2 Corinthians 4:18
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
While we look not at the things which are seen - Μη σκοπουντων. While we aim not at the things which are seen; do not make them our object; are not striving to obtain them; for they are not worthy the pursuit of an immortal spirit, because they are seen; they are objects to which the natural eye can reach; and they are προσκαιρα, temporary; they are to have a short duration, and must have an end. But the things which we make our scope and aim are not seen; they are spiritual, and therefore invisible to the eye of the body; and besides, they are αιωνΐα, eternal - things that are permanent; that can have no end; they are things which belong to God; holiness, happiness, and the endless communication and fruition of himself. But we must remark that the light afflictions work out this far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory only to those who do not look at the things which are seen. A man may be grievously afflicted, and yet have his eye bent on temporal good; from his afflictions he can derive no benefit; though many think that their glorification must be a necessary consequence of their afflictions, and hence we do not unfrequently hear among the afflicted poor, "Well, we shall not suffer both here and in the other world too." Afflictions may be means of preparing us for glory, if, during them, we receive grace to save the soul; but afflictions of themselves have no spiritual nor saving tendency; on the contrary, they sour the unregenerated mind, and cause murmurings against the dispensations of Divine Providence. Let us, therefore, look to God, that they may be sanctified; and when they are, then we may say exultingly, These light afflictions, which are but for a moment, work for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. O world to come, in exchange for the present! O eternity, for a moment! O eternal communion in the holy, blessed, and eternal life of God, for the sacrifice of a poor, miserable, and corrupted life here on earth! Whoever sets no value on this seed of a blessed eternity knows not what it comprehends. That which the eyes of the flesh are capable of perceiving is not worthy of a soul capable of possessing God. Nothing which is of a perishable nature can be the chief good of a being that was made for eternity! - Quesnel.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
look not at--as our aim. things . . . seen--"earthly things" (Phi 3:19). We mind not the things seen, whether affliction or refreshment come, so as to be seduced by the latter, or deterred by the former [CHRYSOSTOM]. things . . . not seen--not "the invisible things" of Rom 1:20, but the things which, though not seen now, shall be so hereafter. temporal--rather, "for a time"; in contrast to eternal. English Version uses "temporal" for temporary. The Greek is rightly translated in the similar passage, "the pleasures of sin for a season." Next: 2 Corinthians Chapter 5
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:18 If we look at the troubles we can see now, we grow faint; but when we see our lives in the light of eternal reality, we know that our troubles will soon be gone.
2 Corinthians 4:18
Treasure in Jars of Clay
17For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison.18So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Free to Be Ourselves
By Norman Grubb12K49:45FreedomJHN 3:16JHN 5:191CO 10:132CO 4:18GAL 2:20HEB 4:121JN 1:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses three areas of understanding in relation to God's fatherhood. The first area is replacing negative seeing with positive seeing and living by faith. The second area is choosing our authority as sons of God, which is the word of faith. The third area is the privilege of the laid down life in intercession. The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing the power of the word of God and the need to labor to enter into rest. He encourages listeners to be themselves and to trust in God's ability to handle their lives.
Holy Ground
By David Wilkerson6.8K40:18HolinessMAT 6:19MAT 6:331CO 4:112CO 4:18HEB 11:13HEB 11:391PE 4:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a vision of Christ rather than just having ideas. He criticizes the preaching in the country today, stating that it lacks the true expression of Christ. The speaker questions why God often gives worldly success and riches to wicked individuals, highlighting that materialism is not valued by God. He also discusses the concept of holy ground and describes it as a spiritual condition of humbly walking with God and considering the world as a stranger. The speaker references biblical figures like Abraham and the apostles to illustrate the importance of living in poverty and persecution for the sake of magnifying God's grace.
