2 Corinthians 4:16
Verse
Context
Treasure in Jars of Clay
15All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is extending to more and more people may overflow in thanksgiving, to the glory of God.16Therefore we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, yet our inner self is being renewed day by day.17For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For which cause we faint not - Ουκ εκκα κουμεν. See on Co2 4:1 (note). Here we have the same various reading; εγκακουμεν, we do no wickedness; and it is supported by BDEFG, and some others: but it is remarkable that Mr. Wakefield follows the common reading here, though the various-reading is at least as well supported in this verse as in verse first. The common reading, faint not, appears to agree best with the apostle's meaning. But though our outward man - That is, our body - that part of us that can be seen, heard, and felt, perish - be slowly consumed by continual trials and afflictions, and be martyred at last; Yet the inward man - Our soul - that which cannot be felt or seen by others, is renewed - is revived, and receives a daily increase of light and life from God, so that we grow more holy, more happy, and more meet for glory every day. It was an opinion among the Jews that even spirits stood in need of continual renovation. They say that "God renews the angels daily, by putting them into the fiery river from which they proceeded, and then gives them the same name they had before." And they add, that in like manner he renews the hearts of the Israelites every year, when they turn to him by repentance. It is a good antidote against the fear of death to find, as the body grows old and decays, the soul grows young and is invigorated. By the outward man and the inward man St. Paul shows that he was no materialist: he believed that we have both a body and a soul; and so far was he from supposing that when the body dies the whole man is decomposed, and continues so to the resurrection, that he asserts that the decays of the one lead to the invigorating of the other; and that the very decomposition of the body itself leaves the soul in the state of renewed youth. The vile doctrine of materialism is not apostolic.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
we faint not--notwithstanding our sufferings. Resuming Co2 4:1. outward man--the body, the flesh. perish--"is wearing away"; "is wasted away" by afflictions. inward man--our spiritual and true being, the "life" which even in our mortal bodies (Co2 4:11) "manifests the life of Jesus." is renewed--"is being renewed," namely, with fresh "grace" (Co2 4:15), and "faith" (Co2 4:13), and hope (Co2 4:17-18).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For our light affliction,.... The difference between the present and future state of the saints is here expressed, the disparity between them shown, and the influence the one has upon the other. The present state is a state of "affliction". Affliction is the common lot of the children of men, but more especially of the children of God, and is here designed by "our" affliction; for these, besides their soul trouble, meet with such in the world, and from the men of it, others do not. Afflictions are appointed for them by their heavenly Father; provision is made for them, and support under them, in the covenant of grace; they are Christ's legacy to them, and by which they are conformed to him; they are always for their good, spiritual and eternal; and lie in their way to heaven, through which they must pass into the kingdom: now these their outward afflictions which are here meant, lie chiefly in the meanness of their outward circumstances; in poverty and distress, in disgrace, reproaches, and persecutions for their profession of Christ, and his truths: and in opposition to this their mean and despicable condition in the eyes of the world, their future state is signified by "glory", as it often is in the word of God; and is of such a nature, that all the glories of this world, such as kingdoms, crowns, inheritances, possessions, riches, honour, and substance of every kind and degree, by all which the heavenly state is expressed, are but faint resemblances of it: it is the same glory Christ has entered into, is possessed of for, and will give to all his people; it will chiefly lie in communion with Father, Son, and Spirit, with angels, and one another; there will be a visible glory upon the bodies of the saints, which will be fashioned like to the glorious body of Christ; and their souls will be blessed with perfect knowledge and holiness. Their affliction is represented as "light" which though it is not in itself, but often very grievous and heavy to be borne, especially when any soul trouble is added to it; yet is light, when the saint is supported by the arm of the Lord, indulged with his presence, and favoured with the discoveries of his love. The afflictions of God's people are light, when compared with their deserts, with the sufferings of Christ, the torments of the damned in hell, and the joys of heaven, which are here, by way of opposition thereunto, styled a "weight of glory". The apostle has respect to the Hebrew word which signifies both "weight" and "glory", and