The next few articles are from 2 Corinthians 4, but that chapter begins with the word “Therefore”. So, as some pastors like to ask, “What do we do when we find the word, ‘Therefore‘?” The answer? “We look to see what it’s ‘there for‘.”
So, backing up to 2 Corinthians 3, Paul was writing about the ministry of the Spirit (see verses 7-8), and how this contrasts with the Law of Moses. He contrasted the glory that shone on Moses’ face after Moses had spoken with God (which was so intense that Moses had to wear a veil when speaking with the Israelites – see Exodus 34:29-35) with the even superior glory of the ministry of righteousness.
Let’s read 2 Corinthians 3:15-18, as a lead-up to the “Therefore” of 2 Corinthians 4:1.
Even to this day when Moses is read, a veil covers their hearts. But whenever anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
2 Corinthians 3:15-18 NIV
While there are still those whose hearts are veiled from seeing things clearly, Jesus Christ takes that away for those who choose to let Him. By the way, this is why we shouldn’t expect individuals who haven’t yet committed their lives to Jesus to understand and see spiritual things as clearly as those who have. There’s a step of faith in trusting Him, but when we do, there’s a transformation that takes place (see 2 Corinthians 5:17). Hold that thought for later!
The Spirit of the Lord brings freedom to our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin (as a recently popular song describes), and we are no longer dependent upon the law of Moses (since Jesus paid the price that the law demanded for sin). We are free!
And, when we are freed, the Spirit of God doesn’t leave us in our sinful state, but we are transformed to become more like Him. While we can’t personally save anyone from their sins (only Jesus does that), we can demonstrate other aspects of Jesus’ character, like righteous behavior, a heart set on glorifying God, and a deep love for others.
That’s pretty amazing, so what’s next? What result does Paul suggest should come of this? “Therefore”, what?
Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart.
2 Corinthians 4:1 NIV
Paul and Timothy had a great ministry. This ministry was one that brought freedom and glory and Christ-likeness and transformation and the ability to see more of God’s character. So, “Therefore…” what did they do?
In verse 1, Paul says that, “we do not lose heart”. He didn’t know you or me personally, but I believe that this reminder applies to all who have this ministry: not necessarily a paid job with the title of “minister” on our business card, but the commission from Christ to make disciples and do our part in the Kingdom of God. We must not lose heart in our ministry.
So, what does “losing heart” mean in this context? (Is it like Indiana Jones in the Temple of Doom, where the cult priest tried to extract his heart before sending Indy down into lava? Probably not.) Let’s consider the following possibilities:
- Giving up?
- Sinking into sadness because others don’t see the truth like we do? [see verses 3-4]
- Going back to our sinful ways? [see verse 2]
- Compromising our message with something other than the truth? [see verse 2]
- Or, as a commentator suggests [Baker, p.172], is this giving up or not living up to one’s responsibilities?
Regardless of how many of these apply to what Paul was thinking about, let’s “take heart” instead of “losing heart”. If you have chosen to follow Jesus and enjoy the blessings of doing so, then challenges, frustrations, and sorrow may have shown up in your ministry. Those difficulties may seem enormous in the moment, but I hope that you – like Paul – can remember the amazing transformation that the Holy Spirit has brought to your life, celebrate the security and joy that this brings, and not lose heart.
If you haven’t yet decided to follow Jesus, though, that’s the first step towards the glorious transformation that God offers to you. Won’t you ask Him to change you for the better, and allow Him to take care of your shortcomings? Being adopted into His family is the first step on a great, eternal journey.
From Sunday School lesson prepared for May 12, 2024
References:
- The Lookout, May 12, 2024, © 2024 Christian Standard Media.
- Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
- Scripture quotations taken from the NASB. Copyright by The Lockman Foundation.
- The College Press NIV Commentary – 2 Corinthians, by William R. Baker. © 1999 College Press Publishing Co.
Those Who Sin Differently 