The Meaning of Life - 3. Free to Be Ourselves
By Norman Grubb6.0K49:45Meaning Of LifeMAT 6:33JHN 3:16JHN 5:19JHN 14:102CO 4:18GAL 2:20HEB 4:12In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of replacing negative seeing with positive seeing and believing. He emphasizes the importance of living by positive seeing and choosing the authority of the word of faith as sons of God. The speaker also highlights the role of intercession and the laid down life in understanding the operations of God in fatherhood. Additionally, he mentions that the world is filled with temptations and challenges, but as believers, we have the ability to handle and overcome them. The sermon also touches on the difference between soul and spirit and the concept of entering into God's rest.
Witness of the Spirit - Part 2
By Leonard Ravenhill5.1K1:03:18Witness Of The SpiritMAT 5:1JHN 4:14ACT 20:24ROM 8:1ROM 8:312CO 4:18HEB 11:1In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the loss of appreciation for the beauty and majesty of the gospel among preachers today. He shares a criticism from a book review that resonated with him, emphasizing the need to regain a deep understanding of the gospel's significance. The preacher then uses biblical examples, such as the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fiery furnace, and Joseph's journey from being sold into slavery to becoming a ruler in Egypt, to illustrate the transformative power of going through trials and hardships. He encourages listeners to embrace difficult situations, as they can lead to spiritual growth and maturity.
Cain and Abel (The First Murder) - Part 1
By Art Katz4.5K58:28Cain and AbelGEN 4:3GEN 4:8PSA 1:1PSA 1:6MAT 6:33ACT 9:42CO 4:18In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a 10-day period of fasting and prayer where they were seeking a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. They acknowledge that God did not act in the way they expected because He is not required to perform miracles in our time. The speaker emphasizes that the church should not limit itself to this life only, but should have a comprehension of eternity and what lies beyond. They suggest that the church has a responsibility to be a prophetic voice, warning nations about the consequences of their ruthless ambitions, in order to avert violence and bloodshed.
"Stamp Eternity on My Eye Balls"
By Leonard Ravenhill4.4K00:24PSA 90:12MAT 25:462CO 4:18HEB 9:272PE 3:11This sermon emphasizes the profound impact that a true understanding of eternity and judgment can have on our lives, suggesting that if we truly grasped these concepts, we would be transformed as God's people. The speaker reflects on the power of having eternity and judgment imprinted on our hearts, highlighting the potential for a radical shift in perspective and behavior.
What Is Your Life
By Leonard Ravenhill3.9K1:36:541SA 17:37PSA 71:202CO 4:182CO 10:4EPH 6:10This sermon reflects on the hymn sung, acknowledging the millions still without God and the hope of a future gathering in heaven. It emphasizes enduring trials with God's guidance, seeking spiritual transformation, and the need to prioritize eternal matters over earthly concerns. The message draws parallels to the story of David facing Goliath, highlighting the importance of relying on God's strength in impossible situations.
Where to Look for Life
By Alan Redpath3.6K35:28LifePSA 121:1ISA 45:22MAT 6:33JHN 14:9ACT 4:12ROM 10:132CO 4:18In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a young man who was feeling miserable and burdened by his sins. On a cold winter day, the young man decided to attend a Methodist chapel instead of his intended church. The preacher, who was delayed by the weather, began the service and announced his text from Isaiah 45:22, "Look unto me and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth, for I am God, and there is none else." The preacher then directly addressed the young man, urging him to look to Jesus for salvation. In a powerful moment, the young man looked deep into his soul and found peace, joy, and a burden lifted from his heart.
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.
The Use of Your Time
By Steven J. Lawson2.8K1:02:48JOB 14:5PSA 90:12PSA 139:16LUK 14:13JHN 15:5JHN 19:301CO 10:312CO 4:18EPH 5:16This sermon delves into the life and resolutions of Jonathan Edwards, highlighting his unwavering commitment to glorifying God, his perspective on time and eternity, and his preparation for death. Edwards' resolutions focused on living with an eternal perspective, making the most of time, and considering the pains of martyrdom and hell. His life exemplified a dedication to pursuing God's will and maximizing every moment for God's glory, culminating in his faithful death at a young age.
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.
