2 Corinthians - Chapter 4

2 Corinthians 4.1 Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; 2 Corinthians 4.2 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. 2 Corinthians 4.3 But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: 2 Corinthians 4.4 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. 2 Corinthians 4.5 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake. 2 Corinthians 4.6 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. 2 Corinthians 4.7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. 2 Corinthians 4.8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 2 Corinthians 4.9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; 2 Corinthians 4.10 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. 2 Corinthians 4.11 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. 2 Corinthians 4.12 So then death worketh in us, but life in you. 2 Corinthians 4.13 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; 2 Corinthians 4.14 Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you. 2 Corinthians 4.15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God. 2 Corinthians 4.16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. 2 Corinthians 4.17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; 2 Corinthians 4.18 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.

2 Corinthians : Chapter 4

Reflections on 2 Corinthians Chapter 4

Chapter 4 of Saint Paul's letter to the Corinthians invites us to meditate on the treasure contained in earthen vessels. The apostle Paul, faced with difficulties, shows us how to maintain hope in the midst of trials. This inspiring text highlights Paul's perseverance in the face of affliction and the manifestation of God's power through human weakness.

Central Themes of the Chapter

This chapter addresses profound themes such as the light of the Gospel, inner renewal, and eternal perspective. Paul contrasts momentary, light suffering with eternal glory, teaching us that present trials prepare for a far greater reward. Related Scriptures To enrich our understanding of the resilient themes of this powerful chapter, let's explore five Bible passages that resonate with Paul's teachings: 1 Peter 2:9: "But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, the people of God, to declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light." This verse connects to the proclamation of the gospel in 2 Corinthians 4:1-6. Colossians 1:15: "He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation." This passage complements Paul's statement in 2 Corinthians 4:4 about Christ as the image of God. Romans 8:18: "I consider that our present sufferings are not worthy to be compared with the glory that will be revealed in us." This verse echoes Paul's theme of temporary afflictions and eternal glory in 2 Corinthians 4:17-18. 1 Peter 1:7: "So your faith, which is worth far more than gold that perishes, even if refined by fire, will be genuine and will result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ." This passage relates to Paul's idea that afflictions produce an "eternal weight of glory" in 2 Corinthians 4:17. Hebrews 11:1: "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen." This verse complements Paul's statement in 2 Corinthians 4:18 about fixing our eyes on what is unseen. By delving into these writings, we discover the richness of the Christian faith and the strength granted to us to overcome life's trials. May these words encourage us to persevere on our spiritual journey, keeping our eyes fixed on the light of Christ.