Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God. 2 Corinthians 4:2
“But the Lord says, “No household servant can serve as the slave of two masters.” If we wish to serve as slaves of both God and wealth, it is of no use to us. “For what is the advantage of acquiring the whole world while forfeiting your life?” But this age and the age to come are two enemies. This one preaches adultery, depravity, avarice, and deceit, but that one renounces these things. We cannot, therefore, be friends of both. We must renounce this world to obtain that one.”
Clement of Rome (A.D. 35-99) in his Second Letter to the Corinthians 6:1-5.
It was great to see two former students, then my parents, and lastly, my brother and his wife, yesterday. We enjoyed sweet fellowship.
If there was a common thread to all my meetings today it was this: we are living not for this world, but for the world to come. We have renounced the drive or mindset of this world to “acquire” for ourselves and replaced it with a perspective that aims to “bless” others.
As I spend time reading the letters of Paul to the Corinthians alongside the letters of Clement of Rome to the same church 30 years later, certain themes stand out like “renouncing former ways.”
What about you? Do you have any ways or wealth that needs renouncing?