Treasuring the Gospel: From Darkness to Eternal Glory

2 Corinthians 4 shines a light on the power of God's Gospel that transcends our weaknesses, trials, and afflictions. It encourages us to focus on the eternal, unseen realities, and understand our sufferings in the light of the surpassing glory to come. As jars of clay, we are reminded that we carry the precious treasure of the Gospel, showcasing God's power in our frailty.

Verses 1-2: The Character of Paul's Ministry

Paul explains that because of God's mercy, they do not lose heart in their ministry. They reject secret and shameful ways, instead setting forth the truth plainly and commending themselves to everyone's conscience in the sight of God.

Verses 3-6: The Power of God’s Light

Paul acknowledges that the Gospel may be veiled to those who are perishing, due to the god of this age blinding their minds. However, for those who believe, God has shone the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ.

Verses 7-12: Jars of Clay, Strength in Weakness

Paul then uses the metaphor of jars of clay to depict believers. They carry in their bodies the treasure of the Gospel, showing that this all-surpassing power is from God, not from them. Despite being hard-pressed, perplexed, persecuted, and struck down, they are not destroyed. The life of Jesus is revealed in their body.

Verses 13-18: The Eternal Perspective on Affliction

Paul reminds the Corinthians that their present troubles are light and momentary compared to the eternal glory that far outweighs them. They fix their eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, for what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

In 2 Corinthians 4, Paul expounds on the character of his ministry and the power of the Gospel. He discusses the illuminating work of God in our hearts, the paradox of carrying the treasure of the Gospel in jars of clay, and the eternal perspective on our momentary afflictions.

The Ministry of the Gospel
God’s Illumination
Suffering and Renewal
Eternal GloryThe Character of Paul's Ministry
The Power of God’s Light
Jars of Clay: Strength in Weakness
The Eternal Perspective on AfflictionPaul
The Corinthians
Jesus Christ
GodCorinth

1. How does Paul describe his ministry in verses 1-2?

2. How does Paul explain the inability of some people to comprehend the Gospel?

3. What does Paul mean when he refers to believers as "jars of clay"?

4. What is the "treasure" mentioned in verse 7?

5. How can we carry in our body the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in us?

6. How does Paul's approach to adversity in verses 8-9 inspire you?

7. How can the paradox of suffering yet surviving, dying yet living be evident in your life?

8. In verses 13-15, how does Paul view faith and its proclamation?

9. What perspective does Paul encourage us to have when faced with difficulties?

10. What does it mean to "fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen"?

11. How can we apply the principles of eternal perspective in our daily life?

12. How does the idea of our present troubles being light and momentary change how you view your own hardships?

13. How can understanding that "what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal" impact your lifestyle choices?

14. How can we practice focusing on eternal, unseen realities in a world that emphasizes the visible and temporary?

15. How can Paul's experience with suffering and hope in the Gospel influence your response to trials?

16. How can this chapter inspire you to share your faith with others more effectively?

17. What does it mean to you that the life of Jesus is revealed in our mortal flesh?

18. What does Paul's attitude towards his sufferings teach you about resilience and faith?

19. In what ways can you experience God's power in your life despite trials or weaknesses?

20. How can this chapter affect your understanding of the Gospel's role in your life?