Scripture Reading: 2 Corinthians 1:15-20

Trust One Another

Intro.

1. Trust is the sign of a mature, thoughtful, confident, and secure relationship (cf. marriage, Prov. 31:11).

2. Someone was spreading rumors and lies about Paul in the Corinthian church, 2 Cor. 10:10-11; 11:7, 16-21.

3. This destructive, sinful conduct had reached a point that some of the Corinthians no longer trusted Paul. They were timid to “open their hearts” to the apostle and were falsely accusing him, 2 Cor. 6:11-13; 7:2-4.

I. OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH CHRIST CAUSES US TO COMPLETELY TRUST HIM, 2 Tim. 1:12; cf. Heb. 2:11-13 (brethren).

A. We Trust Jesus Because He Always Speaks the Truth, John 14:6.

1. Likewise, trust among Christians must be based on unwavering integrity, 2 Cor. 1:15-20.

2. Speak the truth in love to encourage trust, Eph. 4:25 (15). Be even-handed (a sign of respect).

B. We Trust Jesus Because He Always Loves Us, 1 John 4:7-11.

1. An atmosphere of trust grows out of humbly serving one another, not pridefully demanding what we want, Phil. 2:1-4.

2. Truth and Love: Trust exists where these abound.

II. THINGS THAT PROMOTE AND HARM TRUST AMONG US.

A. Our Commonality in Christ Ought to Secure Trust Between Us, Gal. 3:28; 1 Cor. 1:9-10, 13.

Trust is Promoted By Our…

Trust is Harmed By…

Common faith, Titus 1:4

Going beyond the faith,
1 Cor. 4:6; 1 John 2:19

Common mind, Phil. 2:19-21

Self-seeking, Phil. 2:21;
James 3:14-16

Common service, Phil. 2:22; Col. 3:24

Serving selfish interests,
Phil. 2:21

Common citizenry, Phil. 3:20

Worldliness, 1 John 2:15

III. NECESSARY THINGS FOR TRUST TO THRIVE, Col. 3:12-15.

-The following are present when trust exists.

-Make application to friendship, marriage, and the church.

A. Communication. No communication – No trust (Eph. 4:25, 31).

B. Unity of Action (work together). No work – No trust (Amos 3:3).

C. Friendship. No friendship – No trust (Prov. 27:6; Phil. 2:4).

D. Compassion and Mercy. No trust – No mercy (Col. 3:13; Matt. 18:21-22).

E. Peace. No trust – No peace (Col. 3:15).

Conclusion

1. Trust generates and galvanizes confidence in one another which is crucial to working together and having successful relationships:

a. With God in Christ (Matt. 11:28-30; Gal. 3:26-29), Psalm 34:8; 2:12.

b. With spouses (the home) (Eph. 5:33).

c. With brethren (the church) (1 Cor. 12:25-27).

2. Strengthen our trust by rejoicing in Christ’s truth, love, and our common faith in Him.

By: Joe R. Price

Posted August 22, 2022