is often used for riches, honour, and whatsoever is excellent, solid, and substantial: and here the phrase designs the weighty riches of glory, that massy crown of glory which fadeth not away, that bulky and more enduring substance, which Christ will cause them that love him to inherit. Again, the afflictions of the children of God are said to be for a moment; they are but for a while, and that a little while; at most they are but for the present time of life, and that is but as a vapour which appears for a little while, and then vanishes away; it is but as a moment, a point of time, in comparison of eternity: but the glory the saints are chosen and called unto, that weight of it which shall be put upon them is "eternal", it will last for ever; it will know no end: hence it is called an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens, an everlasting kingdom, everlasting habitations, an incorruptible inheritance, and a crown of glory that fadeth not away. Now the present affliction of the people of God has a considerable influence upon this; it is said here, that it worketh for us this glory. The Jews (y) introduce God speaking words much like these. "Saith the holy blessed God, I have sent them chastisements in this world, , "to strengthen their arms for", or that their arms may lay hold upon the world to come.'' Now afflictions may be said to work eternal glory for the saints, not by way of merit, for they are not worthy to be compared with the glory to be revealed; there is no proportion between them; besides, the heavenly kingdom and glory was prepared from the foundation of the world, and is a free grace gift of their heavenly Father; but they work as means of enjoying it, as the word and ordinances do; the Spirit of God makes use of them, as of the other, to work up the saints for that selfsame thing, glory: these are means of trying, exercising, and improving their graces, of weaning their hearts from this world, and drawing out their desires, hope, and expectation of another; they are the way in which believers walk to glory, and which it last issue and terminate in it; glory follows upon them, though it is not for them. (y) R. Moses Kotsensis Mitzvot Torah, praecept. affirm. 17.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:16-17 we never give up: This call to endurance is given with a reminder of what is in store in the future (5:1-10). The human body is in the process of dying in the normal course of growing old, and Paul was particularly worn away physically and emotionally (4:8-12). Yet he was being renewed every day—his spirit’s life was being rejuvenated and revitalized by the power of God.
2 Corinthians 4:16
Treasure in Jars of Clay
15All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is extending to more and more people may overflow in thanksgiving, to the glory of God.16Therefore we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, yet our inner self is being renewed day by day.17For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Basics) 10. God's Word Is Our Food
By Zac Poonen7.1K13:11GEN 1:2GEN 1:312CO 4:161PE 1:23In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of responding to the word of God. He refers to Genesis chapter 1, where the earth responded to the word of God and something happened. The speaker explains that if Christians respond to the word of God by accepting, believing, and obeying it, their lives will be transformed. He highlights that God works in our lives slowly, day by day, to remove chaos and shapelessness, and to make us more like Christ. The speaker also emphasizes the role of the Holy Spirit and the word of God working together to bring about change.
How to Rise Above Discouragement
By J. Oswald Sanders6.7K38:07Discouragement2CO 4:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of focusing on the eternal rather than the temporary things of this world. He encourages the audience to lift their gaze and not be discouraged by the war, crime, and violence they see in the world. The speaker highlights four reasons why we should not lose heart, including walking by faith and not by sight, being content to leave the body behind and go home to the Lord, and being engrossed with the eternal rather than the circumstances around us. The speaker also mentions that Paul, in his ministry, realized the mercy of God and how being in the ministry was a marvelous thing despite his past persecution of the church.
Don't Give Up
By Jim Cymbala3.7K19:38DiscouragementPSA 23:1PSA 27:14ISA 40:31MAT 11:282CO 4:12CO 4:16GAL 6:9In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the theme of not losing heart in the face of struggles and challenges. He refers to the apostle Paul's words in 2 Corinthians 4:1 and 4:16, where Paul encourages believers to not lose heart. The preacher emphasizes that Paul's vulnerability and honesty about his own struggles can help us in our own battles. He highlights the importance of not giving in to fear and fatigue, as they can hinder our relationship with God and our ability to experience victory. The preacher also emphasizes the need to fix our eyes on the unseen, eternal things of God rather than being consumed by the visible, temporary circumstances around us.
