2 Corinthians 4:5
Verse
Context
The Light of the Gospel
4The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers so they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.5For we do not proclaim ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. 6For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For we preach not ourselves - We neither proclaim our own wisdom nor power; we have nothing but what we have received; we do not wish to establish our own authority, nor to procure our own emolument. But Christ Jesus the Lord - We proclaim the author of this glorious Gospel as Christ, ὁ Χριστος, the same as המשיח hammashiach, the Messiah, the Anointed One; him of whom the prophets wrote; and who is the expectation, as he is the glory, of Israel, We proclaim him as Jesus יהושע Yehoshua, the Savior and Deliverer, who saves men from their sins. See Mat 1:21. And we proclaim Jesus of Nazareth to be the long-expected Messiah; and that there will be none other. And farther we proclaim this Jesus the Messiah to be the Lord, ὁ Κυριος, the great Ruler who has all power in heaven and earth; who made and governs the world; and who can save to the uttermost all that come to God through him. Such was the Redeemer preached by St. Paul. And ourselves your servants - Labouring as fervently and as faithfully for your eternal interests as your most trusty slaves can do for your secular welfare. And we do this for Christ's sake; for although we by our labor show ourselves to be your servants, yea, your slaves, δουλους, yet it is a voluntary service; and we are neither employed by you nor receive our wages from you. We belong to Jesus; and are your servants on his account, and by his order.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For--Their blindness is not our fault, as if we had self-seeking aims in our preaching. preach . . . Christ . . . the Lord--rather, "Christ as Lord," and ourselves as your servants, &c. "Lord," or "Master," is the correlative term to "servants."
John Gill Bible Commentary
For we preach not ourselves,.... These words contain a reason why the apostles behaved themselves in the manner described, Co2 4:2 and serve to explain in what sense this inspired writer is to be understood, when he calls the Gospel our Gospel, Co2 4:3 and most clearly proves the Gospel to be a glorious one, which he had asserted, Co2 4:4 since Christ, and not themselves, is the subject of it, "for we preach not ourselves". They did not preach any doctrine of their own devising; they did not set up themselves as lords over the faith and consciences of men; nor was their view in preaching to set forth their learning, parts, and eloquence, or to amass wealth and riches to themselves; nor did they assert the purity of human nature, or the power of man to do anything of himself that is spiritually good; or that justification and salvation are by works of righteousness done by men. To do any, or each, or all of these, as did the false apostles, is to preach a man's self: but so did not these faithful dispensers of the word, but they preached Christ Jesus the Lord; that is, the doctrines respecting the person, office, and grace of Christ; as that he is truly and properly God, the eternal and only begotten Son of God, God and man in one person, the only Mediator between God and man, and the Saviour and Redeemer of lost sinners; that Jesus of Nazareth is the Christ, the true Messiah; and that this Christ is Jesus, a Saviour, the only able and willing one; and that this Jesus Christ is "Lord" of all, especially of the saints; not only as Creator, but as their head, husband, and Redeemer; that peace and reconciliation, pardon and righteousness, life and salvation, are only by him: and they also declared themselves the servants of the churches, and ourselves your servants. The apostle does not say they were the servants of Christ, though they were, and esteemed it their greatest honour to be so; for he had no need to observe this, since this is included in their preaching him as "Lord": nor does he say they were the servants of men, or menpleasers, for then they would not be the servants of Christ; but he asserts them to be the servants of the churches: and which must be understood, not with respect to things temporal, with which they had no concern; but with regard to things spiritual, particularly to the ministration of the word, and administration of ordinances: and this they professed to be, for Jesus' sake; either for the sake of preaching Christ unto them; or because they were chosen and called by him to this service, and in which they were willing to continue, for the sake of his honour and interest.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:5 We preach that Jesus Christ is Lord: See also Rom 10:9-10; 1 Cor 12:3; Col 2:6.
