For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory (2 Cor. 4:16, 17)

In chapter five of Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians he directs them as to what they can do. He includes himself in a series of “we” statements. He answers the question as to what we can do.

First, WE are to walk by faith (v7). Paul is not suggesting that we take a blind leap in the dark. Rather, we are to be those guided by the word of God (Rom. 10:17). God has not left us with something to give us direction (Jer. 10:23). If We are going to do anything We must follow the word of God (Col. 3:17).

Second, WE are to be confident (v8). If we know the word then we have every right to be confident. We can know that we know (1 Jo. 5:13, John 20: 31; 8:32). Paul wrote to Timothy about the confidence he had (2 Tim. 1:12). If we are going to be effective as Christians then we must be confident of our belief in God and His word.

In the third place, WE are to labor (v9). In his first epistle (15:58) Paul wrote that we are to labor for the Lord. We need to “lift up our eyes” (John 4:35) for there is work to do. Regrettably there are too few who are willing to work (Matt. 9:37, 38). The busier we stay working for God the less time we will have do things of no value (1 Tim. 5:13).

Fourth, WE are all accountable before God (v10). The omniscient God is aware of everything we do. Nothing escapes His view (Heb. 4:13). Heaven or hell awaits us based on the judgment of God (Matt. 25:46). Where are you headed.?

Finally, Paul wants us to know that WE are to persuade others (v11). Persuade them of what? They need to be reconciled to God. This is accomplished by the “word of reconciliation.” We need to tell the word that reconciliation comes through faith, repentance, confession and baptism.

We’ve got much to do, let’s get busy.

Terry Claunch