Broken Vessels
By Manley Beasley3.6K1:05:05Vessels2CO 4:52CO 4:162CO 4:18In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of not preaching oneself, but rather preaching Christ Jesus as the Lord. He highlights that God has shined His light in our hearts to give us the knowledge of His glory in the face of Jesus Christ. The preacher acknowledges that as believers, we may face troubles, distress, and persecution, but we are not forsaken or destroyed because we carry the dying of the Lord Jesus in our bodies. He also mentions that the message is preached in the context of a pastor who has been diagnosed with a disease similar to what the preacher had in the past, and how they have been discussing the things of God. The preacher believes that this message will be meaningful to the listeners.
Improving Leadership Effectiveness Ii
By J. Oswald Sanders3.1K1:01:35Leadership2CO 4:16In this sermon, the speaker discusses four important aspects of leadership in the context of the ministry of the new covenant. Firstly, leaders are entrusted with the responsibility of spreading the word of God. Secondly, they are empowered by the Holy Spirit and receive new strength every day. Thirdly, leaders should prioritize eternal matters and walk by faith rather than sight. Lastly, leaders should focus on maintaining healthy relationships and use the Holy Spirit as a lubricant to resolve conflicts. The speaker emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the work of God over individual peace and the need for proper delegation in leadership.
Actuality or Reality
By Manley Beasley2.5K29:01Doubt2KI 6:17MAT 6:33MAT 16:8JHN 7:242CO 4:162CO 4:18HEB 11:27In this sermon, the pastor emphasizes the importance of turning to the Word of God amidst the confusion and changing circumstances of the world. He quotes 2 Corinthians 4:18, which encourages believers to focus on the eternal, unseen things rather than the temporary, visible things. The pastor explains that faith is like a sixth sense that allows us to perceive the truth and reality that God reveals to us. He assures the listeners that by seeking God and understanding His purpose in allowing certain things in their lives, they will find peace, fulfillment, and a true encounter with God.
At Home With the Lord
By John Piper2.2K34:512CO 4:16In this sermon series, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living out the word of God in our daily lives. He highlights four reasons why this series is significant to him. Firstly, it provides daily courage to face the challenges of life. Secondly, it reminds us that the worship and experiences in church are not just a temporary escape from reality, but a true reflection of God's reality. Thirdly, it encourages us to prioritize our love for God over worldly desires. Lastly, the series explores what happens after death, including the immediate aftermath, the coming of the Lord, the judgment of believers, and the final state. The preacher aims to bridge the gap between this life and the next through the essential act of worship.
Ambassadors for Christ - Part 1
By Zac Poonen2.1K55:26EvangelismMAT 6:33LUK 18:1JHN 14:62CO 4:12CO 4:16HEB 12:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not giving up in various aspects of life. He references Luke 18:1, where Jesus encourages believers to always pray and never lose heart. The speaker also highlights the example of Paul, who walked in constant victory through God's leading. He emphasizes the need to live and labor in the will of God, as Paul did, and warns against doing Christian work without being in God's will. The speaker encourages believers to examine their motives and ensure that their actions align with their public image and private life.
Your Jar of Clay
By Jim Cymbala1.8K24:40Christian LifePSA 95:6PSA 119:11ISA 40:31MAT 6:332CO 4:72CO 4:161PE 5:7In this sermon, the preacher discusses the negative effects of focusing solely on the physical world. He mentions that this can lead to anger and anxiety, as well as a preoccupation with criminal behavior and injustice. The preacher emphasizes the importance of looking beyond the visible and focusing on the invisible, spiritual aspects of life. He uses the analogy of a jar of clay to illustrate that although we may face challenges and hardships, we are not completely crushed or without hope. The preacher encourages the audience to maintain their faith and trust in God, even in difficult times.
