The life of the evangelist
2 Corinthians 4:7~15 But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair. (7~8) Hymn for scheduled worship: Korean/English Hymnal #365 Are You Weary (#484 in previous version) 2 Corinthians is a detailed record of the kind of trials Paul faced as he relayed the Gospel. As he was relaying the Gospel, Paul was imprisoned, starved, sleep deprived, and at times was beaten up and left for dead to the point that it would make anyone wish for death. But even through these tribulations, Paul confessed that he was able to refrain from becoming discouraged. What kind of mystery did Paul possess that he was able to overcome suffering and persecution?
1. Life of the evangelist
God called us as the evangelists to save the world. If we are evangelists, we cannot fail. No matter what happens or what persecutions we face, God will not abandon us. Even if we are hung upside down, we will not fail, and even though we may face frustration, there is no reason to be discouraged. Even though evangelists may seem weak and frail, God sees His evangelists as precious gems. When faced with a problem, instead of being afraid, we need to discover God’s good plan for us. The life of the evangelist cannot end in failure.
2. Confession of the evangelist
Even after receiving God’s answers, we are still human beings; as such, when we are faced with difficulties, giving thanks does not come naturally. Each day must be a time of greatest value to the evangelist, but we become stagnant and anxious after being deceived by the Holy Spirit. God promised to give us all blessings to save the world, but this becomes hard to believe. There are so many people in the world who live in much more dire suffering than us. As evangelists, everything is within Christ, and we must not be deceived. In all situations, we must restore true thanksgiving. If we can confess this, we will live, and our surroundings will live, as well.
3. Mystery of the evangelist
Satan, who confuses the minds of the children of God, prevents us from focusing on the Word of God by bringing insecurities. He makes us complain through anxieties, and makes us distance ourselves from God by making us resent others. But God tells us that this is the greatest opportunity to receive grace. In Paul’s most difficult times, he discovered God’s hidden mystery, and was able to relay this mystery to others while enjoying the mystery of prayer. To an evangelist, problems are opportunities for more important answers.
- Are there some things that confuse your hearts? When you hold onto the covenant and pray in your most difficult times, you will come to realize God’s great hidden plan. Begin your prayers now. Immanuel Church Sunday Worship 2nd Service / 2012. 7. 29