2 Corinthians 4:5
The Light of the Gospel
4The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers so they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.5For we do not proclaim ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake. 6For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
When Preachers Do Not Preach Against Sin
By David Wilkerson6.6K51:30PSA 32:32CO 4:5In this sermon, the preacher tells the story of Nathan confronting King David about his sin. Nathan uses a parable about a rich man who steals a beloved lamb from his neighbor to illustrate David's own sin of taking another man's wife. The preacher emphasizes the importance of repentance and the need for the Word of God to convict and bring about change. He also highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in convicting and hounding individuals who have strayed from God. The sermon emphasizes the need for genuine remorse and restoration in the face of sin.
The Sifting Process
By David Wilkerson6.1K56:26Sifting2CO 4:5In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the concept of the sifting process as mentioned in Luke 22:31-32. He emphasizes that sifting times are sandwiched between revelation and usefulness in the life of a believer. The preacher highlights the importance of not preaching oneself, but rather preaching Christ Jesus. He encourages the congregation to trust in Jesus during times of sifting, as Jesus is praying for them and will restore them. The sermon concludes with the reminder that through the sifting process, God has an eternal purpose to rebuild and use believers for His glory.
The Indestructible Man (Kansas City) - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill3.7K42:53John The BaptistPSA 119:18LUK 12:49ACT 20:352CO 4:5GAL 6:17JAS 1:27In this sermon, the preacher begins by expressing gratitude for the holy word of God and the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for it. He acknowledges the Holy Spirit's role in enabling understanding of the scriptures. The preacher prays for a transformative experience for the listeners, urging them to break free from bondage, sorrow, sickness, poverty, and sin. He emphasizes the importance of the presence of God and the need for a spiritual revolution. The sermon also mentions the tragic nature of the prophet's calling and highlights the extraordinary power of walking with God.
(Exodus) Exodus 20:26
By J. Vernon McGee3.4K02:48ExpositionalEXO 20:26MAT 6:33JHN 1:29ROM 8:81CO 1:312CO 4:5GAL 6:14In this sermon, the preacher shares a personal story about a boy who was deeply moved by the message of Jesus. The preacher emphasizes the importance of focusing on Jesus rather than the preacher himself. He expresses his desire to preach about a beautiful savior rather than delivering a beautiful sermon. The preacher also highlights the significance of avoiding any display of the flesh in the ministry and church work, as God does not approve of it.
The Lordship of Christ
By Vance Havner3.3K32:18Lordship Of ChristZEC 9:9MAT 14:16MRK 4:35JHN 6:66ACT 9:62CO 4:5REV 1:8In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the concept of the Lordship of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that while many people may claim to believe in Jesus as Lord, not all are truly willing to submit to his authority in their lives. The preacher highlights the importance of not just proclaiming Jesus as Lord with our lips, but also obeying him in our actions. He explains that salvation is free, but becoming a disciple of Jesus requires a total surrender of everything we have. The preacher references biblical passages such as 2 Corinthians 4:5, Mark 4:35-41, and Luke 14:25-33 to support his points.
The Battle for Life (2 of 2)
By Art Katz2.3K1:02:24Life Of GodJOB 13:15PSA 27:41CO 2:12CO 4:5GAL 6:14PHP 3:10HEB 10:19In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of preaching the word of God with authenticity and power. He emphasizes that preaching is not about charisma or personal character, but about delivering the message of God. The preacher shares his own experience of initially being hesitant to listen to a sermon due to the speaker's accent and poor grammar, but being compelled by the life and power in the message. He highlights the significance of the veil being torn in the holiest place, allowing believers to boldly enter into God's presence. The sermon also touches on the need for a continuous supply of God's word and the importance of preaching with a sense of dread and reverence for the weight of the moment.
