2 Corinthians 4: Afflictions and Glory

Read 2 Corinthians Chapter 4

Introduction: In 2 Corinthians 4, the Apostle Paul writes about the trials and perseverance of the Christian ministry. He talks about human weakness contrasted with God’s powerful grace, the revelation of Christ’s glory, and the eternal hope that believers have despite their sufferings in this world. This chapter serves as an encouragement for believers to remain steadfast and faithful, knowing that their struggles are only temporary, but their reward is eternal.

I. The Nature of Gospel Ministry (2 Corinthians 4:1-6)
In these verses, Paul starts by explaining that he does not faint in his ministry because it is rooted in God’s mercy (2 Corinthians 4:1). He points out his integrity, openly stating the truth without deception, denouncing shameful practices (2 Corinthians 4:2). The gospel may be hidden to those who ae lost due to spiritual blindness by the god of this age (2 Corinthians 4:3-4) We read in  Ephesians 6:12, the Bible talks about the spiritual battles believers face in this world, we should put on the whole amour of God. Paul makes it clear that he preaches Christ, not himself, and that God commanded light to shine out of darkness (2 Corinthians 4:5-6). Reading from Genesis 1:3 where God created light, as the light of the day lighted man’s way through the world, so  to does the gospel light our spiritual pathway through life.

II. Treasure in Earthen Vessels (2 Corinthians 4:7-12)
In these verses, the Bible compares our fragile bodies (earthen vessels) with the awesome power of God’s spirit within believers (2 Corinthians 4:7). Despite being hard-pressed, perplexed, persecuted, and struck down, Paul asserts that he is not destroyed because of Christ’s life in him (2 Corinthians 4:8-9). Jesus talked about the troubles for believers in this world in Matthew 5:11-12, which speaks of being persecuted for righteousness’ sake, if you are trying to life the life, you will have troubles in this world. Why, because of the death of Jesus and our faith in it, allowing for light of life to work in believers (2 Corinthians 4:10-11), the devil and the world seems to hate this. Suffering leads to the life of Jesus being manifested in believers’ mortal flesh (2 Corinthians 4:12). We read in Philippians 3:10 about sharing in Christ’s sufferings.

III. Eternal Perspective and Renewal (2 Corinthians 4:13-18)
In theses verses, speaking of faith and speaking out in faith, Paul references Psalm 116:10, relating his conviction and proclamation (2 Corinthians 4:13). He is confident in resurrection with Jesus and being with the Corinthians in His presence (2 Corinthians 4:14; cf. 1 Thessalonians 4:14, belief in Jesus’ resurrection). Paul sees afflictions as a way present the gospel, and to bring about grace that leads to thanksgiving and glory to God (2 Corinthians 4:15). He says that inward renewal happens daily even as the outer self is perishing (2 Corinthians 4:16) In Romans 7:22, believers delight in God’s law inwardly, it is a spring of living water that will never run out. Temporary afflictions prepare an eternal weight of and in glory, so our focus is on the unseen, which is eternal (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). We read in Romans 8:18, that our future glory is not to be compared to present sufferings in this world.

Conclusion: 2 Corinthians 4 give us an inspiring message about the resilience and hope that defines Christian ministry. Paul’s straight forward talk about his struggles, coupled with the unwavering belief in the glory of the eternal, should be a reminder that our earthly challenges pale in comparison to the everlasting joy that awaits. As believers carry this treasure (pearl of great price, Matthew 13:45-46) in their frail bodies, they can be assured that God’s power is made perfect in weakness, even in our own weakness. With this eternal perspective, believers can find daily renewal and have confidence in the resurrection, looking beyond temporary afflictions to the promise of an eternal future with Christ.