Throughout this letter, Paul has been encouraging the Corinthians to move from spiritual adolescence into greater spiritual maturity, to move from a focus on "me" to a focus on "us" and God. As Paul concludes this letter, he gives a very practical way to live what they have learned — he challenges them to put aside money every week for a large gift for a church in need and he exhorts them to receive and support Paul's ministry coworkers. In addition to this challenge, he gives them one final exhortation -- to stand firm in the faith, and to do everything with love. This final encouragement is a perfect summary of every answer that Paul has provided to their many questions. Let us stand firm and do everything with love.

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