2 Corinthians 4:6
Verse
Context
The Light of the Gospel
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
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness - The apostle refers here to Gen 1:3. For when God created the heavens and the earth Darkness was on the face of the deep; and God said, Let There Be Light; and there was light. Thus he caused the light to shine out of darkness. Hath shined in our hearts - He has given our hearts the glorious light of the Gospel, as he has given the world the glorious light of the sun. As sure, therefore, as God is the author of the light and the creator of the universe, so sure is he the author of the Gospel; it is no human invention; and is as far beyond the power of man's wisdom and might, as the creation of the world is beyond all created power, energy, and skill. The light of the knowledge - To give us that light, that we might enlighten others; this appears to me to be the design of the apostle's προς φωτισμον της γνωσεως της δοξης του Θεου, or, as Dr. Whitby paraphrases it, to give us, and enable us to give to others, the light of the knowledge of God through Christ. In the face of Jesus Christ - It is in and through Jesus that we can receive the Divine light, and it is in and by him that we can be made partakers of the Divine glory. The light mercy, holiness, and glory of God, are reflected upon and communicated to us through Jesus the Christ; and it is εν προσωπῳ, in the appearance and person of Jesus Christ that these blessings are communicated to us.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For--proof that we are true servants of Jesus unto you. commanded the light--Greek, "By speaking the word, commanded light" (Gen 1:3). hath shined--rather, as Greek, "is He who shined." (It is God) who commanded light, &c., that shined, &c., (Job 37:15): Himself our Light and Sun, as well as the Creator of light (Mal 4:2; Joh 8:12). The physical world answers to the spiritual. in our hearts--in themselves dark. to give the light--that is, to propagate to others the light, &c., which is in us (compare Note, see on Co2 4:4). the glory of God--answering to "the glory of Christ" (see on Co2 4:4). in the face of Jesus Christ--Some of the oldest manuscripts retain "Jesus." Others omit it. Christ is the manifestation of the glory of God, as His image (Joh 14:9). The allusion is still to the brightness on Moses' "face." The only true and full manifestation of God's brightness and glory is "in the face of Jesus" (Heb 1:3).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness,.... The causal particle for, shows these words to be also a reason of the foregoing; either why they so clearly beheld the glory of the Lord, Co2 4:18 or why they renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, Co2 4:2 or why their Gospel could not be hid, Co2 4:3 or why they did not preach themselves, but Christ, Co2 4:5 because God had shined in their hearts; and in this light, they saw the glory of Christ; could not bear any secret, hidden, scandalous practices; and held forth the word of light and life to others; and seeing so much of their own weakness, sinfulness, and unworthiness, dared not to preach themselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; in which may be observed the character of the true God, as opposed to Satan, the god of this world, who is said to blind the minds of men, Co2 4:6 whereas the true God is represented as the author of "light", and as producing it by a word of "command", and that "out" of mere "darkness"; respect is here had to the creation of all things at the beginning, when "darkness was upon the face of the deep--and God said, let there be light and there was light", Gen 1:2. Now this character of God, as creating light in this wonderful manner, is prefaced to his giving spiritual light unto his people; because of the agreement there is between light corporeal and spiritual, in their nature and production; for as there was darkness upon the earth before there was light, so there is a natural darkness in the minds of men, before any spiritual light is infused into them; and as light was the first production out of the dark and unformed chaos, so light is the first thing that is struck into the soul in conversion; moreover, as light was the effect of almighty power, so is the spiritual illumination, or the opening of the eyes of the understandings of men, who are naturally born blind; and as light was a creation of that which was not before, so the work of grace on the soul is not an increase of, or an addition to, or an improvement of the light of nature, but it is a new light, created in the understanding; add to all this, that both corporeal and spiritual light are good, and both called "day"; the