Therefore show these men the proof of your love and the reason for our pride in you, so that the churches can see it. 2 Cor. 8:24
Paul, throughout his letters, preached the oneness of Christ across racial divides. Racial tensions between Jews and Gentiles were a reality and very deadly at this time. Paul taught there was great virtue in doing good for those that persecuted you and asked often for Gentile Christians to set aside money for oppressed Jews, They went above and beyond the call. As a result, Paul had to delegate Titus and two other associates to manage the churches of Macedonia and their offerings in an ethical and responsible way. This verse is a call to accept these emissaries in a way that will continue the work of the gospel.
There’s another subtle message. Paul says, “Love those I love…… If you love me, then love them too.” He is echoing Christ’s call to love one another….If you love Me, love those I love.
We have accepted His grace and we love Christ. So now we are asked to love those He loves. We didn’t earn Christ’s love upon Salvation. We were freely GIVEN salvation because of His love. Our highest calling; to LOVE those that Christ loves, basically…..everyone!
Love,
Gretchen