Harry Ironside emphasizes the necessity of bearing the dying of the Lord Jesus in our lives, illustrating that God seeks broken individuals who rely on Him rather than their own abilities. He contrasts the Apostle Paul's humble approach to ministry with the expectations of worldly success, highlighting that true power comes from recognizing our weakness and allowing God's light to shine through us. Ironside draws parallels between our struggles and the biblical story of Gideon, showing that our afflictions can serve to manifest Christ's life in us. He encourages believers to remember Christ's sacrifice daily, surrendering their ambitions and desires to reflect His glory in a world filled with darkness.

Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the divine order presented in 2 Corinthians 4, illustrating how God places the treasure of Christ within our earthen vessels to manifest His power through our weaknesses. He explains that afflictions and trials serve to weaken our outer selves, allowing the life of Christ to shine through us, ultimately bringing life to others. The sermon encourages believers to embrace their new identity in Christ, recognizing that the inner man is being renewed even as the outer man decays. Beach highlights the importance of nurturing this new creation through fellowship with God and His Word, leading to a life empowered by the Spirit. He concludes with a call to recognize and feed the new man within, which is greater than the struggles of the old self.

John Nelson Darby expounds on 2 Corinthians 12, emphasizing the dual nature of Paul's experiences of visions and revelations alongside his sufferings and infirmities. He highlights that while Paul received extraordinary revelations, he remained humble, recognizing that his flesh was a hindrance, and that God's strength is made perfect in weakness. Darby explains the significance of being 'in Christ' and how it allows believers to glory in their weaknesses, as they are vessels for Christ's power. He also discusses the importance of discerning the means by which the gospel is spread, cautioning against relying on worldly methods rather than the power of the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, Darby encourages believers to trust in God's grace and to understand their identity and position in Christ.