Our guest, Dr. Rock LaGioia, explained and challenged us to cultivate healthy relationships. Healthy relationships demand real connection, we must go beyond the superficial. You also have to genuinely care for others. Finally, you respond to others, you must genuinely listen and engage. These specific traits were true of Paul in his ministry with the Corinthians, despite their response to Paul. These relational traits must characterize the church for the church to truly be the community of believers that Jesus intended the church to be. 

Throughout 2 Corinthians Paul addresses the impact of suffering on ministry, life and the message; the complexity of human relationships at times - the suffering they can cause and the joy of being reconciled when we obey and follow the guidance of the Spirit in our lives.

The church was not designed or created by humanity; it was designed and instituted by God to fulfill his plan for his followers on earth. It is paramount that we understand the nature of the church, the priorities that should characterize the church and the character of the individuals that compose the church. We must ask and understand the answer to the question: what is the church? Therefore, the church is a committed fellowship of believers in Jesus, who passionately live their lives together, striving to live and advance the magnificent truths of their Savior, who’s example perfectly establishes, directs & prioritizes their daily lives.