Daily Renewal
By Jim Cymbala1.5K46:17RenewalPSA 119:11JER 15:16MAT 4:4MAT 6:33MAT 24:35JHN 4:142CO 4:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not solely relying on our physical bodies and appearances. He highlights that even though physical fitness is important, it does not guarantee happiness or prevent mental health issues such as suicide. The speaker encourages the audience to not be discouraged by the negative events and news in the world, but to focus on the invisible and eternal aspects of life. He also references the apostle Paul's experiences of persecution and suffering, yet his unwavering faith and lack of discouragement. The speaker concludes by suggesting that just as we need to nourish our physical bodies, we also need to renew our inner selves daily to maintain strength and victory over discouragement.
(John) the Gracious Gaze
By Willie Mullan1.4K43:23GraciousnessJHN 8:58JHN 9:1JHN 9:32CO 4:162CO 5:1In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the story of Jesus healing a blind man. Despite being surrounded by a hostile crowd, Jesus takes the time to notice and have sympathy for the man in deep trouble. The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing when someone has experienced a true transformation and wanting to hear their story. The blind man attributes his healing to a man called Jesus, highlighting the person and the work that Jesus did for him. The sermon also touches on the concept of two kingdoms, the kingdom of God's dear son and the kingdom of God.
Daily Transformation to Christlikeness
By Zac Poonen1.1K1:08:56PSA 90:12PRO 4:18ISA 50:4MAT 11:28ROM 8:292CO 3:182CO 4:16This sermon emphasizes the importance of daily surrendering to God, seeking His wisdom, and becoming more like Jesus Christ each day. It highlights the need to listen to God's voice daily, respond to His leading, and seek His approval at the end of each day. The message encourages turning to the Holy Spirit to remove veils of sin, legalism, and judgmental attitudes, allowing us to see Jesus clearly and be transformed into His likeness from glory to glory.
The Nature of Man - Antiquity of Man Part 2
By John Murray1.1K33:28Nature Of ManGEN 2:7GEN 3:19PSA 119:160MAT 6:331CO 15:532CO 4:161TH 5:23In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of understanding the nature of man as both material and spiritual. He emphasizes that God used dust from the ground to form man, highlighting the material aspect of our constitution. The preacher also mentions a quote from Dogeberg that may contradict this view, but encourages the audience not to be swayed by it. Additionally, the sermon touches on the significance of the genealogies and the longevity of the patriarchs in providing insights into the early days of human history.
Listen to God Constantly
By Zac Poonen1.1K56:00PRO 4:13ISA 42:19JHN 5:30JHN 15:72CO 4:16COL 3:10JAS 5:16This sermon emphasizes the importance of abiding in God's Word and listening to His voice daily. It highlights the need to prioritize spiritual growth over worldly desires, focusing on renewing the inner man daily while acknowledging the decay of the outer man. The speaker encourages developing a habit of seeking God's will, forming righteous judgments, and valuing God's Word to experience His power and authority in prayer.
Allow God to Break You
By Zac Poonen1.1K1:02:06MAT 11:29LUK 16:15LUK 22:32ROM 8:162CO 4:72CO 4:162PE 3:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of continuous growth and progress in our spiritual lives, highlighting the need for humility, brokenness, and a willingness to be small in our own eyes. It draws lessons from the life of Peter, showcasing how God can use brokenness to bring about transformation and fruitfulness. The message encourages believers to avoid justifying themselves, getting offended, and to be quick to apologize, ultimately seeking to see Jesus more clearly through a life of humility and surrender.
