Instead, just as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, so we speak, not to please men, but rather God, who examines our hearts.
Why is there so much fear in us in conjunction with talking to others about the gospel? Could it be an indication that we fear man more than God? I’ll leave room for the fact that there may be some other extenuating circumstance or concern but I’m afraid it really ends up being some level of our ‘seeking to please men more than seeking to please God.’ We have God’s approval in Christ Jesus and yet often find ourselves wallowing about seeking the approval of men. What gives?
Paul’s motivation has nothing to do with pleasing other people – even those closest to him. He seeks to please Father God and this keeps him focused on his mission and moving forward in his faith. Ultimately, we must seek to please God for it is His pleasure that is primary and His opinion that matters. He has the power to grant life or death and loves us so deeply that He has granted us His life. Why would we worry at all about those who have no such power over us or love for us?
Who cares about the approval of the serfs when we have the love of the King? (Timothy Keller)
Rpst, 04.13.2020
Ventanas 