2 Corinthians 4:13-15

2 Corinthians 4:13-15

And while having the same spirit of faith according to that which has been written, “I believed, therefore I spoke,” we also believe therefore we also speak – having known that the one who raised up the Lord Jesus will raise us up with Jesus and He will present us with you all.  For all things are for your sake, in order that the grace that multiplied through many people should abound in thanksgiving into the glory of God.

Thoughts for Today

First Thought:

The verse that Paul appears to be quoting in this passage in Psalm 116:10.  What makes this quote especially pertinent is that the psalm also talks about speaking in spite of persecution, which Paul has also been talking about this chapter.  Paul’s point is rather clear.  When we know truth, we really cannot keep our mouths quiet.  If we have to choose between silence and persecution, we choose to speak and be persecuted rather than hold our tongue so that we can be accepted.  In spite of persecution we speak.

Are you good at speaking in the midst of persecution?  What makes it easy to speak when people want to do you wrong?  What makes it difficult?

Second Thought:

 Speaking of making it easy to speak, Paul tells us why it is easy for him to speak up.  He can speak up because he is confident in the resurrection.  The one who raised up Jesus can raise us up, too.  If God can raise us up out of the dead, then what do we have to fear?  If God can raise us up out of the dead, why be silent about the truth?

Does Paul’s perpetual eternal perspective amaze you?  How do you think this helped Paul in ministry?

Third Thought:

I’m about to sound like a broken record.  But once more Paul reminds us that all of this is for the glory of God.  We will be raised to the glory of God.  We sacrifice ourselves for the benefit of others for the glory of God.  Grace multiplies for the glory of God.  It really isn’t about us at all.  It is all really about God.

Is your life all about God?  How so?  Where can you stand to have a little improvement?

Passage for Tomorrow: 2 Corinthians 4:16-18