2 Corinthians 4:3-4 (Part 25b) Hostility to the Gospel Explained

• The condition of unbelieving men, v. 3

• The cause of the condition, v. 4a: 1) The activity of Satan—the god of this age . . . a) Has a wisdom that stands in total contrast to God’s wisdom; b) This age has a lifestyle that the believer is to reject; c) Has the power to sever relationships; d) Has a penetrating power; e) This is the environment for which it is the will of God for us to live; 2) Unbelief of men—this is expressed as to . . . a) Destiny—“perishing” (lost); b) Attitude—“unbelieving”

• The purpose, v. 4b

How does Satan accomplish isolating the unbeliever from the pure gospel?

• Make sure they never hear it

• Encourage attendance in a “church” where the gospel is not clearly taught

The words “the glory of Christ” (v. 4) modify the word “gospel.” How so?

• They describe the gospel

• They test the gospel

The issue with the gospel

• It is an objective message about Christ

• It is not a subjective experience

The person of the gospel extolled, vv. 5-6

• He is extolled by Paul’s preaching: 1) Paul the proclaimer, v. 5a; 2) Paul the pastor, v. 5b

• He is extolled by God’s declaration: 1) God’s creation, v. 6a; 2) God’s salvation declaration, v. 6b

Parallel God’s creation and salvation declaration—(universal to personal)

• Creation is universal in nature—personally God let there be light in my heart.

• The only light to begin with in Genesis 1 was God’s light. That is really the only light we know spiritually.

• The light in Genesis 1 was generated by His Word. That is how a man is born again.

• Light dispelled darkness. The light of His Word dispels spiritual darkness in our personal experience.

True service for the Lord: Its Suffering, 4:7-5:10.

• Paradox stated, 4:7