20 June 2021 is the Fourth Sunday after Pentecost and the main reading for today is from 2 Corinthians 6:1-13.

The headline for today’s post is ‘on the contrary’ to how the apostle Paul (the writer of this New Testament letter to the church at Corinth) approaches his falling out with the church he had founded. But the sermon for today does indeed include several ‘tips’ on how best to turn a disagreement into a feud…

Below, you will find the main scripture, then a video of today’s service including all readings, prayers and Rev. Geoff McKee’s sermon.

Main reading for today

2 Corinthians 6:1-13 (New International Version)
6 As God’s co-workers we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain. 2 For he says,

“In the time of my favour I heard you,
and in the day of salvation I helped you.”

I tell you, now is the time of God’s favour, now is the day of salvation.

Paul’s Hardships
3 We put no stumbling block in anyone’s path, so that our ministry will not be discredited. 4 Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses; 5 in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger; 6 in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love; 7 in truthful speech and in the power of God; with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left; 8 through glory and dishonor, bad report and good report; genuine, yet regarded as impostors; 9 known, yet regarded as unknown; dying, and yet we live on; beaten, and yet not killed; 10 sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything.

11 We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians, and opened wide our hearts to you. 12 We are not withholding our affection from you, but you are withholding yours from us. 13 As a fair exchange—I speak as to my children—open wide your hearts also.

Video of the service from St James’ – 20 June 2021

I read the following about how to turn a disagreement into a feud: Firstly, be sure to develop and maintain a healthy fear of conflict, letting your own feelings build up so you are in an explosive frame of mind. Secondly…

rev. geoff mckee

Musical Selection