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Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God. And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of God’s glory displayed in the face of Christ.

 

This letter to the early Christians in Corinth emphasizes maintaining a transparent, truthful ministry fueled by God's mercy rather than personal gain, even amidst opposition. Paul explains that while the gospel may be hidden to those blinded by the "god of this world”, believers are called to shine the light of Christ's glory. This passage highlights that the ministry is not about human strength but about manifesting the truth of God.

Paul preached his gospel boldly. When Paul considered the greatness of his calling, it gave him the heart to face all his difficulties. We often lose heart because we do not consider how great a calling God gives us in Jesus. God, who commanded light to shine in the darkness, shines in believers' hearts to bring the knowledge of His glory, which is seen in the face of Jesus Christ.

The ultimate goal of the gospel and Christianity is to bring us to a knowledge of God's glory. Knowledge of God's glory is humanity's greatest need. Ignorance of God's glory is the root cause of all of humanity's troubles. We tend to be self-centered, focusing on our problems and needs rather than on God's glory. We often view God as someone who exists to help us rather than as the One for whom we exist.

Heavenly Father, we pray for the lost. I ask You to shine Your light, to bind the blinding work of the gods of this world, and to give faith to overcome the unbelief that invites the blinding.

Donna DeMauro

donna@demaurostl.com

 

Prayer Concern: Please pray for missionaries and all people trying to spread the Gospel.