| Scripture |
Expanded Comments |
| |
|
| 1 Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; |
This ministry – The Church's chief mission is toward herself. She holds up the light of the truth, to attract some--"A peculiar people," "even as many as the Lord our God shall call." (Acts 2:39) R2414:3
The Church is to teach and instruct those who see the light, and to introduce them to the full fellowship of the high calling. R2414:6
Not to rule the world, nor to judge the world now, but to "lay down our lives for the brethren." (1 John 3:16) R2415:3
The Lord's followers in the present time are called upon to suffer persecution for righteousness' sake, to be tested, proved, polished, prepared for a future work of service. R2415:3
We faint not – Are not discouraged. R2415:6
|
| 2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God. |
In craftiness – Substituting traditions for God's Word. R525:3
The word of God – Contrary to this text and many others, Rev. Lyman Abbott denied that the Bible is the Word of God, preaching rather that it is the product of the church, the literature of religion. R1584:3
Deceitfully – Falsifying the Word of God (Diaglott)--wresting, twisting and ignoring Scripture. R525:3
We must cultivate honesty with ourselves, honesty with the Lord, honesty in handling his Word. R2569:6
It is as dangerous for one to deceive himself as to deceive others. We advise all to be especially on guard against self-deception in handling the divine Word. R1979:5
Quoting Biblical passages and words, robbing these words of their correct import, covertly and dangerously undermines the ransom even more than opposition that honestly states infidelity. R463:5, 448:5
By manifestation of the truth – "The ministration of the spirit" is an object of hope, although many plume themselves with the conceit that they have that ministration now in all its fullness. R1323:4*
|
| 3 But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:
|
Our gospel – Very much of what is preached today as gospel is far from being glad tidings. Like rubbish, it conceals, dims and tarnishes God's justice and love by misrepresentation. R525:2
The word "gospel" signifies the good message, the message of the angels at the birth of Jesus, the gospel of joy and blessing, divine love and mercy. HG655:3
Be hid – Be veiled (Diaglott), obscured. R525:3, 1045:6*
The creeds of human tradition have so misrepresented God and his purposes as to make of them bad tidings. HG655:3
Them that are lost – Those who are perishing. (Diaglott) R525:1
It is hidden to the perishing--the great mass of mankind, alienated, slaves of sin, including the very best of humanity. NS595:4
Not yet found. R857:5
All were lost, but believers (having heard and accepted) are reckoned as saved or recovered to life. These who reject are still in their former condition, still lost--unbenefited by the favor as yet. R877:4
The whole world is lost. The true gospel is hid to all but a few, and will be until the prince of this world is bound and man's ears are opened and the knowledge of the Lord shall fill the earth. HG190:4
They are not lost because they cannot see the gospel, but all Adam's race are lost through disobedience. HG656:2
Even though Christ died for them, the blinded ones are unable to realize the ransom, hence are still among the lost or condemned. They will not always be blinded or lost or condemned. R526:2
|
| 4 In whom the god of this age hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.
|
In whom – In the masses through ignorance, and the more intelligent through pride, selfishness, etc. E189
The god – Greek: theos; used of any mighty one, same as elohim in the Hebrew. R5749:2, 803:1*, 1645:1
Ruler. E189; Q827:T
Satan--John 14:30. R525:3
Satan, whose very existence is now being denied by many--see 2 Cor. 2:11; 11:14. F609, F627; R5544:6, SM78:T, 310:2; OV342:2, 393:7
Satan, who fell from his holy estate and became the adversary of God through unholy ambition. R5909:3, 5896:1, 5034:6; SM344:T, 428:3
Satan, the prince of this world--he has had much to do with many of the religious systems of the world. CR200:6; R1684:2
The prince of darkness. R2550:2; CR200:6
The prince of darkness, of evil, of sin, of error; the "father of lies"; "a murderer from the beginning." (John 8:44) SM548:1
Satan did not have divine commission to be prince of this world, but got possession of mankind through ignorance and misrepresentation, and easily holds the position of master. E113
Satan is not recognized to be the ruler, nor has God given him this dominion, but by deceiving mankind he has usurped the control of their minds. R3719:2
The whole world, the groaning creation, has a claim upon our patience. Through the Scriptures, we see that their great difficulty is that they are under the delusions of our Adversary, who deceives them. F307
A deceptive work has been accomplished by the Adversary. Satan alienates the hearts of men and hinders them from a proper approach to their true Sovereign. NS521:6; F617
