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How to Comfort Like Paul in the Face of Tragedy

January 7, 2024 • Pastor Ryan Reynolds • 2 Corinthians 1:8–11, Romans 8:18, Ephesians 6:11

In this sermon, Pastor Ryan Reynolds dives into 2 Corinthians 1:3-11 to reveal how Paul comforted others during times of suffering. Pastor Ryan shares his journey as a young pastor learning how to support grieving families, focusing on the power of presence rather than just words. He introduces the Greek term parakaleo, meaning "to call alongside," and discusses how we can embody hope by being there for others.


Key points covered:

The importance of acknowledging suffering and validating someone's pain.

Why physical, emotional, and spiritual presence matters more than words.

Lessons from Paul's own suffering and how it shaped his ability to comfort others.

How to avoid spiritual clichés when comforting someone in distress.

The role of hope in walking with others through their darkest times.