influence that God has over the hearts of men, and the effect he produces there are, he hath shined in our hearts. The hearts of men are like this dark terraqueous globe, having no light in them; God is as the sun, the fountain of light, which shines upon them and in them; so as to give them a true sight and sense of sin, and of their lost state and condition; so as to cause them to see the fulness and suitableness of Christ as a Saviour; so as to warm their affections, and draw out their desires after Christ, his ways, truths, ordinances, and people; and so as to give them light into the mysteries of the Gospel; particularly he so shines into the hearts of some, whom be makes ministers of the Gospel, as to give more light and knowledge into Gospel truths, than he does to others; and his end in doing this, is to give: that is, that his ministering servants may give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ; men must be first made light in, and by the Lord, or they will never be fit and proper persons to hold forth the word of light, or to communicate light to others; God first shines into their hearts, and then they give light to others: by "the glory of God" is not meant the essential glory of God, or the perfections of his nature, though these are to be seen in the face, or person of Christ; but rather the glorious counsels of God, and scheme of salvation by Jesus Christ; or in other words, the glorious Gospel of God: and by "the knowledge" of it is designed, not a mere notional speculative knowledge of the Gospel, but an experimental one; a spiritual knowledge of the Gospel, of Christ in it, of God in Christ, and of an interest in God's salvation by Christ: now when the ministers of the word are said to give the light of this to men, or to enlighten them with this knowledge, it cannot be thought that they are the efficient causes, for such are only Jehovah, Father, Son, and Spirit; but only that they are instrumental, and are means in the hands of God, of bringing persons to see the fellowship of this mystery: all which is done, "in the face of Jesus Christ"; this denotes the clearness and perspicuity of their ministry, and of that knowledge which is communicated by it; see Co2 3:12 and also the authority by which they act; it is in the name and person of Christ, in which sense the phrase is used, Co2 2:10.
2 Corinthians 4:6
The Light of the Gospel
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
(Heavenly Vision) 1 - the Necessity of Heavenly Vision
By Stephen Kaung8.1K1:18:31GEN 1:3PRO 29:18ACT 9:32CO 4:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that every person has a master, and that master is God. He explains that we are born into this world with a purpose, which is to serve God's will. However, many people fail to understand this and live their lives for their own satisfaction, forgetting about God. The preacher highlights the importance of having a heavenly vision and being united in purpose as children of God. He also mentions the transformative power of God's grace, comparing it to a heavenly light that illuminates our lives and guides us out of darkness.
(Christ) the Power of Christ-Centered Theology - Part 1
By Denny Kenaston3.9K1:07:15Christ CenteredEXO 33:18MAT 22:37JHN 1:14ACT 2:412CO 3:182CO 4:6COL 1:18In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the growth of a church and the impact of preaching about Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the importance of surrendering one's life to Christ and allowing revival to be a daily reality. The speaker shares the joy of taking people to New York City to preach and fellowship about Christ, witnessing the transformation in their hearts. However, the speaker expresses concern about the low demand for sermons about Jesus Christ compared to practical topics. He encourages listeners to recognize the centrality of Christ in their lives and the edifying effect of preaching about Him.
The Glory of God and the Image of Jealousy
By Carter Conlon3.4K1:00:19JealouslyPRO 29:18EZK 8:17EZK 9:4EZK 11:16ROM 1:322CO 3:182CO 4:6In this sermon, the preacher warns the congregation about the dangers of turning away from God and indulging in sinful behavior. He emphasizes that those who take pleasure in wickedness and do not retain God in their knowledge will face consequences. The preacher references the story of Ezekiel, where God instructs him to set a mark on those who sigh and cry for the abominations being committed. He also highlights the importance of having a true sight of the divine presence and the role of the Holy Spirit in restraining lawlessness. The sermon concludes with a call to put away false idols and turn to the true husband, Jesus Christ, and to seek the glory of God in our lives.
