Paul continues to defend himself and his ministry. We can’t even begin to fathom what Paul encountered as he shared about Jesus. For some, it was the first time they had heard about Jesus. Certainly, understanding that Jesus was God’s Son and Savior of the world would be a revolutionary thought. And then there were all the false teachers who were confusing the people with the wrong message.
We know what happens to us thousands of years later as we try to share our faith. We’re not always welcome when speaking about Jesus and the message of the gospel. We should all pay attention to Paul’s declaration so there can be no condemnation: “We don’t try to trick anyone or distort the word of God.” Sadly, I often see Christians distorting the Bible’s message, watering it down, or picking only the parts they agree with and then ignoring the rest. False teachers, to be sure!
It was helpful for me to see Paul’s comments in verse 4a: “Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe.” Satan has more power than most people realize. He is crafty and will take any opening we give him to get into our heads, our homes, and thus our lives. Sometimes I wonder how good people can be so blind and not understand the message about Jesus. Paul tells us why. Satan has intervened, and we need to be careful, keeping our eyes open. We should also pray for all those who are lost and are missing out on the “glory of Christ.”
Life as a believer isn’t easy despite all the rewards. Have you ever felt like the world was crashing in around you? Paul likens our experience to being like fragile clay jars. Let that image sit with you for a moment. I know I have had seasons in my life when I have felt broken or about ready to crumble. No matter how bad it gets, remember Paul’s words, “We are hunted down, but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed.” We are never alone, and we can not be defeated when we give ourselves to Jesus. Did you just feel a weight lift off your shoulders?
Living as believers isn’t always popular, but it is always worth it. When people look at my life, whether they agree with me or not, I want to live “so that the life of Jesus will be evident.” That was such a profound comment Paul made here.
Paul gives us another nugget about how we can act and focus our minds as believers. In verse 18a, he says: “So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen.” Are you like me and tend to overthink things? Do you lie awake at night replaying your day, wishing you had done something else? What if we were to spend time worshiping or reading God’s Word instead of fixating on our troubles? Those are my favorite ways to keep focused on God, and that’s my hope until my dying breath when I receive my heavenly body.
Paul uses helpful metaphors to describe us, from fragile clay pots to having an earthly tent for a body. The mysteries of heaven and our eternal life are on our minds. When it comes to looking forward to our new bodies, rather than groaning and sighing about our aging ones, Paul has some good advice. “So whether we are here in this body or away from this body, our goal is to please him.” We can please him now, before we are taken to our true home and final destination.
We are on this planet for a reason. Are you living God’s purpose for your life? Have you been a good ambassador of peace and truth, representing Jesus well and pleasing God? Like Paul said, “it’s a fearful responsibility.” But God has entrusted each of us for such a time as this. It’s time to invite (Paul says we can plead) people to follow Jesus and know their debts have been paid.
Let’s pray. Lord Jesus, thank you for the price you paid for me and my freedom. Forgive me for the wrongs I commit each day, as I keep falling short of your perfect example. I want my life to be pleasing to you instead. I want you to use me to bring people back to you so they can be clay jars too, equipped with your great treasure, witnessing your glorious light. Guide me and cleanse me from the filth and lies of this world you love so much. I look forward to the day when I will be at home with you when the work you have for me is done. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