"The prince of this world," assisted by the fallen angels, deceived men by ignorance and blindness into iniquity, false doctrines and evil practices. Paul blamed not men so much as Satan who deluded them. R4527:2, 3274:2, 1645:1, 1174:6; CR424:2, 200:6
These words imply not only that there are evil principles at work in this world, but that behind them there are evil spirit beings, of whom Satan is the inspirer and through whom he is working. R5209:6; CR424:2
Paul warned that the falling away of the Church would be the result of giving heed to "seducing spirits" and "doctrines of demons"--the fallen angels. (1 Tim. 4:1) ; HG655:6; R3274:2; CR424:2; SM428:3
The dangers of ensnarement exist because Satan is the prince of this age; he has the majority of mankind under his influence, blinded by sin. R5445:3
It is because Satan is the ruler over this present order of things during this dispensation that it is termed an "evil world." Q827:T
Satan presents his own version of the truth, so is designated "the devil which deceiveth the whole world." (Rev. 12:9) R5849:2
We do not charge our forefathers with evil intent in the making of the creeds. Satan substituted the creeds for the Bible. They are unhealthful for the saints and poisonous to others. HG655:3; 657:5; NS750:4; OV401:1; SM692:1
Of this world – Of this present evil condition of things. E189; Q827:T
Not that God gave Satan any authority to rule these kingdoms, but that he is ruling through human weakness. R5853:6
Jesus told his disciples that the "prince of this world" was coming (John 14:20); Satan would triumph oversway until the Lord's second coming. Q826:2
Satan has a great spiritual empire amongst men, which controls through ignorance, superstition and fear. SM546:1, 425:1; R1174:6; NS750:4
"The prince of this world (age)" and the fallen angels have much to do with the iniquity prevailing in the world. R4527:2, 3274:2, 1645:1; CR424:2
The civilized world is called "Christendom"--Christ's kingdom. It is dominated by the "god of this world." God permits this, but he does not attempt authority over it nor its imperfect governments. R3752:5, 1645:1; CR201:1
It is natural that our first thought should be that the almighty God is the king and ruler of earth; but the Scriptures teach that Satan is the "prince," the "god," "of this world." ; NS547:3; R1645:1; Q827:T
Our Lord is not ruling over the nations now, and will not until the appointed time for him to take unto himself his great power and authority and establish his own Kingdom in the earth. Q827:T
Evil is a principle, and as such is eternal. Sin was produced by the evil principle becoming active when Satan himself sinned. He introduced sin and evil into the world through our first parents. Q773:4
Seeing men breaking away from error in the Reformation time, Satan misguided our fathers into the formation of their various creeds. HG546:2; NS798:6
Some of Satan's subtle attacks are through human agencies. He works in the hearts of the children of disobedience, not as a messenger of darkness, knowing that error and sin will repel the children of light. R5184:1
While many comprehend that Satan's present reign is invisible but powerful, they do not understand that Christ's reign over all the earth will also be invisible and powerful. HG365:5
Satan did not gain entire control of Christendom. There is a center or nucleus of truth in each creed, and around that kernel of truth, germinating power may be felt in every denomination. NS798:6
Thank God for the coming Kingdom and its righteous judgments and assistances to all now blinded! The Great Judge will have greater compassion upon the dupes than on those who teach them false doctrine. R3320:5, 2256:2
Hath – Satan and the fallen angels have deceived mankind into false doctrines and evil practices: R4527:2
Atheists. R5849:2
Christian Science, Theosophy, Mesmerism, Clairvoyance, Hypnotism and Swedenborgianism--all related to Spiritism. R2189:1
"Mind cures." R2014:5
Mormons and Spiritualists. Q495:T
Pantheism, fatalism, eternal torment and purgatory. Q547:T; R5849:2
Sectarianism. R2256:2
Unitarians. R5849:2
By deception, error, ignorance, and superstition. E218; F307; R5445:2, 4557:3, 3274:2, 2690:3, 2550:2, 1174:6, 862:2, 858:5; SM428:3, 102:T
By doctrines of devils. F377; CR424:2; NS798:6, 526:3; OV401:1; SM428:3, 128:1
The saints "wrestle not with flesh and blood merely," but rather "with wicked spirits in high positions of influence." (Eph. 6:12) R5053:2; SM102:T
By usurpation. R3719:2
By persuading men not to reason upon religious subjects. R3313:1
By supplying them with false religions. R1684:2
Another class he blinds with pride and liberty of earthly wisdom, science falsely so-called. R525:5; CR424:2
By a thousand enticements to sin, which appeal specially to the depraved appetites of the fallen race now, but which will not be tolerated when the new, heavenly rule is established. R1092:6
By the snare of the Adversary. R862:2; F617
By prejudice and traditions. R699:4
By prosperity. R526:1
By cares of this life. R526:2
By multiplied forms and ceremonies, blinding them to spirit or true meaning. R525:5
By the success, pride, and worldly honor which followed the Reformation. R525:6
By adherence to the traditions of men, sophistries, and fallacies. NS309:4; R3274:2, 2690:3
