After the familiar language of love in 1 Corinthians 13, this week's study turns to 2 Corinthians, where love becomes very practical in Paul's own ministry. Lesson 9, "Love-driven Ministry," is part of our Third Quarter 2026 series on First and Second Corinthians.

In this episode we look at why Paul writes the way he does to a hurting church. He had intended to visit, his plans changed, and an earlier letter had caused pain. Paul answers by assuring the believers of his love and by defending his ministry to those who doubted it, while being open about the trials he had faced. Through it all he describes God as the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort, the One who comforts us so that we can comfort others.

We also talk about what this looks like for leaders today: the value of sincerity and transparency, the balance between planning wisely and staying responsive to God's will, and the relational work of repairing trust when plans change.

If you teach a Sabbath School class, listen for the teaching tip in this episode. Honest, appropriate vulnerability helps people listen and respond, and a few simple ground rules can keep discussion both open and respectful. We share a practical way to invite different perspectives while gently steering the class back to the text when needed.

This lesson is studied during the week of August 22 to 28, 2026, and is taught on Sabbath, August 29.

Next time we continue with Lesson 10, "Authentic Christian Ministry."

Executive Producer: Carolina Conference of Seventh-day Adventists
Producer: Henrique Gomes
Editing: Henrique Gomes
Logo: Becky Carpenter