The New Creation - Part 1
By T. Austin-Sparks3.1K19:36New CreationGEN 1:3GEN 2:24ROM 5:121CO 15:221CO 15:452CO 4:6EPH 5:31In this sermon, the speaker tells a story about a man who was captured by a Roman general. Initially, the man was rebellious, but as he observed the general's way of life, he began to admire him. Eventually, the general offered the man his freedom, but the man chose to stay with the general because he had come to realize that the general was more powerful and admirable than he had initially thought. The speaker uses this story to illustrate the concept of surrendering to Jesus Christ and how it leads to a joyful and fulfilling life. The sermon also references passages from the Bible, such as 2 Corinthians 4 and Romans 5, to support the idea of the old and new creations in Christ.
Amazing Love Profile of the Hymn
By William MacDonald2.9K34:20HymnologyGEN 1:3MAT 6:33JHN 8:12ACT 26:182CO 4:6EPH 5:141PE 2:9In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the state of a soul without Jesus Christ, describing it as being imprisoned, in bondage, and in shame. He emphasizes that being unsaved is actually a form of slavery to sin, Satan, and self. The preacher then highlights the transformative power of the gospel, using the example of Charles Wesley's experience. Wesley's spiritual awakening is likened to a dungeon being flooded with light, and his chains of sin falling off, resulting in a heart set free to please God. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the importance of responding to the gospel invitation and following Jesus.
The Faces of Jesus
By J. Oswald Sanders2.8K55:11JesusPSA 27:8ISA 52:14MAT 25:342CO 3:182CO 4:61JN 3:2REV 21:23In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of catching a vision of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. This vision will ignite a lifelong zeal to make Jesus known. The speaker encourages the audience to turn their eyes upon Jesus and focus on his wonderful face, as this will cause the things of earth to fade away in comparison to his glory and grace. The sermon also highlights the patience and love of God, as well as the significance of Jesus' marred face and scarred body in revealing the love and glory of God to humanity.
(Divine Attributes) 02 a High and Lofty View of God
By Denny Kenaston2.5K51:35Character Of GodGEN 1:3MAT 5:82CO 4:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a high and lofty view of God. He mentions that he has been influenced by A.W. Tozer's book, "The Knowledge of the Holy," and sermons on the attributes of God. The preacher highlights the consequences of losing a lofty view of God, using the example of people in the Bible who rejected God's truth and lived in wickedness. He warns that America is also surrendering its view of God and predicts a future of debauchery if the nation continues on this path. The sermon concludes with an invitation to seek God's will and make copies of the message to share with others.
Nature and Purpose of the Church Now and in the After Ages
By T. Austin-Sparks2.4K1:17:22Eternal PurposeGEN 1:3MAT 6:33JHN 1:4ACT 26:182CO 4:6EPH 5:81PE 2:9In this sermon, T. Austin Sparks discusses the great transition from one humanity to another in the divine economy. He emphasizes the importance of having a heavenly vision, as Apostle Paul did, which reveals the place and destiny of man, the nature and dynamic of ministry, the nature and purpose of the Church, and the significance of Christ's crucifixion, resurrection, and exaltation. Sparks emphasizes that true ministry is centered on Christ and that people should encounter Christ when they meet a minister. He also highlights the importance of personally seeing Jesus in order to truly understand the Church.
Revelation of Jesus Christ - Part 8 of 10
By T. Austin-Sparks2.3K59:15Jesus ChristGEN 1:3MAT 6:33JHN 1:1JHN 14:62CO 4:6GAL 1:15COL 1:15In this sermon, the speaker discusses the fall of man and the earth after Adam disobeyed God. The consequences of this fall were immense and far-reaching. However, God did not abandon humanity but reacted with new energy and application towards His Son. The speaker emphasizes the cosmic conflict between God and the serpent, and how God's power and energy are focused on bringing about the victory of His Son.