(Through the Bible) Philemon
By Chuck Smith2.0K57:34Through The BibleMAT 5:11ROM 1:11CO 10:312CO 4:5COL 3:17COL 3:23PHM 1:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's plan, even when we only see a part of the picture and cry out in dismay. He uses the example of Joseph and his father in Egypt to illustrate how God's plan is far wiser than anything we could devise. The speaker also highlights the story of Philemon and Onissimus to show that sometimes what may seem like a loss or a setback can actually be a part of God's plan to bring someone to faith. The sermon concludes with the reminder that Jesus paid it all for our sins and that we should live our lives for the glory of God.
Jesus Christ Himself
By C.H. Spurgeon2.0K51:51JHN 1:14ROM 10:41CO 2:22CO 4:5GAL 6:14PHP 3:10HEB 12:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of knowing Jesus and His teachings. He highlights that Jesus not only spoke about His teachings but also lived them out in His actions. The preacher challenges unbelievers to try and compose a narrative that harmoniously blends Jesus' divine and human nature, showcasing the authenticity of the four Gospels. The sermon concludes by emphasizing that Jesus gave Himself completely for humanity, sacrificing His crown, throne, and even His life on earth, making Him the soul of salvation.
Preaching Christ in the Power of the Spirit
By Arturo G. Azurdia1.4K1:10:00Preaching ChristLUK 24:32LUK 24:44JHN 17:17ACT 17:31CO 1:172CO 4:5HEB 4:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of living a worthy life based on the teachings of the Bible. He highlights the need to speak in a wholesome and uplifting manner, as it is a reflection of our response to God's grace. The preacher also emphasizes the importance of connecting moral imperatives with redemptive indicatives, meaning that our actions should be rooted in the gospel message. He encourages parents to teach their children to obey in the Lord, ensuring that they understand the gospel context behind their obedience. Additionally, the preacher emphasizes the need to understand the big story of the Bible, which is God's purpose to save his people through Jesus Christ, and to approach the study of the Bible with both a contextual and theological lens.
The Gospel of Christ's Glory
By Zac Poonen1.2K58:43ISA 55:62CO 3:182CO 4:32CO 4:5GAL 4:19This sermon emphasizes the importance of not hiding behind masks of pretense but seeking to be transformed into the likeness of Christ by the Holy Spirit. It challenges believers to focus on the gospel of the glory of Christ, to be open and transparent in their lives, and to serve others as slaves for Jesus' sake, not seeking personal honor or recognition.
Into the All Sufficiency of Christ #2 - Fulness
By Ed Miller94549:542CO 2:142CO 3:122CO 3:172CO 4:5COL 2:3In this sermon, the preacher focuses on 2 Corinthians 4 and 5 as the basis for his message. He emphasizes the importance of not preaching oneself, but rather preaching Christ Jesus as Lord and serving others as bond-servants for Jesus' sake. The preacher then introduces the concept of the Roman triumphus, a parade held in Rome after a victory, to illustrate the transformation that occurs when one becomes a bondservant of God and man. He highlights three key changes that take place when one crosses the line into this new way of living. The sermon also explores the process by which God creates a bondservant's heart and the need for believers to be pressed beyond their own limitations and into the all-sufficiency of the Lord Jesus.
Jesus Is Lord
By Vance Havner87533:02JesusLUK 14:26LUK 14:33JHN 8:31ACT 10:142CO 4:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of continuing in the word of God after experiencing a crisis of conversion. He highlights the verse "You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free," but emphasizes that it is crucial to understand the preceding verse, which states that one must continue in Jesus' word to truly be his disciple. The preacher criticizes the moral relativism and situational ethics prevalent in society, asserting that true morality is determined by God's word. He uses examples of a boy stealing a watermelon and the dedication of a famous pianist to illustrate the need for consistent practice and commitment in the Christian life.
The Gospel of the Devil! Believe It Not (2)
By Ian Paisley82630:262CO 4:32CO 4:5REV 1:5REV 1:14REV 11:15In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of the gospel of Christ to release people from their chains. He explains that the gospel shines through preaching and sets an example for others to follow. The preacher also highlights the role of God in bringing light into the darkness and how the devil blinds the minds of those who do not believe. The sermon concludes with a discussion of the attributes of Jesus as described in the book of Revelation.