God's First Messages to Man - (1) Forty Messages From Genesis Chapters 1 to 11
By Zac Poonen1.0K56:07GEN 1:1GEN 1:26GEN 1:28GEN 1:31JHN 15:5ROM 6:142CO 2:142CO 4:16PHP 4:19This sermon emphasizes the importance of studying the Scriptures in a transformative way, focusing on key lessons from Genesis chapter 1. It highlights the need to be honest about our spiritual condition, submit to the Holy Spirit's work, listen to God's word daily, separate from darkness, understand sanctification as a daily process, allow God to reproduce His image in us, be rulers over our passions, trust in God's provision, rely on His blessing for fruitfulness, and believe that God can make something beautiful out of our lives.
Homesick for Heaven
By Al Whittinghill9691:03:57Heaven2CO 4:16In this sermon, the preacher describes a dream where she sees a magnificent scene from the Book of Revelation. She sees a clear floor that looks like glass with a golden hue, and everyone seems to understand what is happening without words being spoken. She also sees a silver platter with cakes, which she later realizes represents the table of showbread. The preacher emphasizes that the concept of beauty and objects is foreign in heaven, and that in the future, our limited experiences of grace and mercy will be expanded into eternity. The sermon also includes stories of individuals who have experienced glimpses of heaven before passing away.
Continual Quickening - Part 1
By Ken Baird94653:442CO 4:16EPH 1:15EPH 1:181TI 4:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of quickening and the importance of sustaining our spiritual life. He explains that in our physical life, we apprehend things through our five senses, which give us consciousness. However, if we lose any of these senses, we become unconscious or dead. The preacher emphasizes the need for spiritual quickening and refers to passages from the Bible, such as Jeremiah, to illustrate the nourishment and sweetness that comes from the word of God. He also highlights the danger of being consumed by worldly pleasures and urges the listeners to seek spiritual sustenance from the Lord.
On the Victory Side
By Manley Beasley9351:19:58VictoryMAT 6:33ROM 8:112CO 4:16PHP 3:10JAS 1:21PE 5:7In this sermon, the speaker expresses their excitement about the current state of affairs and believes that God is preparing for a great revival. They acknowledge that there have been excesses in the past due to a lack of preparation and balance, but they are hopeful that this time will be different. The speaker shares their personal experience of facing adversity and seeing it as a stepping stone to greater things. They also mention a film called "The Centerville Awakening" that they have acquired and will distribute with some limitations, believing it will help break up the spiritual stagnation and sow the seeds of revival.
Suffering for the Sake of the Body - Lesson 3
By John Piper9051:25:31MAT 5:11JHN 20:21ACT 14:21ROM 8:172CO 4:16PHP 1:291PE 4:12In this sermon, Pastor John Piper discusses the topic of suffering and how it should not cause us to view God as a horrendous God. He emphasizes the magnitude of the ugliness of pride, unbelief, indifference, and scorn, which will be experienced in hell for eternity. Despite the suffering in the world, God has not left himself without a witness and has shown his goodness by providing rain and fruitful seasons. The sermon concludes with the encouragement to trust in God and rely on his spirit and power, as he will provide what is needed in times of difficulty.
The Lamp of the Body
By Shane Idleman67547:32PSA 119:11PRO 23:7ROM 12:22CO 4:16PHP 4:8This sermon emphasizes the battle between serving God and serving worldly desires, highlighting the importance of renewing the mind to align with God's will. It addresses the struggle of serving two masters, the consequences of drifting away from God, and the power of repentance to turn back to Him. The message underscores the significance of focusing on heavenly treasures, the impact of fasting to break worldly entanglements, and the need for humility to soften hardened hearts.
Fren-13 Fondements Apostoliques - L'ternit
By Art Katz6751:05:46ApostolicMAT 6:33ROM 5:212CO 4:162CO 4:182CO 5:72CO 5:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of walking in the light of God and expressing one's faith boldly, even if it goes against societal norms of politeness and good taste. The sermon then shifts to discussing the topic of eternity and the paradox of the church, where heavenly things are manifested through earthly vessels. The preacher prays for heavenly assistance and acknowledges the weariness of himself and his brother, highlighting the need for humility and reliance on God's strength. The sermon concludes with a call to recognize the reality of the spiritual realm and the importance of preaching the truth of Christ and his crucifixion to all nations.