His Light Shines
By Basilea Schlink2.2K01:01PSA 27:1PSA 30:5ISA 9:2JHN 8:12JHN 16:222CO 4:6This sermon focuses on the darkness that may surround us during Christmas, whether in the world situation or in our personal relationships and hearts. It highlights the prophecy of Isaiah about the coming of Christ as a great light to those in darkness, emphasizing the hope and joy that Jesus brings. The message encourages looking to Jesus, the radiant sun, who draws us into His kingdom of light, where His light shines brightly and His joy surpasses all sorrows.
The Place and Destiny of Man in the Divine Economy
By T. Austin-Sparks2.1K1:03:42Destiny Of ManMAT 6:33ROM 1:162CO 4:42CO 4:6GAL 1:15EPH 1:17COL 1:27In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a comprehensive and revolutionary vision of Jesus Christ. He explains that Jesus is the summation of all of God's previous forms and ways of self-revelation. The speaker also highlights four major aspects that come with truly seeing Jesus: understanding the place and destiny of man in God's economy, grasping the nature and dynamic of ministry in this dispensation, recognizing the nature and purpose of the church now and in the future, and acknowledging the immense significance of Christ crucified, risen, and exalted. The speaker references 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 to support his points.
The Significance of Jesus Christ Crucified, Risen, and Exalted
By T. Austin-Sparks2.1K1:07:51Christ CrucifiedPSA 119:18ISA 6:1MAL 4:6MAT 16:24JHN 12:212CO 4:6GAL 6:14In this sermon, the speaker discusses the theme of the closing of the book in failure in the Old Testament. He explains that the New Testament introduces a new humanity brought in by Jesus Christ. The speaker emphasizes that the Apostle Paul had a profound vision of Jesus Christ, which revealed four important things to him. These include the place and destiny of humanity after Christ, the nature of a life ministry during the period between Jesus' ascension and second coming, and the fact that Satan's activities can be used by God for His purposes. The sermon concludes by highlighting the failure of the old humanity in the Old Testament and the transition to the new humanity in the New Testament.
Revelation of Jesus Christ - Part 10 of 10
By T. Austin-Sparks2.1K41:29Jesus ChristMAT 6:33ROM 3:22ROM 8:92CO 3:182CO 4:62CO 5:212CO 12:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses the fear of failure and falling short in our spiritual journey. He emphasizes the need for certain provisions to overcome these fears. The speaker then focuses on the face of Jesus Christ as the purpose, pattern, and provision of God. He highlights the sufficiency of Christ's righteousness, the work of the Holy Spirit in transforming us, and the grace available to us in times of suffering and affliction. The sermon concludes with a call to look into the face of Jesus and find the answer to all our needs.
Treasure in Earthen Vessels
By Gayle Erwin2.0K44:39Christ In YouGEN 1:3MAT 6:33JHN 1:52CO 3:172CO 4:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the contrast between the flesh and the mercy of God. He highlights the importance of knowing oneself and exposing it to God in order to receive His mercy and forgiveness. The preacher also warns against the deceptive mindset that we can achieve success and salvation through our own efforts, emphasizing that only the mercy of God can truly save us. He shares examples of false teachings and methods used by some individuals to manipulate and deceive people, emphasizing the need to preach Christ Jesus as the true source of salvation.
The Acropolis of the Christian Faith
By Paul Washer2.0K1:06:37MAT 10:38ROM 3:23ROM 3:282CO 4:6PHP 3:10HEB 9:22REV 5:13In this sermon, the speaker begins by presenting a hypothetical scenario where a person's entire family is brutally murdered and the murderer is shown mercy by the judge. The speaker then goes on to describe another scenario where a slave who deserves death for stealing pleads for mercy from his master. The speaker emphasizes that justice must be satisfied before forgiveness can be granted. He explains that God, in His justice, sent His only begotten Son to be slaughtered on the cross to appease His wrath and satisfy justice. The speaker concludes by stating that the revelation of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ should be the motivation for all Christian actions.