Service
By Paris Reidhead74740:27Service2CO 4:5In this sermon, the speaker discusses the ministry received from the Lord. He emphasizes that valid ministry is one that is received from the Lord, to the Lord, and about the Lord. The speaker also highlights the importance of preaching Christ Jesus and not oneself. He mentions that God has given us the treasure of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ, and we are like earthen vessels that carry this treasure. The power and excellence of this ministry come from God, not from ourselves.
Battle Cry of N. T. Church - Jesus Is Lord!
By Rolfe Barnard54111:22JesusMAT 10:32ACT 4:12ROM 10:91CO 12:32CO 4:5PHP 2:101PE 3:15In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the message of the early Church and the reason for preaching the gospel. He emphasizes that the one message of the Church is the reason for having services and proclaiming the gospel. The speaker highlights the importance of bowing to Jesus and receiving the Holy Spirit for salvation. He also mentions that one day, all mankind will bow and confess the Lordship of Christ. The sermon emphasizes the need for repentance and discipleship in order to receive the power of God for salvation.
After Six Years
By Paris Reidhead20340:27Christian Life2CO 4:5In this sermon, the speaker discusses the ministry received from the Lord. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing that the power of ministry comes from God and not from ourselves. The speaker also highlights the need for Christians to renounce dishonesty and deceit in their ministry and instead manifest the truth to others. He reminds the audience that one day their ministry will be reviewed by the Lord, and encourages them to strive to fight the good fight, keep the faith, and finish the course in anticipation of receiving a crown of righteousness.
"We Have This Treasure in Earthen Vessels"
By A.W. Tozer0Divine TreasureHumility in Faith2CO 4:5A.W. Tozer emphasizes the profound truth that Christians possess a priceless treasure within their earthen vessels, highlighting the contrast between the divine nature of God and the frailty of human existence. He explains that this treasure, which is the presence of God, serves to remind believers of their dependence on Him and the need for humility. Tozer discusses the paradox of having such a glorious gift contained in weak and imperfect vessels, suggesting that this design keeps Christians grounded and reliant on God's grace. He encourages believers to embrace their weaknesses as a means of experiencing God's strength and to recognize the importance of humility in their spiritual journey. Ultimately, Tozer calls for a deeper understanding and experience of the divine treasure within, urging Christians to live in a way that reflects their identity as vessels of God's glory.
The Character of the Ministry of the Gospel 2 Corinthians 4:5
By John Nelson Darby0The Ministry of the GospelThe Glory of God2CO 4:5John Nelson Darby emphasizes that the character of the ministry of the gospel requires that one must first possess the truth of the gospel in their own heart before sharing it with others. He explains that the glory of God is revealed in the face of Jesus Christ, who has accomplished the work of salvation, allowing believers to see and reflect that glory. Darby contrasts the ministry of the New Testament with that of the Old Testament, highlighting the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in the believer's life. He encourages Christians to remain vigilant and prepared for Christ's return, emphasizing the importance of being filled with the knowledge of God's glory and living in a way that reflects that light. Ultimately, he calls for believers to recognize their identity in Christ and the hope of eternal glory that awaits them.
Christ Revealed as God's Pattern
By T. Austin-Sparks0The Purpose of the ChurchChrist as the Pattern2CO 4:5T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the revelation of Jesus Christ as the ultimate pattern for the Christian life and the Church. He explains that understanding Christ as God's Pattern is essential for believers to grasp their identity as 'bits of Christ' and to recognize the purpose of the Church as a collective expression of Christ. Sparks argues that true ministry and evangelism should focus on increasing the measure of Christ in believers and the world, rather than merely counting conversions or establishing institutions. He calls for a revolution in the Church to align with this vision, highlighting that the essence of Christianity is Christ Himself, who should be the center of all activities and relationships within the Church. Ultimately, Sparks urges believers to embody Christ in their lives, as He is the foundation and purpose of their existence.