Holiness
By Al Whittinghill6381:03:57Holiness2CO 4:16In this sermon, the preacher describes a dream she had about the Booker Revelation. In the dream, she saw a magnificent scene with a clear, shimmering floor and a silver platter with cakes on it, resembling the table of showbread. She also talks about the concept of beauty and objects being foreign in the heavenly realm. The preacher emphasizes the idea of experiencing a foretaste of glory divine through the Holy Spirit, and how in the future, this will be expanded into eternity. The sermon also includes stories of individuals who have lived with a heavenly mindset even before their physical death.
Do Not Faint
By Mack Tomlinson52540:30PSA 27:13ECC 9:11ISA 40:28ISA 40:302CO 4:161TH 5:14HEB 11:34HEB 12:3This sermon focuses on the theme of spiritual weariness and fainting, drawing from Isaiah 40:28-31. It emphasizes the reality of weariness in the Christian life, the various challenges faced, and the need to wait upon the Lord for renewal and strength. The message highlights God's promise to empower the faint and weary, encouraging believers to view weakness through a biblical perspective and minister to those who are struggling.
The Great Delusion: The Spiritual State of the Nation - Ken Ham
By From the Pulpit & Classic Sermons44658:02Radio2CO 4:16In this video, the speaker discusses the topic of Christian persecution around the world and criticizes the lack of attention given to it. The speaker also mentions the Supreme Court's decision in 2013 to strike down a provision of the Defense of Marriage Act, which opened the way for the legalization of gay marriage across the country. The video includes a section from a United Nations video promoting LGBT rights as human rights. The speaker then introduces Ken Ham's message titled "The Great Delusion, The Spiritual State of Our Nation," where he encourages Christians to stand upon the authority of the Word of God and not compromise with secularism.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For which cause we faint not - Ουκ εκκα κουμεν. See on Co2 4:1 (note). Here we have the same various reading; εγκακουμεν, we do no wickedness; and it is supported by BDEFG, and some others: but it is remarkable that Mr. Wakefield follows the common reading here, though the various-reading is at least as well supported in this verse as in verse first. The common reading, faint not, appears to agree best with the apostle's meaning. But though our outward man - That is, our body - that part of us that can be seen, heard, and felt, perish - be slowly consumed by continual trials and afflictions, and be martyred at last; Yet the inward man - Our soul - that which cannot be felt or seen by others, is renewed - is revived, and receives a daily increase of light and life from God, so that we grow more holy, more happy, and more meet for glory every day. It was an opinion among the Jews that even spirits stood in need of continual renovation. They say that "God renews the angels daily, by putting them into the fiery river from which they proceeded, and then gives them the same name they had before." And they add, that in like manner he renews the hearts of the Israelites every year, when they turn to him by repentance. It is a good antidote against the fear of death to find, as the body grows old and decays, the soul grows young and is invigorated. By the outward man and the inward man St. Paul shows that he was no materialist: he believed that we have both a body and a soul; and so far was he from supposing that when the body dies the whole man is decomposed, and continues so to the resurrection, that he asserts that the decays of the one lead to the invigorating of the other; and that the very decomposition of the body itself leaves the soul in the state of renewed youth. The vile doctrine of materialism is not apostolic.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
we faint not--notwithstanding our sufferings. Resuming Co2 4:1. outward man--the body, the flesh. perish--"is wearing away"; "is wasted away" by afflictions. inward man--our spiritual and true being, the "life" which even in our mortal bodies (Co2 4:11) "manifests the life of Jesus." is renewed--"is being renewed," namely, with fresh "grace" (Co2 4:15), and "faith" (Co2 4:13), and hope (Co2 4:17-18).