2 Corinthians 4:7-15

God's Proclaimers Will Overcome

The treasure would be the gospel. That treasure is carried to the world in earthly vessels, that is, our bodies. Because the body is weak, the greatness of the message it carries is better seen. Also, it is easy to see such a frail body is not the source of such a powerful message (2 Corinthians 4:7).

Paul also pictured gospel proclaimers as soldiers fighting for the gospel treasure. He knew the enemy might move in on all sides at close quarters. However, the apostle said God's soldier would still have room to wield his sword and defend himself with his shield. Though he might be greatly troubled by the close fighting, he should not lose hope. In the thick of the battle, the soldier might seek safety by running. Even then, Paul said God would not leave him in a helpless state. In fact, the apostle said God would not allow His soldier to be defeated even if he was overtaken by the enemy and knocked down (2 Corinthians 4:8-9).

Paul and other proclaimers of the good news suffered persecution like Jesus and died, as it were, because of it (1 Corinthians 15:31; Romans 8:36; 1 Peter 3:10; Colossians 1:24; Galatians 6:17). Paul's sufferings caused the selfish man to be dead and Christ to be seen in Paul's response to that suffering (Galatians 2:20). That death, brought about by suffering for Christ, also brings eternal life through the gospel, for those who hear us proclaim despite trials. Despite affliction, which might have caused Paul to give up, he took the attitude of the Psalmist who was compelled to speak because he believed in God (2 Corinthians 4:10-13; Psalms 116:10).

The ultimate source of the proclaimers' belief and hope rested in the resurrection. It was the knowledge that all believers, including the bearer of good news, would one day overcome the grave and be taken home to be with the Lord that kept them strong and faithful. Everything done in the service of the gospel is done for the believer. They were taught that they might receive God's grace and, in turn, that grace received by them might glorify God (2 Corinthians 4:14-15).