2 Corinthians 4
In this chapter, Paul continues to address the Corinthian church, emphasizing his ministry's challenges and the resilience and hope provided by his faith. He contrasts the transient nature of earthly troubles with the eternal glory they prepare believers for, underscoring his message with a reflection on the nature of spiritual enlightenment and resurrection hope.
2 Corinthians 4:1 (NKJV) Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we do not lose heart.
Paul reflects on the responsibility of his ministry, which he carries out by the mercy of God. This divine backing gives him the strength and determination not to be discouraged or give up, despite the challenges he faces.
2 Corinthians 4:2 (NKJV) But we have renounced the hidden things of shame, not walking in craftiness nor handling the word of God deceitfully, but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.
Paul insists on integrity in his ministry, rejecting dishonest practices and the manipulation of God's word. He emphasizes transparency and truth, aiming to appeal to the clear conscience of his listeners and remain accountable before God.
2 Corinthians 4:3-4 (NKJV) But even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them.
These verses acknowledge that not everyone accepts the gospel; to some, it remains hidden or veiled. Paul attributes this blindness to the influence of Satan, whom he calls the "god of this age," suggesting that spiritual blindness is a deliberate obstruction to prevent people from seeing the truth of Christ's glory.
2 Corinthians 4:5 (NKJV) For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus’ sake.
Paul clarifies that his ministry's focus is not on personal gain or prominence but on proclaiming Jesus Christ as Lord. He portrays himself and his fellow workers as servants to the Corinthians for the sake of Jesus, emphasizing service over self-promotion.
2 Corinthians 4:6 (NKJV) For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
Drawing an analogy from the Genesis account of creation, Paul describes how God has initiated a new creation by illuminating believers' hearts. This enlightenment brings knowledge of God’s glory, as seen in Jesus, transforming believers from the inside out.
2 Corinthians 4:7 (NKJV) But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.
The "treasure" refers to the divine light and knowledge mentioned in the previous verse, housed in "earthen vessels"—a metaphor for human frailty. This stark contrast highlights that the extraordinary power evident in their ministry is from God, not from any human strength.
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 (NKJV) We are hard pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed—
Paul describes the paradoxical nature of his ministry, where despite severe trials and suffering, he and his team are not utterly defeated. These descriptions emphasize resilience and divine support amidst adversity, reinforcing the triumph of spiritual power over physical affliction.
2 Corinthians 4:10-11 (NKJV) Always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus’ sake, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh.
These verses explain how the apostles' sufferings mirror the death of Jesus, implying that just as Jesus' life was made visible through His resurrection, the apostles' endurance of suffering serves to reveal Jesus' life and power in them, even amid mortal danger.
2 Corinthians 4:12 (NKJV) So then death is working in us, but life in you.
Paul concludes this thought by stating that while he faces constant risk and death in his apostolic work, it results in spiritual life and benefit for the Corinthians. His trials serve the purpose of bringing others to life through the gospel.
2 Corinthians 4:13 (NKJV) And since we have the same spirit of faith, according to what is written, “I believed and therefore I spoke,” we also believe and therefore speak,
Paul quotes from Psalm 116:10 to highlight that his boldness in proclaiming the gospel comes from the same spirit of faith. Just as the psalmist believed and spoke, Paul’s faith compels him to speak out, despite the hardships he endures.
2 Corinthians 4:14 (NKJV) Knowing that He who raised up the Lord Jesus will also raise us up with Jesus, and will present us with you.
Paul expresses confidence in the resurrection, knowing that just as God raised Jesus from the dead, He will also raise believers. This hope of resurrection assures Paul that his suffering is not in vain, as it is connected to eternal life.
2 Corinthians 4:15 (NKJV) For all things are for your sakes, that grace, having spread through the many, may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God.
Paul views his ministry, including his sufferings, as being for the benefit of the Corinthians. As more people experience God’s grace through the gospel, this leads to greater thanksgiving and praise to God, thus bringing glory to Him.
2 Corinthians 4:16 (NKJV) Therefore we do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day.
Despite the physical decay and suffering Paul experiences, he maintains hope because of the constant renewal happening within him. His spiritual strength and faith are continually being renewed, even as his body weakens.
2 Corinthians 4:17 (NKJV) For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory,
Paul describes his present sufferings as "light" and temporary when compared to the eternal glory they are producing. His afflictions are not meaningless; they are preparing him for a future glory that far outweighs the pain.
2 Corinthians 4:18 (NKJV) While we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.
Paul concludes the chapter by urging believers to focus on the unseen, eternal realities rather than on visible, temporary circumstances. The sufferings and challenges of this life are fleeting, but the eternal glory of God and the rewards of faith are everlasting.