The Pursuit of the Living God
By Denny Kenaston1.9K1:21:56Pursuing GodMAT 6:33MAT 11:28JHN 1:142CO 4:6In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking a revelation of who God is. He highlights that despite our knowledge and understanding of various worldly things, it is crucial to have a deep understanding and pursuit of God. The speaker also points out that our view of God has changed over time, leading to a low view of God and a high view of ourselves. He urges the audience to follow the example of those who walk in the ways of Christ and warns against being enemies of the cross of Christ. The sermon concludes with a call to earnestly seek the Lord, to know Him, and to put on the Lord Jesus Christ, making no provision for the flesh.
God Speaks and Watches Over Us
By Zac Poonen1.9K58:42SovereigntyGEN 1:3MAT 6:332CO 4:6In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the concept of daily renewal and transformation. He refers to Genesis 1, where God progressively improved the earth each day, as a metaphor for the renovation of our lives. The speaker encourages listeners to not lose heart, even as our outward selves may decay, because our inner selves are being renewed day by day. He emphasizes that this process of renewal will ultimately lead to us becoming like Jesus Christ. The speaker also highlights the goodness of God's word and how it is meant to bring about positive change in our lives.
Discerning Spiritual Things
By Major Ian Thomas1.8K1:03:17SpiritualityACT 9:12CO 4:6In this sermon, the speaker discusses the purpose of human creation and the image of God in man. He emphasizes that God created man so that all of creation could look at him and know what God is like. The speaker also highlights that the evaluation of a person by God is based on their reflection of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. He uses examples of a lamp needing oil and a car needing gas to illustrate the necessity of God's life and power in man. The sermon concludes with a reference to the conversation between Jesus and Nicodemus about the need for spiritual regeneration to enter the kingdom of God.
The River of God
By Zac Poonen1.7K54:43Deeper LifeJHN 1:14JHN 4:14ROM 6:142CO 1:202CO 4:6PHP 4:4PHP 4:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the power of God to use anyone for His purposes. He shares a story of a young girl who became a catalyst for many people coming to the Lord. The speaker encourages the audience to be open to opportunities to share the gospel, even in unexpected encounters. He also warns about the dangers of being drawn to worldly pleasures and impurity, urging the listeners to find satisfaction in God's Word and living water. The sermon emphasizes the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit and being mindful of the influences around us.
New Beginnings - Gideon's Army I
By George Warnock1.7K1:19:45BeginningsGEN 1:3PSA 78:2ISA 55:10JHN 5:461CO 2:102CO 4:6HEB 10:5In this sermon, the preacher discusses the book of Judges and how God allowed areas of resistance to remain in the land so that the younger generation could learn war. The preacher emphasizes that God's principles of truth must be established within us so that we are ready for any challenges that come our way. The sermon also mentions the story of the Israelites receiving manna from heaven and how they gorged themselves on quail sent by God in anger. The preacher highlights the importance of relying on God for our daily bread and not accumulating wealth for selfish purposes. Additionally, the sermon touches on the topic of discipline and the consequences of not correcting children, leading to rebellion and societal issues.
Easter Conference 1979-03 New Creation
By Aldy Fam Fanous1.7K37:10EasterGEN 1:9ACT 1:82CO 4:62CO 6:17GAL 5:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of spending time in fellowship with God. He compares the fast-paced and busy nature of life in the USA to the need for individuals to slow down and prioritize their relationship with God. The speaker also discusses the concept of life, both in the physical and spiritual sense, highlighting the significance of accepting Jesus as the light of the world. He references the creation story in Genesis, pointing out that God values one soul more than the entire material universe. The sermon concludes with a call to become a new creation and prioritize the eternal over the temporal.
Sons of Korah #1: Lesson of Hope: Psalms 42
By Stephen Kaung1.6K58:01Sons of KorahPSA 42:1MAT 6:332CO 3:172CO 4:6In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the verses from 2 Corinthians chapter 3 and 4, specifically verse 6 and verse 17. The main theme is the revelation of God's glory in the face of Jesus Christ and the freedom that comes from the presence of the Holy Spirit. The preacher emphasizes the significance of being able to see the face of God and how the veil has been removed through Jesus. The sermon also touches on the psalm written by David during a time of rebellion and danger, highlighting the importance of seeking after God and having the consciousness of His abiding presence.
