Topic: Paul’s Understanding of Affliction

Paul’s confidence in the care and love of God was unwavering. Despite every painful experience, Paul was able to rejoice because his eyes were fixed—not on what he went through—but on Jesus, who walked beside him every step of the way.

2 Corinthians 1:3-7 – Jesus provides a reason for the affliction.

2 Corinthians 1:8-10 – Jesus rescues us.

2 Corinthians 4:6-18 – Jesus shines an eternal light.

2 Corinthians 6:3-10 – Jesus provides righteous weapons to protect and defend.

2 Corinthians 7:2-4 – Jesus provides an unselfish reason to boast.

Ultimately Paul cared more about doing what God had asked him to do than he cared about the earthly consequences. The beatings, the stoning, the imprisonments, the hunger…whatever it was that he had to endure for the cross of Christ was nothing compared to the eternal reality of life with God.

2 Corinthians 4:7-18 – The eternal joy of the hardships of the gospel.

2 Corinthians 5:17-21 – The responsibility of the believer is to be an ambassador of reconciliation.

2 Corinthians 12:7-10 – The strength comes from Christ within.

Application question:

How does 2 Corinthians change your view and purpose of affliction?

See you Sunday!

Dr. Scott Kallem