Enduring Faith In The Eternal Perspective 2 Corinthians 4:16–18 Series

Enduring Faith in the Eternal Perspective 2 Corinthians 4:16–18

2 Corinthians 4:16–18 (NLT): "That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever."

Introduction:

Today we explore the profound truth of enduring faith in the midst of life's challenges, anchored in the eternal perspective that Scripture provides. In 2 Corinthians 4:16–18, the Apostle Paul offers insights that inspire us to maintain unwavering hope and steadfastness in our Christian journey.

Point 1: Renewal in the Midst of Trials

In verse 16, Paul highlights a powerful paradox: while our physical bodies may experience weakness and decay, our inner being is continually renewed by the Spirit of God. This renewal is not dependent on outward circumstances but is a supernatural work of God within us.

Paul draws attention to the contrast between the temporal and the eternal. Our earthly bodies are subject to the effects of sin and mortality, but our spiritual vitality is sustained by the life-giving power of the Holy Spirit. This inward renewal empowers us to endure and overcome trials.

Isaiah 40:31 (NLT): "But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint."

This verse from Isaiah 40:31 captures the essence of relying on God's strength for endurance and renewal. It speaks to the promise of divine empowerment for those who place their trust in the Lord. The imagery of soaring on wings like eagles conveys the idea of surpassing obstacles with God's help, experiencing spiritual elevation and resilience.

Romans 8:11 (NLT): "The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you."

In Romans 8:11, Paul underscores the transformative power of the Holy Spirit residing in believers. Just as God raised Jesus from the dead, the Spirit imparts life and vitality to our mortal bodies. This verse assures us of divine life and strength dwelling within us through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.

Point 2: Temporary Troubles, Eternal Glory

Paul reminds us in verse 17 that the trials we face in this life are temporary and fleeting. Though they may seem overwhelming in the moment, they pale in comparison to the eternal glory that awaits us. Our present sufferings serve to produce a greater weight of glory in the eternal realm.

The Apostle encourages believers to maintain an eternal perspective. The hardships of this world are like a passing shadow compared to the everlasting glory that God has prepared for His children. Our faith enables us to endure temporary afflictions with the assurance of eternal reward.

Romans 8:18 (NLT): "Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later."

Paul's words in Romans 8:18 provide perspective on the temporary nature of present suffering in light of future glory. The trials we endure pale in comparison to the eternal weight of glory awaiting believers. This verse encourages us to maintain hope and perseverance amid life's challenges, knowing that God's ultimate purposes far exceed our momentary afflictions.

1 Peter 1:6–7 (NLT): "So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you must endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold."

Peter addresses believers facing trials in 1 Peter 1:6–7, highlighting the refining nature of suffering in the life of a Christian. Just as gold is purified by fire, our faith is tested and strengthened through trials, ultimately leading to genuine joy and a deeper relationship with God. This passage underscores the transformative impact of enduring faith in the face of adversity.

Point 3: Fixing Our Gaze on the Unseen

In verse 18, Paul exhorts believers to fix their eyes not on the visible circumstances of life but on the invisible realities of God's kingdom. This shift in focus requires faith—a conviction that the eternal promises of God far surpass the transient nature of this world.

Paul's words echo the essence of faith described in Hebrews 11:1.

Hebrews 11:1 (NLT): "Now faith is the confidence that what we hope for will actually happen; it gives us assurance about things we cannot see."