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For our light affliction,.... The difference between the present and future state of the saints is here expressed, the disparity between them shown, and the influence the one has upon the other. The present state is a state of "affliction". Affliction is the common lot of the children of men, but more especially of the children of God, and is here designed by "our" affliction; for these, besides their soul trouble, meet with such in the world, and from the men of it, others do not. Afflictions are appointed for them by their heavenly Father; provision is made for them, and support under them, in the covenant of grace; they are Christ's legacy to them, and by which they are conformed to him; they are always for their good, spiritual and eternal; and lie in their way to heaven, through which they must pass into the kingdom: now these their outward afflictions which are here meant, lie chiefly in the meanness of their outward circumstances; in poverty and distress, in disgrace, reproaches, and persecutions for their profession of Christ, and his truths: and in opposition to this their mean and despicable condition in the eyes of the world, their future state is signified by "glory", as it often is in the word of God; and is of such a nature, that all the glories of this world, such as kingdoms, crowns, inheritances, possessions, riches, honour, and substance of every kind and degree, by all which the heavenly state is expressed, are but faint resemblances of it: it is the same glory Christ has entered into, is possessed of for, and will give to all his people; it will chiefly lie in communion with Father, Son, and Spirit, with angels, and one another; there will be a visible glory upon the bodies of the saints, which will be fashioned like to the glorious body of Christ; and their souls will be blessed with perfect knowledge and holiness. Their affliction is represented as "light" which though it is not in itself, but often very grievous and heavy to be borne, especially when any soul trouble is added to it; yet is light, when the saint is supported by the arm of the Lord, indulged with his presence, and favoured with the discoveries of his love. The afflictions of God's people are light, when compared with their deserts, with the sufferings of Christ, the torments of the damned in hell, and the joys of heaven, which are here, by way of opposition thereunto, styled a "weight of glory". The apostle has respect to the Hebrew word which signifies both "weight" and "glory", and is often used for riches, honour, and whatsoever is excellent, solid, and substantial: and here the phrase designs the weighty riches of glory, that massy crown of glory which fadeth not away, that bulky and more enduring substance, which Christ will cause them that love him to inherit. Again, the afflictions of the children of God are said to be for a moment; they are but for a while, and that a little while; at most they are but for the present time of life, and that is but as a vapour which appears for a little while, and then vanishes away; it is but as a moment, a point of time, in comparison of eternity: but the glory the saints are chosen and called unto, that weight of it which shall be put upon them is "eternal", it will last for ever; it will know no end: hence it is called an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens, an everlasting kingdom, everlasting habitations, an incorruptible inheritance, and a crown of glory that fadeth not away. Now the present affliction of the people of God has a considerable influence upon this; it is said here, that it worketh for us this glory. The Jews (y) introduce God speaking words much like these. "Saith the holy blessed God, I have sent them chastisements in this world, , "to strengthen their arms for", or that their arms may lay hold upon the world to come.'' Now afflictions may be said to work eternal glory for the saints, not by way of merit, for they are not worthy to be compared with the glory to be revealed; there is no proportion between them; besides, the heavenly kingdom and glory was prepared from the foundation of the world, and is a free grace gift of their heavenly Father; but they work as means of enjoying it, as the word and ordinances do; the Spirit of God makes use of them, as of the other, to work up the saints for that selfsame thing, glory: these are means of trying, exercising, and improving their graces, of weaning their hearts from this world, and drawing out their desires, hope, and expectation of another; they are the way in which believers walk to glory, and which it last issue and terminate in it; glory follows upon them, though it is not for them. (y) R. Moses Kotsensis Mitzvot Torah, praecept. affirm. 17.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:16-17 we never give up: This call to endurance is given with a reminder of what is in store in the future (5:1-10). The human body is in the process of dying in the normal course of growing old, and Paul was particularly worn away physically and emotionally (4:8-12). Yet he was being renewed every day—his spirit’s life was being rejuvenated and revitalized by the power of God.