7. the Centrality of Jesus Christ
By Chuck Smith0Worship PracticesCentrality of ChristLEV 10:1MAT 6:1ACT 5:11CO 1:292CO 4:5Chuck Smith emphasizes the centrality of Jesus Christ in worship at Calvary Chapel, arguing that any behavior that draws attention away from Him is detrimental to the congregation's focus. He shares personal experiences of distractions during worship, such as individuals standing or performing interpretive dances, which shift the congregation's attention from Jesus to the individual. Smith advocates for addressing these distractions lovingly and firmly, ensuring that worship remains centered on Christ. He warns against the dangers of seeking personal glory in worship, citing biblical examples like Nadab and Abihu and Ananias and Sapphira, who faced severe consequences for drawing attention to themselves instead of honoring God. Ultimately, Smith calls for a commitment to keeping Jesus as the focal point of worship to foster a genuine and edifying church environment.
About Theodore Austin-Sparks
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual GrowthCentrality of Christ2CO 4:5EPH 4:13PHP 3:8COL 1:28T. Austin-Sparks, born in London in 1888, experienced a transformative crisis that led him to abandon his denominational ties and focus solely on the ministry of Christ. His commitment to the spoken Word of God emphasized its relevance to the spiritual needs of believers, directing attention away from himself to Christ as the central message. Through his bi-monthly magazine 'A Witness and A Testimony', he sought to deepen the understanding of Jesus Christ and the purpose of salvation among God's people. Despite facing opposition, he remained dedicated to his calling, believing that true ministry should lead others to a fuller knowledge of Christ. His legacy continues through his writings and teachings, which aim to establish believers in the fullness of Christ.
Philippians 2:1-4
By St. John Chrysostom01SA 2:30PSA 51:16DAN 2:30ACT 3:121CO 4:32CO 4:5PHP 2:2John Chrysostom preaches on the importance of unity, love, and humility among believers, emphasizing the need to have the same mind, love one another, and be of one accord. He urges against selfish ambition, vainglory, and factionalism, highlighting the significance of considering others better than oneself. Chrysostom stresses that true joy is found in fulfilling the joy of others through compassion, love, and tender mercies, ultimately reflecting the love and fellowship in Christ.
Colossians 4:5, 6
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 10:16ACT 17:22ROM 12:151CO 5:122CO 4:5EPH 6:21COL 4:5HEB 13:3John Chrysostom preaches on the importance of walking in wisdom towards those outside the faith, redeeming the time and being gracious in speech. He emphasizes the need to be cautious and wise in interactions with non-believers, avoiding unnecessary conflicts and being mindful of how to respond to each person appropriately. Chrysostom encourages believers to be moderate, gracious, and bold in their speech, tailored to edify and build up others. He highlights the significance of supporting fellow believers, sharing in their joys, and refraining from envy, as it ultimately harms oneself and the body of Christ.
The Supremacy of Preaching Christ Himself
By Bryan Anthony0JHN 14:6ACT 8:5ROM 3:251CO 1:231CO 2:22CO 4:5GAL 6:14COL 1:271PE 2:24Bryan Anthony preaches on the essentiality of focusing solely on Jesus Christ and His crucifixion in all aspects of preaching and ministry. He emphasizes that all other teachings, doctrines, or religions fall short of the glory of God and the salvational reality found only in Christ. Anthony highlights the missionary message of Christ as the propitiation for our sins and the need for a radical jealousy for Christ to be glorified in true proclamation.
