Throughout this letter Paul has been defending his leadership from false teachers who undermined his apostleship and at the same time has had to address serious divisions abs conduct in the Church. He now draws things to a close.
“Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.”
2 Corinthians 13:11
His final words to his loved Church are encouragements still today. They are the basis for any Christian community.
Let there be joy.
This isn’t some superficial happiness. But it is knowing God is present in everything we face.
Mend broken relationships.
Restoration never just happens over time. It requires effort, humility and commitment.
Encourage everyone.
It means to come alongside someone to comfort, exhort or strengthen them and even a community marked by division can begin to do this.
Keep the main thing the main thing.
Having one mind means to let go of secondary issues that will divide and focus on the same fundamental perspective and purpose.
Actively pursue harmony.
Living in peace is not simply the absence of problems and conflict. It is to live in such a way that though we are all different we compliment one another in the sight of God.
When those 5 commands are in the Church then there is a powerful promise:
“And the God of love and peace will be with you.”
Missions Paul 