Fren-01 the Invisible Cloud of Witnesses
By Art Katz2.2K1:25:32Cloud of WitnessesMAT 25:302CO 4:18COL 3:2HEB 10:38HEB 11:12HEB 11:26HEB 12:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of not expressing resentment and not seeing oneself as a stranger or victim. He encourages the audience to recognize each other by the Spirit and put aside cultural barriers. The speaker highlights the need for Christians to see what is invisible and know that they have a better and enduring substance in heaven. He challenges the audience to consider if they truly see themselves as running a race in their Christian journey and if they believe they are surrounded by a cloud of invisible witnesses. The speaker urges the audience to settle something with God and seek His forgiveness for an inadequate Christianity.
The Sermon on the Mount - Part 2
By Leonard Ravenhill1.9K51:12Sermon on the MountGEN 3:8MAT 5:48ROM 8:82CO 4:18GAL 6:7JAS 4:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that the way the world lives is not aligned with God's plan. He highlights that the answer to all our problems cannot be achieved by human efforts alone, but rather through God's intervention. The preacher emphasizes that the kingdom of God is not found in physical structures like castles and mansions, but rather within each individual. He encourages Christians to have a godlike disposition and to focus on spiritual growth rather than worldly pursuits. The sermon also touches on the importance of living a life dedicated to God and doing His will, rather than seeking personal gain or recognition.
(Through the Bible) Genesis 39-41
By Chuck Smith1.7K1:01:07ExpositionalGEN 39:102SA 12:13MAT 6:33ROM 6:21CO 6:152CO 4:18HEB 11:27In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the purposes of God in his own life and how God prepared him for his ministry. He also discusses the story of Joseph and how God gave him insight into the future through dreams. The speaker emphasizes the importance of seeing beyond the temporary and material world and focusing on the spiritual and eternal. He concludes by acknowledging God's work in his life and surrendering himself to God's righteousness.
The Grace and Duty of Being Spiritually Minded #3
By John Owen1.5K1:31:11Audio BooksGEN 24:53MAT 19:211CO 13:92CO 4:182CO 8:1HEB 6:91JN 3:2In this sermon, the preacher provides special directions on how to discharge the duty of looking at things above and the state of future glory. He emphasizes the importance of possessing right notions and apprehensions of these spiritual realities. The preacher highlights that faith is necessary to have a prospect of these unseen things and that due consideration of the nature of God and man is required. He also addresses the various thoughts and apprehensions people have about the positive aspects of the future state, cautioning against being too attached to earthly things and encouraging a focus on spiritual growth.
True Treasure
By William MacDonald1.5K32:49Treasure In HeavenEXO 20:9PRO 10:4MAT 6:19MAT 6:33JHN 3:162CO 4:181TH 5:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of putting God's work above our own desires and needs. He highlights the biblical teaching of working hard for our current needs but also prioritizing the work of the Lord. The preacher encourages believers to lay up treasures in heaven rather than on earth, emphasizing the eternal value of investing in God's kingdom. He also reminds the audience that where our treasure is, there our heart will be, urging them to examine where their true treasure lies. Additionally, the preacher briefly touches on the topic of the eye being the lamp of the body, suggesting that our focus and perspective should be aligned with God's word.
The Humility of God
By Dean Stump1.4K1:15:23HumilityZEC 4:10MAT 6:33LUK 16:102CO 4:18PHP 1:231TI 4:12JAS 4:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the humility of God and how it should be reflected in our lives. He refers to Zechariah chapter four, highlighting the attention to detail that God has and how we should also pay attention to the small things in life. The preacher encourages the audience not to despise the day of small things, emphasizing the importance of how we live our lives, spend our money, and use our time. He shares a personal story of a friend who nearly died and questions why it takes such experiences for us to see God in a greater way.
