The fruit or lack of it in our ministries is ever before us. The truth is seen among both clergy and laity. Over a period of time it is there for others to observe and most likely evaluate. Actually, generations and centuries speak to what we have done or not done for Christ and his body, the church — visible and invisible.

Paul is inspirationally confident in the product he has labored to bring about. His work evidences a writing on their hearts, not written in ink but with the Spirit of the Living God. The proof is there. All anyone needs to do is look carefully. Those he has influenced are wonderfully valuable letters to the world.

It should be obvious that those professing Christ as Savior and Lord are desirous in making disciples for him. Sadly, it is not always that obvious! For re…