2 Corinthians 4:1-15
Has each of us like the apostle completely "renounced the hidden things of dishonesty"? (v. 2). Paul’s heart was like a clear mirror; he faithfully reflected around him every ray which he received. And what was the object shining on him, which he made visible in that way to other men? "The glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ" (v. 6). What a treasure this knowledge of Christ in the glory was for Paul! He was merely the vessel in which it was contained – a poor, fragile earthen vessel worth nothing in itself. For if God’s instrument had stood out because of brilliant human qualities, he would have drawn attention to himself at the expense of the treasure which he had to present. Jewellers are well aware that too fine a case tends to eclipse the jewel contained in it. They display their most beautiful jewels on ordinary black velvet. In the same way Paul, the vessel, was troubled, perplexed, persecuted, cast down . . . so that the treasure: the life of the Lord Jesus, might be made manifest in him (v. 10). The trials of the believer serve the purpose of removing from him any personal glory so that the One for whom he is nothing more than the lamp-stand may shine out all the more.