2 Corinthians 4 explained: Treasure Carried in Clay Jars

Not quitting, not hiding (vv. 1-2)

Paul says his work was given to him by God's mercy, so he does not give up. Rival teachers at Corinth seem to have accused him of trickery, and he answers that he speaks openly and lets each person's conscience judge.

Why some cannot see (vv. 3-4)

Paul admits some people find his message covered over, reusing the image of a veil from the previous chapter. He says a hostile spiritual ruler of the present world, whom most readers take to be Satan, has blinded minds to Christ, whom he calls the visible likeness of God.

Light shining in hearts (vv. 5-6)

Paul insists his message is about Jesus as Lord, not about himself, and he calls himself the Corinthians' servant. He echoes the creation story, saying the God who first spoke light into darkness now lights up people's hearts and shows his glory in Christ.

Treasure in clay jars (vv. 7-12)

Clay jars were cheap, breakable pots, and Paul says the treasure of this message sits in frail people so it is clear the power belongs to God. His list of being knocked down but never finished off reflects real beatings and danger, which he sees as sharing Jesus' death while Jesus' life still shows through.

Speaking out of trust (vv. 13-15)

Paul borrows a line from Psalm 116 linking belief with speaking out, to explain why he keeps preaching through hardship. He trusts that the God who raised Jesus will raise him too, and hopes his troubles will spread grace and thanks to more people.

Seen and unseen (vv. 16-18)

Paul admits his body is wearing out, yet says something inside him is renewed each day. He calls his very real troubles light and brief next to the lasting glory he expects, so he keeps his attention on what cannot be seen.

Key verse: 2 Corinthians 4:7

Where Christians differ

Christians differ on whether the "we" of this chapter describes Paul and his fellow workers in their particular sufferings or is meant as a pattern for every believer's life.

Something to think about

Is there something in your life you would call worth carrying even when it wears you down?