II Corinthians 4: Treasures in Jars of Clay
Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;
But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, 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.
But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:
In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.
For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.
We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;
Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;
Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.
For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.
So then death worketh in us, but life in you.
We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak;
Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you.
For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.
For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;
While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.
II Corinthians 4 delves into the heart of Paul's ministry, revealing his unwavering commitment to spreading the gospel despite immense suffering and opposition. This chapter offers profound insights into the nature of Christian ministry, the power of God amidst human weakness, and the hope that sustains believers through trials. Understanding II Corinthians 4 is key to grasping the essence of Paul's apostolic calling and its relevance to our lives today. This chapter emphasizes the transformative power of seeing God's glory in Christ, a vision that some are sadly blinded to by sin and the influence of the world.
A Ministry of Truth and Transparency (II Corinthians 4:1-2)
Paul begins by affirming the integrity of his ministry. Receiving this ministry through God's mercy, Paul declares he will not lose heart (II Corinthians 4:1). He resolutely rejects any form of deceit or manipulation of God's Word, contrasting himself with those who might seek to distort the truth for personal gain. Instead, Paul and his co-workers present the truth openly, inviting scrutiny and appealing to the conscience of all (II Corinthians 4:2). This transparency is a hallmark of genuine Christian ministry, reflecting a commitment to honesty and accountability before God and others. Paul’s actions provide a model for believers today, urging us to live lives of integrity and truthfulness, allowing our actions to be a testament to the gospel we proclaim.
The Veil Over Unbelievers' Eyes (II Corinthians 4:3-6)
Paul acknowledges the reality that not everyone accepts the gospel. He explains that the good news is "veiled" to those who are perishing (II Corinthians 4:3). This spiritual blindness is not accidental; it is actively perpetuated by "the god of this age," Satan, who blinds the minds of unbelievers to prevent them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God (II Corinthians 4:4). This verse serves as a stark reminder of the spiritual battle raging around us and the powerful forces at work to hinder people from embracing the truth.
However, Paul emphasizes that he and his colleagues do not preach themselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and themselves as servants for Jesus' sake (II Corinthians 4:5). The focus is always on Christ and His glory. God, who commanded light to shine out of darkness, has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ (II Corinthians 4:6). Just as God spoke light into existence at creation, He illuminates darkened hearts with the knowledge of His glory revealed in Jesus. This experiential knowledge of God, accessed only through Jesus, is the ultimate treasure.
Treasures in Jars of Clay (II Corinthians 4:7)
Here, Paul introduces a powerful metaphor: believers are like "jars of clay" holding a priceless treasure (II Corinthians 4:7). The treasure is the knowledge of God experienced through Christ, the very light of the gospel. Clay jars were common, fragile, and easily broken vessels in Paul's time. By comparing believers to these jars, Paul highlights our human weakness and vulnerability. Yet, within these frail containers resides the extraordinary power of God. This contrast underscores that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. It's not about who we are, but whom we know.
This image is incredibly encouraging. It reminds us that God doesn't call the qualified; He qualifies the called. Our imperfections and weaknesses don't disqualify us from being used by God. In fact, it is often through our weaknesses that God's power is most clearly displayed.
Affliction, Perseverance, and the Power of God (II Corinthians 4:8-12)
To illustrate how God's power is manifested through frail vessels, Paul describes the hardships he and his companions endured: afflicted, perplexed, persecuted, and struck down (II Corinthians 4:8-9). Yet, in spite of these trials, they were not crushed, driven to despair, abandoned, or destroyed. How is this possible? Only through the sustaining hand of God.
Paul further explains that they always carry in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in their bodies (II Corinthians 4:10). God allows us to experience problems so that the divine life of Jesus is manifested in our mortal flesh (II Corinthians 4:11). This does not mean that following Jesus guarantees a life free from complications. Rather, it means that even in the midst of suffering, the life and power of Christ are evident in our perseverance and resilience. The challenges we face become opportunities for God to demonstrate His strength in our weakness.
Speaking in Faith (II Corinthians 4:13)
In the midst of hardship, Paul declares, "I believed, therefore I spoke" (II Corinthians 4:13). This verse emphasizes the importance of speaking God's Word into our situations. Our words should align with our faith, reflecting the truths of Scripture rather than being dictated by our circumstances. When experiencing difficulties, we should remember and declare God’s promises, praising Him even in the midst of trials.
Resurrection Hope and Thanksgiving (II Corinthians 4:14-15)
Paul expresses unwavering confidence that the God who raised Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus (II Corinthians 4:14). This resurrection hope is a cornerstone of Christian faith, providing assurance that our earthly struggles are temporary and that a glorious eternity awaits us. When we truly acknowledge this provision of grace, it leads to increased thanksgiving and brings glory to God (II Corinthians 4:15).
Renewed Inwardly, Despite Outward Decay (II Corinthians 4:16)
Therefore, Paul declares, we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day (II Corinthians 4:16). This is a powerful reminder that even as our physical bodies age and decline, our spiritual lives can be growing stronger and more vibrant. Believers should be growing spiritually younger (i.e., healthier) as they grow physically older. We are being made fit for our future heavenly home, and this happens through a process that comes “day by day.”
An Eternal Perspective (II Corinthians 4:17-18)
Paul characterizes his troubles as "momentary light affliction" (II Corinthians 4:17). While his suffering was undoubtedly intense and prolonged, he viewed it through the lens of eternity. He understood that these afflictions were producing for him "an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison."
This perspective is crucial for navigating the challenges of life. Paul encourages us to not focus on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal (II Corinthians 4:18). By fixing our eyes on the eternal realities of God's kingdom, we gain the ability to endure present suffering with hope and joy. An eternal perspective gives the believer the ability to handle the struggles of this life.
Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;
But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, 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.
But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:
In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake.
For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.
We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;
Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;
Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.
For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.
So then death worketh in us, but life in you.
We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak;
Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you.
For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.
For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;
While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.
II Corinthians 4 delves into the heart of Paul's ministry, revealing his unwavering commitment to spreading the gospel despite immense suffering and opposition. This chapter offers profound insights into the nature of Christian ministry, the power of God amidst human weakness, and the hope that sustains believers through trials. Understanding II Corinthians 4 is key to grasping the essence of Paul's apostolic calling and its relevance to our lives today. This chapter emphasizes the transformative power of seeing God's glory in Christ, a vision that some are sadly blinded to by sin and the influence of the world.
A Ministry of Truth and Transparency (II Corinthians 4:1-2)
Paul begins by affirming the integrity of his ministry. Receiving this ministry through God's mercy, Paul declares he will not lose heart (II Corinthians 4:1). He resolutely rejects any form of deceit or manipulation of God's Word, contrasting himself with those who might seek to distort the truth for personal gain. Instead, Paul and his co-workers present the truth openly, inviting scrutiny and appealing to the conscience of all (II Corinthians 4:2). This transparency is a hallmark of genuine Christian ministry, reflecting a commitment to honesty and accountability before God and others. Paul’s actions provide a model for believers today, urging us to live lives of integrity and truthfulness, allowing our actions to be a testament to the gospel we proclaim.
The Veil Over Unbelievers' Eyes (II Corinthians 4:3-6)
Paul acknowledges the reality that not everyone accepts the gospel. He explains that the good news is "veiled" to those who are perishing (II Corinthians 4:3). This spiritual blindness is not accidental; it is actively perpetuated by "the god of this age," Satan, who blinds the minds of unbelievers to prevent them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God (II Corinthians 4:4). This verse serves as a stark reminder of the spiritual battle raging around us and the powerful forces at work to hinder people from embracing the truth.
However, Paul emphasizes that he and his colleagues do not preach themselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and themselves as servants for Jesus' sake (II Corinthians 4:5). The focus is always on Christ and His glory. God, who commanded light to shine out of darkness, has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ (II Corinthians 4:6). Just as God spoke light into existence at creation, He illuminates darkened hearts with the knowledge of His glory revealed in Jesus. This experiential knowledge of God, accessed only through Jesus, is the ultimate treasure.
Treasures in Jars of Clay (II Corinthians 4:7)
Here, Paul introduces a powerful metaphor: believers are like "jars of clay" holding a priceless treasure (II Corinthians 4:7). The treasure is the knowledge of God experienced through Christ, the very light of the gospel. Clay jars were common, fragile, and easily broken vessels in Paul's time. By comparing believers to these jars, Paul highlights our human weakness and vulnerability. Yet, within these frail containers resides the extraordinary power of God. This contrast underscores that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. It's not about who we are, but whom we know.
This image is incredibly encouraging. It reminds us that God doesn't call the qualified; He qualifies the called. Our imperfections and weaknesses don't disqualify us from being used by God. In fact, it is often through our weaknesses that God's power is most clearly displayed.
Affliction, Perseverance, and the Power of God (II Corinthians 4:8-12)
To illustrate how God's power is manifested through frail vessels, Paul describes the hardships he and his companions endured: afflicted, perplexed, persecuted, and struck down (II Corinthians 4:8-9). Yet, in spite of these trials, they were not crushed, driven to despair, abandoned, or destroyed. How is this possible? Only through the sustaining hand of God.
Paul further explains that they always carry in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in their bodies (II Corinthians 4:10). God allows us to experience problems so that the divine life of Jesus is manifested in our mortal flesh (II Corinthians 4:11). This does not mean that following Jesus guarantees a life free from complications. Rather, it means that even in the midst of suffering, the life and power of Christ are evident in our perseverance and resilience. The challenges we face become opportunities for God to demonstrate His strength in our weakness.
Speaking in Faith (II Corinthians 4:13)
In the midst of hardship, Paul declares, "I believed, therefore I spoke" (II Corinthians 4:13). This verse emphasizes the importance of speaking God's Word into our situations. Our words should align with our faith, reflecting the truths of Scripture rather than being dictated by our circumstances. When experiencing difficulties, we should remember and declare God’s promises, praising Him even in the midst of trials.
Resurrection Hope and Thanksgiving (II Corinthians 4:14-15)
Paul expresses unwavering confidence that the God who raised Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus (II Corinthians 4:14). This resurrection hope is a cornerstone of Christian faith, providing assurance that our earthly struggles are temporary and that a glorious eternity awaits us. When we truly acknowledge this provision of grace, it leads to increased thanksgiving and brings glory to God (II Corinthians 4:15).
Renewed Inwardly, Despite Outward Decay (II Corinthians 4:16)
Therefore, Paul declares, we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day (II Corinthians 4:16). This is a powerful reminder that even as our physical bodies age and decline, our spiritual lives can be growing stronger and more vibrant. Believers should be growing spiritually younger (i.e., healthier) as they grow physically older. We are being made fit for our future heavenly home, and this happens through a process that comes “day by day.”
An Eternal Perspective (II Corinthians 4:17-18)
Paul characterizes his troubles as "momentary light affliction" (II Corinthians 4:17). While his suffering was undoubtedly intense and prolonged, he viewed it through the lens of eternity. He understood that these afflictions were producing for him "an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison."
This perspective is crucial for navigating the challenges of life. Paul encourages us to not focus on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal (II Corinthians 4:18). By fixing our eyes on the eternal realities of God's kingdom, we gain the ability to endure present suffering with hope and joy. An eternal perspective gives the believer the ability to handle the struggles of this life.