Experimental Religion
By Thomas Reade01CO 10:122CO 4:5EPH 3:16COL 1:91TH 3:122TI 1:12HEB 4:11JN 2:31JN 4:1REV 3:2Thomas Reade preaches on the importance of Experimental Religion, emphasizing the deep personal knowledge and experience of Christ that believers should strive for, as seen in the lives of Paul and John. He highlights the need for spiritual wisdom, understanding, and a rich experience of God's love through the Holy Spirit. Reade warns against the dangers of unbelief, self-deception, and the fear of man, urging believers to hold fast to the truth of Scripture and to walk in the light of God's Word.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For we preach not ourselves - We neither proclaim our own wisdom nor power; we have nothing but what we have received; we do not wish to establish our own authority, nor to procure our own emolument. But Christ Jesus the Lord - We proclaim the author of this glorious Gospel as Christ, ὁ Χριστος, the same as המשיח hammashiach, the Messiah, the Anointed One; him of whom the prophets wrote; and who is the expectation, as he is the glory, of Israel, We proclaim him as Jesus יהושע Yehoshua, the Savior and Deliverer, who saves men from their sins. See Mat 1:21. And we proclaim Jesus of Nazareth to be the long-expected Messiah; and that there will be none other. And farther we proclaim this Jesus the Messiah to be the Lord, ὁ Κυριος, the great Ruler who has all power in heaven and earth; who made and governs the world; and who can save to the uttermost all that come to God through him. Such was the Redeemer preached by St. Paul. And ourselves your servants - Labouring as fervently and as faithfully for your eternal interests as your most trusty slaves can do for your secular welfare. And we do this for Christ's sake; for although we by our labor show ourselves to be your servants, yea, your slaves, δουλους, yet it is a voluntary service; and we are neither employed by you nor receive our wages from you. We belong to Jesus; and are your servants on his account, and by his order.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For--Their blindness is not our fault, as if we had self-seeking aims in our preaching. preach . . . Christ . . . the Lord--rather, "Christ as Lord," and ourselves as your servants, &c. "Lord," or "Master," is the correlative term to "servants."
John Gill Bible Commentary
For we preach not ourselves,.... These words contain a reason why the apostles behaved themselves in the manner described, Co2 4:2 and serve to explain in what sense this inspired writer is to be understood, when he calls the Gospel our Gospel, Co2 4:3 and most clearly proves the Gospel to be a glorious one, which he had asserted, Co2 4:4 since Christ, and not themselves, is the subject of it, "for we preach not ourselves". They did not preach any doctrine of their own devising; they did not set up themselves as lords over the faith and consciences of men; nor was their view in preaching to set forth their learning, parts, and eloquence, or to amass wealth and riches to themselves; nor did they assert the purity of human nature, or the power of man to do anything of himself that is spiritually good; or that justification and salvation are by works of righteousness done by men. To do any, or each, or all of these, as did the false apostles, is to preach a man's self: but so did not these faithful dispensers of the word, but they preached Christ Jesus the Lord; that is, the doctrines respecting the person, office, and grace of Christ; as that he is truly and properly God, the eternal and only begotten Son of God, God and man in one person, the only Mediator between God and man, and the Saviour and Redeemer of lost sinners; that Jesus of Nazareth is the Christ, the true Messiah; and that this Christ is Jesus, a Saviour, the only able and willing one; and that this Jesus Christ is "Lord" of all, especially of the saints; not only as Creator, but as their head, husband, and Redeemer; that peace and reconciliation, pardon and righteousness, life and salvation, are only by him: and they also declared themselves the servants of the churches, and ourselves your servants. The apostle does not say they were the servants of Christ, though they were, and esteemed it their greatest honour to be so; for he had no need to observe this, since this is included in their preaching him as "Lord": nor does he say they were the servants of men, or menpleasers, for then they would not be the servants of Christ; but he asserts them to be the servants of the churches: and which must be understood, not with respect to things temporal, with which they had no concern; but with regard to things spiritual, particularly to the ministration of the word, and administration of ordinances: and this they professed to be, for Jesus' sake; either for the sake of preaching Christ unto them; or because they were chosen and called by him to this service, and in which they were willing to continue, for the sake of his honour and interest.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:5 We preach that Jesus Christ is Lord: See also Rom 10:9-10; 1 Cor 12:3; Col 2:6.