Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as those sent from God.
2 Corinthians 2:17 NIV
The Apostle Paul boldly defends his ministry and emphasises the importance of preaching with sincerity. He contrasts his approach with those who twist the Word of God for personal gain. Paul speaks with integrity, fully aware that God observes every word spoken in Christ. This unwavering commitment to the truth serves as a model for believers today.
Throughout Scripture, we find examples of both the corruption of God’s Word and the sincerity Paul advocates. For instance, in Jeremiah 23:16, the Lord warns against false prophets who fill people with false hopes and speak visions from their own minds, not from the mouth of God. These deceivers sought personal gain and misled the people. However, those who remained faithful to God, like the prophet Jeremiah, spoke the truth even when it cost them dearly.
Meanwhile, Jesus Christ stands as the ultimate example of preaching with sincerity. In John 14:6, He proclaims, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” Christ’s words reflected divine truth and flowed from a heart of love for humanity. Similarly, the apostles followed this example, proclaiming the Gospel despite persecution and suffering. For example, Paul himself declares in Acts 20:27, “For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God.”
Even in our world today, the temptation to corrupt the Word of God for personal profit or recognition remains. Unfortunately, “prosperity gospel” preachers who promise financial blessings in exchange for donations reflect this distortion. On the other hand, faithful pastors, missionaries, and believers continue preaching with sincerity, often sacrificing comfort and security to share the truth of Christ. Missionaries who serve in remote areas, facing danger and hardship, do so out of love for Christ and a desire to see others come to faith.
Paul’s sincerity stemmed from his deep reverence for God and his awareness of divine accountability. In fact, Galatians 1:10 echoes this truth: “Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.”
Ultimately, 2 Corinthians 2:17 challenges us to reflect on our own motives. Are we preaching with sincerity and truth, or do we seek approval and recognition from others? Indeed, God calls us to a higher standard of integrity, reminding us that we speak not merely to human audiences but in the sight of God and through the power of Christ.
Can this be your testimony—that the Word of God has not been corrupted in your mouth? As believers, we must handle God’s Word with reverence and purity. Therefore, we should strive to be authentic ambassadors of Christ. When we shall stand before God, may we confidently declare that we have spoken His truth with sincerity and love, free from manipulation or deceit.