SCRIPTURE: 2 CORINTHIANS 4
“We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” (2 Corinthians 4:8-9)
“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:18)
TREASURES IN JARS OF CLAY (vs. 1-18)
- The Gospel is the light that shines in our hearts giving us knowledge of the glory of God (v. 6)
- The Gospel enables the surpassing power from God to give us life that is at work in our mortal bodies (v. 7, 12)
- The Gospel gives us hope to withstand momentary troubles and achieve an eternal glory that is unseen (vs. 16, 16-17)
EVIDENCES THAT PROVED THE SINCERITY OF PAUL’S MINISTRY:
- He determined to preach despite of dangers without given up (v. 1)
- He preached the truth without adulterating the Word of God (vs 2-4)
- He was humble to be the servant for Jesus and give all the glory to God (vs. 5-7)
- He was willing to suffer for Christ – being hard pressed, perplexed, persecuted and struck down (vs. 8-11)
- He had an unselfish spirit willing to go anywhere and endure anything for the good of the church (v, 6, 11-15)
- He had a strong faith with the eternity value in view (vs. 16-19)
THOUGHTS:
- Preaching should be focused on Christ not on the preacher.
- Being a follower of Christ requires us to save others even if they do not measure up to our expectation.
- The message of salvation is a treasure in Jar of clay. Its contents is priceless because it has God’s power dwelling in us.
- Trials, sufferings, persecutions and discouragement are not the end of rope but rather the beginning of hope. They are opportunity for us to demonstrate God’s power in us and through us.
- When faced with problems in our relationship or work, never lose heart or quit. Instead, concentrate on the inner strength that came from the Holy Spirit. Renew your commitment to serve God in order to claim your eternal reward in the future.