Benediction

Words are important, very important. The final words are often the ones most remembered. They are sometimes a summary or a reiteration of the most important issue.

Apostle Paul has a final greeting to the Corinthians church. Paul loved this church. Paul founded this church. In 2 Corinthians, Paul has much to say to this beloved church including encouragement and accommodation, exposing false prophets and reprimands for those refusing his authority and correction.

In the last chapter of this book, we see Apostle Paul pins his final words in this book. This is Apostles Paul’s benediction says,

“May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ

and the love of God

and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit

be with you all.”

The grace of Christ may be experienced through his nearness, comfort, power, presence, etc. That this body would experience the fatherly love of God, whether they have been blessed by a Godly father or not. Also, the continual and deepening relationship of the Holy Spirit would be theirs too. In closing, the great apostle says, “be with you all.” Even though this sounds pretty southern to me, it is for all that believe in this marvelous trinity: the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. This benediction is powerful with words that will encourage us that we are never alone when we are in fellowship with the trinity.

Pastor Ruth Kaunley