Tokens of His Compassion - Part 9
By Leonard Ravenhill1.5K07:15ISA 53:6ISA 61:1MAT 16:24LUK 9:23JHN 12:27JHN 17:1ROM 12:12CO 4:6PHP 3:8This sermon delves into the deep desire to see the world through God's eyes, acknowledging the need for divine revelation to expose hidden corruption and hypocrisy. It emphasizes the importance of trembling at God's word and the gravity of preaching the gospel. The speaker reflects on Jesus' strength and unwavering commitment to God's will, highlighting the necessity of making sacrificial decisions and fully surrendering to God's purpose. The sermon also touches on the transformative power of encountering God's glory and the profound impact of intimate relationship with Him.
What Makes the Good News Good? Seeing the Glory of Christ
By John Piper1.4K48:24ACT 26:172CO 3:172CO 4:42CO 4:6In this sermon, the preacher explores the concept of the gospel as good news and questions what the highest, best, and final good of the gospel is. He suggests various possibilities such as justification by faith, forgiveness of sins, and salvation from hell. The preacher then moves on to discuss the role of messengers in bringing about salvation, highlighting the parallel between Acts 26 and 2 Corinthians 4. He emphasizes that while God alone can give life and light, He chooses to use people as messengers to open the eyes of others. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the importance of patient teaching and the relational component in sharing the gospel, referencing 2 Timothy 2. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the ultimate goal of the gospel as the revelation of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ and the need for individuals to embrace and treasure this revelation for their everlasting satisfaction.
You Must Be Born Again Why This Series and Where Are We Going?
By John Piper1.3K41:41EZK 36:26JHN 3:8ROM 8:302CO 4:6EPH 2:51PE 1:231JN 5:4This sermon emphasizes the necessity and transformative power of being born again by the Spirit of God. It challenges the worldly perception of 'born again' Christians and calls for a genuine experience of regeneration through the Word of God. The speaker highlights the need for true believers to live distinctively and seeks a revival of authentic faith in the church and society.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness - The apostle refers here to Gen 1:3. For when God created the heavens and the earth Darkness was on the face of the deep; and God said, Let There Be Light; and there was light. Thus he caused the light to shine out of darkness. Hath shined in our hearts - He has given our hearts the glorious light of the Gospel, as he has given the world the glorious light of the sun. As sure, therefore, as God is the author of the light and the creator of the universe, so sure is he the author of the Gospel; it is no human invention; and is as far beyond the power of man's wisdom and might, as the creation of the world is beyond all created power, energy, and skill. The light of the knowledge - To give us that light, that we might enlighten others; this appears to me to be the design of the apostle's προς φωτισμον της γνωσεως της δοξης του Θεου, or, as Dr. Whitby paraphrases it, to give us, and enable us to give to others, the light of the knowledge of God through Christ. In the face of Jesus Christ - It is in and through Jesus that we can receive the Divine light, and it is in and by him that we can be made partakers of the Divine glory. The light mercy, holiness, and glory of God, are reflected upon and communicated to us through Jesus the Christ; and it is εν προσωπῳ, in the appearance and person of Jesus Christ that these blessings are communicated to us.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For--proof that we are true servants of Jesus unto you. commanded the light--Greek, "By speaking the word, commanded light" (Gen 1:3). hath shined--rather, as Greek, "is He who shined." (It is God) who commanded light, &c., that shined, &c., (Job 37:15): Himself our Light and Sun, as well as the Creator of light (Mal 4:2; Joh 8:12). The physical world answers to the spiritual. in our hearts--in themselves dark. to give the light--that is, to propagate to others the light, &c., which is in us (compare Note, see on Co2 4:4). the glory of God--answering to "the glory of Christ" (see on Co2 4:4). in the face of Jesus Christ--Some of the oldest manuscripts retain "Jesus." Others omit it. Christ is the manifestation of the glory of God, as His image (Joh 14:9). The allusion is still to the brightness on Moses' "face." The only true and full manifestation of God's brightness and glory is "in the face of Jesus" (Heb 1:3).