“2 Corinthians 4”

Tuesday, April 04, 2017

This chapter opens with a statement of Paul’s confidence in the gospel message and, therefore, in his own ministry. Although false teachers were accusing him of deception and craftiness, it was he who had renounced such duplicity and had openly proclaimed the truth.

He places the blame on “the god of this age” (that is, Satan), who had blinded the minds of many so that they did not recognize the truth when the apostle preached it. Paul had faith that the light of God’s word would penetrate the darkness and be clearly seen by those who had honest hearts.

Paul discusses further the reality of hardships faced by those who would stand up for God and His will. There will always be opposition from Satan and those who serve him. But to a person of faith, there is no choice - we must speak. And when we do, God will be glorified.

This great apostle had been mistreated and abused by false brothers. He describes himself as hard-pressed, perplexed, persecuted, and struck down. But he wanted these first century brothers to know that he would continue “carrying about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus.”

No matter what the hardship (verses 8-10), we must tell others of what the Lord has done for us. He wants us to understand that, those who have “the same spirit of faith,” would continue on speaking God’s will.

As the chapter ends, Paul reminds them of “the big picture” and encourages them to adopt an eternal perspective, not an earthly, short-sighted one. The things we can see are temporary, but Paul was dealing with things that were eternal. He makes it very clear that he considers the mistreatment he has experienced as “our light affliction, which is but for a moment.” He would press on toward those things “which are not seen,” knowing that God has a reward for the faithful.

--Roger Hillis

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