The Character of a Leader: Lessons from Paul’s Conduct
Base Text: 2 Corinthians 7:2
Proposition: Christian conduct must be blameless before God and men, following the example of the Apostle Paul, who lived with integrity in all areas of his life.
Introduction
The Apostle Paul was a man of remarkable character. He wasn't just a theologian or a traveler; he was a man of transparent, honest, and sincere conduct. He was so confident in the work the Holy Spirit had done in him that he boldly exhorted believers: "Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ" (1 Corinthians 11:1).
In 2 Corinthians 7:2, Paul opens his heart to a church that had often criticized him. He presents three qualities that define his Christian walk:
1. He had wronged no one.
2. He had corrupted no one.
3. He had taken advantage of no one.
If we desire to please God and leave a lasting testimony, these three pillars must characterize our lives as well.
I. A Conscience That Has Wronged No One
"Open your hearts to us. We have wronged no one..." (2 Corinthians 7:2)
Paul begins by asking for a place in the Corinthians' hearts. He had already opened his heart to them (2 Corinthians 6:11–13), and his conscience was clear because he had not caused them injury or harm.
How do we "wrong" or "offend" others today?
• With our Words: Through corrupt language, gossip, or lies (Ephesians 4:25, 29).
• With our Actions: Through behavior or lifestyle choices that physically or emotionally damage others (1 Thessalonians 4:6).
• With our Doctrine: By teaching error or causing others to stumble in their faith (Matthew 18:7).
The Heart of the Matter: Even when we have "liberty" to do something, we should abstain if it might cause a brother to stumble (Romans 14:20–21). Our goal is to live with such care that we can say, like Paul, "I have wronged no one."
II. A Life That Has Corrupted No One
"...we have corrupted no one..." (2 Corinthians 7:2)
To "corrupt" means to contaminate, profane, or lead someone into moral decay. Paul was careful that his influence always led people toward holiness, never away from it.
• The Poison of Bitterness: One of the fastest ways to corrupt a community is to let a root of bitterness spring up, which "defiles many" (Hebrews 12:15).
• The Power of Example: Paul was a "pattern" of good works. He told Timothy to be an example in word, conduct, love, spirit, faith, and purity (1 Timothy 4:12).
• The Law of Influence: We must remember that "evil company corrupts good habits" (1 Corinthians 15:33). Conversely, a godly life can actually win souls without a word—like a wife winning an unbelieving husband through her pure conduct (1 Peter 3:1).
Application: Our lives preach louder than our lips. Every day, our conduct is either building someone up in Christ or corrupting their view of Him. Which is it for you?
III. An Integrity That Has Exploited No One
"...we have cheated no one." (2 Corinthians 7:2)
In some translations, this says, "we have taken advantage of no one." Paul was never a "spiritual mercenary." He never used his position for personal or financial gain.
• Transparency in Finances: Even though Paul had the right to be supported by the gospel, he often surrendered that right to avoid being a burden (1 Corinthians 9:15). He was meticulously careful in handling money so that no one could find fault in him (2 Corinthians 8:20–21).
• No Covetousness: He could look the elders of Ephesus in the eye and say, "I have coveted no one’s silver or gold or apparel" (Acts 20:33).
• Faithfulness in Everything: God demands that we be found faithful and just in our dealings. We should never abuse hospitality or exploit the kindness of others for our own benefit (Lucas 10:7).
See Also
- Presenting a Defense of Our Hope
- Responding Like Jesus: The Master Teacher’s Method
- The Snakes in the Desert: From Murmuring to Mercy
Conclusion
Paul’s conduct is a mirror for every one of us today. To imitate Paul is ultimately to imitate Christ, the only one who truly lived a life of perfect integrity.
When we live a blameless life, we don't just "look good"—we glorify God and strengthen the witness of the Church. Let us resolve today to:
1. Stop offending others with our words or attitudes.
2. Stop corrupting others with bitterness or compromise.
3. Stop taking advantage of others for our own gain.
Final Thought: If your life was the only "Bible" someone ever read, what would they learn about Jesus? Let us live as lights in a dark world, following the path of integrity.
