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Verse By Verse Devotional by Pastor Jack on 2 Corinthians #97

February 1, 2017 | by: Jack Lash | 0 comments

Posted in: 2 Corinthians

The Life-Giving Power of Death (4:7-12)

4:7-12 "But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, so that the surpassing greatness of the power will be of God and not from ourselves; 8 we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; 9 persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; 10 always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our body. 11 For we who live are constantly being delivered over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh. 12 So death works in us, but life in you.."

Paul here moves into one of the most remarkable passages in all of his epistles. Some in Corinth have accused him of being weak and therefore unworthy of being considered an apostle. In response, Paul now explains his weakness. He is weak in the same way Jesus was weak, in order that he may die so they might live. And his weakness is part of the strange strategy of God: He displays His glory in human weakness so that everyone can tell that He is the One behind it.

Power in weakness is one of the major themes of this splendid epistle. And it is clear by Paul’s example here (and instructions elsewhere) that God also wants US to learn to glory in weakness in order that God’s power might be shown through us.

One of the reasons why some had objected to Paul’s weakness is that this way of living flies in the face of human nature. Everything in us tells us to protect ourselves and resist pain. Dying is our arch-enemy. But Paul knows that those who follow in the footsteps of the Master must die to themselves every day, and that thereby others (and even they themselves) are brought to life.

Dear Father, forgive me for how I love my life on this earth. Help me to entrust myself to You, believing that the path of humility and self-denial leads to glory, joy and abundant life. I want Your glory to shine through my life. I want men to see me and say, "Look, even though troubles afflict him, he is not cast down. What keeps him afloat? It must be God!" But my faith is so small, Lord. Please help my unbelief!

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