Paul confessed to using a gospel which relied on faith rather than deeds. Earlier he explained why there would be so much blindness among the world, those lost who are immune to love, forgiveness and reverence.
The blind are veiled from the light that can save them, from hell, from eternal agony versus an eternally joyful life awaiting those who believe and surrender to Jesus Christ.
“7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us.” (2 Corinthians 4:7)
The treasure is the glory of the Lord, the truth about Jesus Christ which dwells within all believers, and through works this treasure increases according to God’s outpouring of blessings.
“8 We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed— 10 always carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body.” (2 Corinthians 4:8-10)
All those who believe in the glory of Christ, and choose to follow in His divine footsteps are subject to challenges beyond imagination. When our bodies weaken, our spirit is strengthened through faith. When our minds are veiled, we find wisdom in the word. Believers can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.
“11 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. 12 So then death is working in us, but life in you.” (2 Corinthians 4:11-12)
Just like Christ Himself died, then rose again, those in Him are also bound for physical death after which believers are given a new, eternal life. Paul describes the sacrifice made by disciples of Jesus as inspired by the death of the lamb, of Christ, as a blessed part of God’s perfect plan.
“13 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, 14 knowing that He who raised up the Lord Jesus will also raise us up with Jesus, and will present us with you.” (2 Corinthians 4:13-14)
Paul declares his ministry holy, not only because it was based on faith in Jesus Christ, but also the knowledge of the truth delivered onto us through the gospel. This truth contains a promise, that God, who brought Jesus back from the dead, will also resurrect those who believe in the divinity of Christ.
“15 For all things are for your sakes, that grace, having spread through the many, may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God.” (2 Corinthians 4:15)
Paul calls on the Corinthians to spread the joy as they fulfill God’s mission for their lives, to advance the gospel and share the truth about Jesus Christ. That a man lived a perfect life and died for the sins of mankind. He shed His blood on the cross and died so we could live. Forgiven, freed from sin, through faith Christ believers are saved! Let us pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Paul,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