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness,.... The causal particle for, shows these words to be also a reason of the foregoing; either why they so clearly beheld the glory of the Lord, Co2 4:18 or why they renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, Co2 4:2 or why their Gospel could not be hid, Co2 4:3 or why they did not preach themselves, but Christ, Co2 4:5 because God had shined in their hearts; and in this light, they saw the glory of Christ; could not bear any secret, hidden, scandalous practices; and held forth the word of light and life to others; and seeing so much of their own weakness, sinfulness, and unworthiness, dared not to preach themselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; in which may be observed the character of the true God, as opposed to Satan, the god of this world, who is said to blind the minds of men, Co2 4:6 whereas the true God is represented as the author of "light", and as producing it by a word of "command", and that "out" of mere "darkness"; respect is here had to the creation of all things at the beginning, when "darkness was upon the face of the deep--and God said, let there be light and there was light", Gen 1:2. Now this character of God, as creating light in this wonderful manner, is prefaced to his giving spiritual light unto his people; because of the agreement there is between light corporeal and spiritual, in their nature and production; for as there was darkness upon the earth before there was light, so there is a natural darkness in the minds of men, before any spiritual light is infused into them; and as light was the first production out of the dark and unformed chaos, so light is the first thing that is struck into the soul in conversion; moreover, as light was the effect of almighty power, so is the spiritual illumination, or the opening of the eyes of the understandings of men, who are naturally born blind; and as light was a creation of that which was not before, so the work of grace on the soul is not an increase of, or an addition to, or an improvement of the light of nature, but it is a new light, created in the understanding; add to all this, that both corporeal and spiritual light are good, and both called "day"; the influence that God has over the hearts of men, and the effect he produces there are, he hath shined in our hearts. The hearts of men are like this dark terraqueous globe, having no light in them; God is as the sun, the fountain of light, which shines upon them and in them; so as to give them a true sight and sense of sin, and of their lost state and condition; so as to cause them to see the fulness and suitableness of Christ as a Saviour; so as to warm their affections, and draw out their desires after Christ, his ways, truths, ordinances, and people; and so as to give them light into the mysteries of the Gospel; particularly he so shines into the hearts of some, whom be makes ministers of the Gospel, as to give more light and knowledge into Gospel truths, than he does to others; and his end in doing this, is to give: that is, that his ministering servants may give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ; men must be first made light in, and by the Lord, or they will never be fit and proper persons to hold forth the word of light, or to communicate light to others; God first shines into their hearts, and then they give light to others: by "the glory of God" is not meant the essential glory of God, or the perfections of his nature, though these are to be seen in the face, or person of Christ; but rather the glorious counsels of God, and scheme of salvation by Jesus Christ; or in other words, the glorious Gospel of God: and by "the knowledge" of it is designed, not a mere notional speculative knowledge of the Gospel, but an experimental one; a spiritual knowledge of the Gospel, of Christ in it, of God in Christ, and of an interest in God's salvation by Christ: now when the ministers of the word are said to give the light of this to men, or to enlighten them with this knowledge, it cannot be thought that they are the efficient causes, for such are only Jehovah, Father, Son, and Spirit; but only that they are instrumental, and are means in the hands of God, of bringing persons to see the fellowship of this mystery: all which is done, "in the face of Jesus Christ"; this denotes the clearness and perspicuity of their ministry, and of that knowledge which is communicated by it; see Co2 3:12 and also the authority by which they act; it is in the name and person of Christ, in which sense the phrase is used, Co2 2:10.