Keeping Our Focus
By Debbie Meroff1.1K43:11FocusNUM 22:28NEH 8:1PSA 34:5MAT 6:332CO 4:18HEB 11:27In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of not being able to see spiritually and lacking the eyes of faith. He emphasizes the need to open the eyes of our hearts and see beyond the obvious circumstances. The sermon references the story of Ezra the scribe bringing out the book of the law of Moses and reading it aloud to the assembly. The preacher also mentions the importance of looking to Jesus and filling our hearts with the vision of Him before facing our daily lives.
(The Life of Jesus) His Temptations
By Earle Maxwell73135:22MAT 3:17MRK 1:121CO 10:132CO 4:18HEB 2:18HEB 4:15In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal story of facing doubt and temptation in their journey to become a Salvation Army officer. They recount a moment when they felt discouraged and questioned their path, but were met with unexpected kindness from a stranger who reminded them of Jesus. The speaker also reflects on the importance of fixing our eyes on Jesus and not allowing anything or anyone to take His place in our lives. They conclude by emphasizing the need to recognize and resist the temptations that Satan presents to us, just as Jesus did in the wilderness.
Your Call to Ministry
By John Gowans72636:11MAT 6:33JHN 4:23JHN 14:21JHN 14:23ROM 8:92CO 4:181TI 4:8In this sermon, the speaker begins by emphasizing the importance of obeying Jesus' commands and loving Him. He explains that those who love Jesus will be loved by the Father and Jesus will disclose Himself to them. The speaker highlights that God is seeking people who will worship Him in spirit and truth and desires a close relationship with them. He acknowledges that humans are flawed and sinful, but God still desires a relationship with them despite their imperfections. The speaker marvels at the idea that such a magnificent God would want a relationship with insignificant human beings.
Fren-01 Lenuage Invisiblede Tmoins (The Invisible Cloud of Witnesses)
By Art Katz5981:09:44Christian LifeMAT 6:332CO 4:18HEB 10:34HEB 11:12HEB 12:1In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his experience at a French meal in French-speaking Switzerland and compares it to the idea of taking joy in being stripped of earthly possessions. He references Hebrews 10:34, where Paul speaks of disciples who joyfully accepted the spoiling of their goods because they expected a heavenly reward. The speaker challenges the audience to have an apostolic and apocalyptic mindset, declaring war on the culture and unspoken premises of the world in order to see the invisible and eternal things of God. He emphasizes that true faith goes beyond correct doctrine and involves seeing the heavenly and knowing that there is a better and enduring substance in heaven. The speaker encourages the audience to not cast away their confidence, but to have patience and live for the eternal life to come. He also challenges the modern Christian mindset of simply avoiding sin and highlights the importance of seeing ourselves as running a race and being surrounded by a cloud of invisible witnesses.
Beholding the Glory of the Lord
By Rolfe Barnard53549:29Glory Of GodACT 9:62CO 3:182CO 4:52CO 4:152CO 4:18In this sermon, the preacher focuses on four key points from the passage of scripture in 2 Corinthians 3:18. The first point is that as believers, we have the privilege of beholding the glory of the Lord. This is not a burden or a set of rules, but a wonderful gift from God. The second point is that the purpose of this ministry is to bring about transformation in our lives, as we are changed into the image of Christ by the Spirit of the Lord. The third point highlights the fundamental difference between a saved sinner and a lost sinner, which is the ability to see and recognize the glory of God. Lastly, the preacher emphasizes the importance of keeping our focus on the glory of the Lord, as it is through continually beholding His glory that we are transformed and become more like Him.
The Supernatural Life
By Ken Baird43045:16MAT 6:34JHN 6:63ROM 15:41CO 2:142CO 2:92CO 4:18In this sermon, the speaker discusses the supernatural life that Christians are living. He begins by referencing Matthew 6:34, which encourages believers not to worry about the future, as God's providential dealings will take care of them. The speaker then refers to 2 Corinthians 4:15, emphasizing that although outwardly we may face afflictions, our inward man is renewed day by day. He goes on to highlight five aspects that demonstrate the supernatural nature of the Christian life, starting with the fact that believers have a supernatural book - the Bible. The speaker explains that the words spoken by Jesus and contained in the scriptures provide comfort, guidance, and answers to our problems.
