Verses 1-4
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We ought to have joy when we think about our fellow believers. And because we are family in Christ, when one person has joy it helps others to have joy also! But if we make those close to us sad, it will make us sad too.
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Remember that your emotions affect others, and other people's emotions will affect you to some degree. Be careful how you treat others, walk in love, and don't desire to cause sorrow where it isn't necessary.
Verses 5-9
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The man who had been excommunicated (see 1 Corinthians 5) had apparently repented, and Paul encouraged the church to forgive him and receive him back.
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When a person falls into sin, and they repent, warmly receive them back, and put forth extra effort to comfort them and remind them of how loved they are. Otherwise, they can become harmfully grieved.
Verses 10-11
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Always forgive! If someone is weak enough to give into the temptation to not forgive, then they are fair game for the enemy, who will not miss opportunity. He preys on the weak (1 Peter 5:8).
Verses 12-13
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Even though Paul had increasing opportunity to preach the gospel, he could not settle without partnership with Titus—a fellow believer.
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No matter how much opportunity we have, or how many exciting things we are able to do, we cannot go without relationships and partnerships with other believers. Don't be a lone wolf!
Verses 14-16
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Christ has the victory, and when we spread the knowledge of the Word, it is like the fragrance that reminds of His victory.
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Believers find the Word pleasant and comforting, because it reminds them that they have eternal life. But unbelievers are often repulsed by the gospel, because it promises them condemnation for their rejection of it.
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Still, spread the knowledge of Christ “in every place” because all kinds of people need to hear the Word.
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Verse 17
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As such, don't use the Word as a means of personal gain, as to try to win favor from people; and don't water it down or change it to accommodate people's feelings (1 Thessalonians 2:4-5).
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From a sincere heart, without any hidden agendas, speak the truth in order to save souls and please God! Don't worry about pleasing people!