Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is mighty in you.
The verse promises proof that Christ speaks through His human messenger, a power that is not weak but mighty in those who believe. Those who seek that proof are called to examine themselves whether they are in the faith, to prove themselves, and to recognize that Jesus Christ is in them unless they are disqualified as reprobates. The true messenger is not disqualified, but prays that believers do no evil and do what is honest, and can do nothing against the truth but only for the truth. Ministers must therefore be joined to God, exalt the truth, triumph with the truth, and stand approved in the sight of God.
Since every work must stand the test of judgment, workers must lift the standard high rather than bring it down to a common level, use their talents to labor as successful ministers who go forth weeping bearing precious seed and return with sheaves rejoicing, put on every piece of the armor, work in harmony with fellow workers to advance the work, and work with the Spirit of Christ. They must not by word or action show unbelief in the testimonies over things they do not see clearly, sow a single doubt, or shake the faith of others, for that is the special work of Satan. Such doubting does not bring souls nearer to God, make them stronger in the truth, or increase devotion and piety, as forty years of fruit shows. Those who do it do not become purer, better, or holier, do not bring gold, silver, and precious stones to the foundation that will stand the fires of the last days, and serve Baal and not Jehovah.
When messengers speak by the Spirit of Jesus, God can put words in their mouths that reach the hearts of those opposing them and make clear that their message and standard are higher. The verse was illustrated when Christ's testimony through Luther impressed the assembled leaders, moving some to acknowledge the justice of his cause, convincing others of the truth, and leading still others later to support the Reformation boldly.
The verse promises proof that Christ speaks through His human messenger, a power that is not weak but mighty in those who believe. Those who seek that proof are called to examine themselves whether they are in the faith, to prove themselves, and to recognize that Jesus Christ is in them unless they are disqualified as reprobates. The true messenger is not disqualified, but prays that believers do no evil and do what is honest, and can do nothing against the truth but only for the truth. Ministers must therefore be joined to God, exalt the truth, triumph with the truth, and stand approved in the sight of God.
Since every work must stand the test of judgment, workers must lift the standard high rather than bring it down to a common level, use their talents to labor as successful ministers who go forth weeping bearing precious seed and return with sheaves rejoicing, put on every piece of the armor, work in harmony with fellow workers to advance the work, and work with the Spirit of Christ. They must not by word or action show unbelief in the testimonies over things they do not see clearly, sow a single doubt, or shake the faith of others, for that is the special work of Satan. Such doubting does not bring souls nearer to God, make them stronger in the truth, or increase devotion and piety, as forty years of fruit shows. Those who do it do not become purer, better, or holier, do not bring gold, silver, and precious stones to the foundation that will stand the fires of the last days, and serve Baal and not Jehovah.
When messengers speak by the Spirit of Jesus, God can put words in their mouths that reach the hearts of those opposing them and make clear that their message and standard are higher. The verse was illustrated when Christ's testimony through Luther impressed the assembled leaders, moving some to acknowledge the justice of his cause, convincing others of the truth, and leading still others later to support the Reformation boldly.