Unveiled
By Glenn Meldrum34749:48Christian LifeMAT 6:33ROM 5:82CO 4:72CO 4:18EPH 2:8In this sermon, the speaker begins by telling a story about a man who becomes consumed with a treasure chest. The man becomes so fixated on the box that he forgets about the actual treasure inside. The speaker then transitions to the idea of Christ being unveiled in our lives. He references 2nd Corinthians 4:7-11, which talks about how we are like jars of clay that carry the treasure of God's power. The speaker emphasizes that even though we may face hardships and persecution, we should always remember that it is through our weaknesses that the life of Jesus is revealed in us.
The Saints Ruling in the Millennial Kingdom, Part 2
By Mike Bickle191:12:33Millennial KingdomFaithfulness and RewardsDAN 7:27MAT 11:28MAT 19:261CO 3:142CO 4:182CO 5:10COL 4:12HEB 9:271JN 2:28REV 20:4Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of the Millennial Kingdom, where saints will rule alongside Christ, highlighting that this theme is prevalent throughout the Bible yet often overlooked. He stresses the practical implications of understanding our current struggles in relation to our future roles in God's Kingdom, urging believers to strive for faithfulness in their lives. Bickle warns that not all believers will be rewarded equally, as only those deemed faithful will hold positions of authority in the Millennial reign. He encourages self-examination and repentance to avoid regret at the judgment seat of Christ, where our works will be evaluated. Ultimately, he calls for a life dedicated to pleasing God, as this will determine our eternal rewards.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
While we look not at the things which are seen - Μη σκοπουντων. While we aim not at the things which are seen; do not make them our object; are not striving to obtain them; for they are not worthy the pursuit of an immortal spirit, because they are seen; they are objects to which the natural eye can reach; and they are προσκαιρα, temporary; they are to have a short duration, and must have an end. But the things which we make our scope and aim are not seen; they are spiritual, and therefore invisible to the eye of the body; and besides, they are αιωνΐα, eternal - things that are permanent; that can have no end; they are things which belong to God; holiness, happiness, and the endless communication and fruition of himself. But we must remark that the light afflictions work out this far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory only to those who do not look at the things which are seen. A man may be grievously afflicted, and yet have his eye bent on temporal good; from his afflictions he can derive no benefit; though many think that their glorification must be a necessary consequence of their afflictions, and hence we do not unfrequently hear among the afflicted poor, "Well, we shall not suffer both here and in the other world too." Afflictions may be means of preparing us for glory, if, during them, we receive grace to save the soul; but afflictions of themselves have no spiritual nor saving tendency; on the contrary, they sour the unregenerated mind, and cause murmurings against the dispensations of Divine Providence. Let us, therefore, look to God, that they may be sanctified; and when they are, then we may say exultingly, These light afflictions, which are but for a moment, work for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. O world to come, in exchange for the present! O eternity, for a moment! O eternal communion in the holy, blessed, and eternal life of God, for the sacrifice of a poor, miserable, and corrupted life here on earth! Whoever sets no value on this seed of a blessed eternity knows not what it comprehends. That which the eyes of the flesh are capable of perceiving is not worthy of a soul capable of possessing God. Nothing which is of a perishable nature can be the chief good of a being that was made for eternity! - Quesnel.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
look not at--as our aim. things . . . seen--"earthly things" (Phi 3:19). We mind not the things seen, whether affliction or refreshment come, so as to be seduced by the latter, or deterred by the former [CHRYSOSTOM]. things . . . not seen--not "the invisible things" of Rom 1:20, but the things which, though not seen now, shall be so hereafter. temporal--rather, "for a time"; in contrast to eternal. English Version uses "temporal" for temporary. The Greek is rightly translated in the similar passage, "the pleasures of sin for a season." Next: 2 Corinthians Chapter 5
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:18 If we look at the troubles we can see now, we grow faint; but when we see our lives in the light of eternal reality, we know that our troubles will soon be gone.