By putting darkness for light, and light for darkness, so that the creature feeling after God cannot find him. CR40:3; R5849:2*, 5718:6, 5545:1, 2707:2, 2504:3; NS521:6, 240:4; SM692:1, 421:3, 173:3
Largely by good people, used ignorantly on their part as Satan's tools. R5718:6, 1174:6; NS798:6, 240:4
The vast majority of those who promulgate the bad tidings of eternal misery as being the divine message are wholly unaware of how seriously they misrepresent the divine character and government. R2557:1; F617
Under the frenzied zeal of false religion, as Manasseh's false religions sanctioned immoralities; perhaps even his shedding of "innocent blood" being a crime done in the same ignorance. R2387:2
Through papacy in the Dark Ages. R525:6; OV401:1; SM128:1
Some see God's power, but are blinded to his justice, wisdom and love. R525:5; F617
In merely appealing to "the best that is within man," and in merely exhorting him "to lead a nobler life," there is afforded a general platform for all shades of opinion and every philosophic speculation. R5849:2
Some worship the work of their hands. In them the moral qualities--justice, love, etc.--are almost extinguished. These retain scarcely any of the image of God, in which man was created. R525:5
Blinded – The skillful and intentional injury of the mental eye by Satan. R2582:5
More or less completely. R2573:6
In order that they might not see clearly. (Diaglott) R1046:1*
Originally, man had a clear eye, mental as well as physical. By reason of sin, his discernment of right and wrong has been blurred, and some are totally blind to the deeper and spiritual things. R5797:5
Because some wickedness is due to Satan's blinding influences, it was proper for David to pray that his enemies should go to sheol until the resurrection when they will have an opportunity to live righteously. E364
Satan is exercising a blinding, deceiving influence upon all except true believers. R4908:5, 5357:4, 4445:2, 3274:2, 2975:3, 1962:2; CR346:6
The wicked are those who willfully prefer sin to righteousness, while many violators of God's law now are deceived by the great enemy Satan and entrapped by depraved appetites. R1383:5
Satan obscures and obliterates the justice, mercy and love in men, and seeks to misrepresent God's character and thus hinder man's recognition of these qualities in Jehovah. R525:4, 5418:4; F617; NS798:6; SM692:1
They do not see things in their true light. R877:4
Satan presents himself as an angel of light. R5184:1; NS521:6; SM173:3
Besides man's natural depravity, Satan has conspired to blind man to principles of truth, warping and twisting him so that he is out of harmony with God, not even appreciating the message to return to him. R3915:1, 1175:1
Darkness covers the earth--gross darkness the people. (Isa. 60:2) T90; OV57:3
"The light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehendeth it not." (John 1:5) As in our Lord's day, Sata R4107:5, 3475:3
The religious leaders of Jesus' day did not receive his message; and during his ministry only about five hundred of the people believed. The god of this world blinded their eyes. CR499:1
The world still lieth in wickedness. (1 John 5:19) T90
The kingdoms of this world are under Satan, the prince of this world; but they do not realize this, for they are deceived. R5853:6, 3274:2; CR200:6
There are degrees of blindness: some see creation and not a Creator; some see the Creator but not his interest in us; some see creation and the Creator but they do not see accurately his character or plan. R3848:2
The whole world is referred to in the Bible as being blind and deaf to the things that are most interesting, most profitable. Only one here and there, like Bartimaeus, takes the proper steps to secure relief. R5485:2
Like the partly cured blind man of old, some see a brightness (as it shines around them on every hand) and can discern something, but see nothing clearly. R4214:2, 2377:4
As the Ephesians had been duped and were unable to discern God's message from Satan's teachings, so it is with heathens and Christians today--probably due to ignorance more than evil preferences. R3158:2
"Few there be who find" or see or know of the one way of return to the Lord, because Satan hath blinded their minds. R1771:2
The message of Jesus and the apostles comes as an eye-salve to some, but the majority, blinded by the Adversary and false doctrines, are ignorant respecting God and his Son and the plan of salvation. NS331:5
Never before did we realize so fully the need of the whole world for the promised eye-salve of Rev. 3:18, and none seem to need it R1400:6
The present heavens, the nominal religious systems, bow to Antichrist, "who now worketh in (through) the children of disobedience," (Eph. 2:2) and captivates and blinds R2832:3; CR200:6
Satan has not only blinded the heathen, but he is quite considerably blinding two thirds of Christendom represented in the Roman and Greek Catholic communions. R2548:4
The trinity is one of the dark mysteries by which Satan, through the papacy, has beclouded the Word and character and plan of God. E61
While Satan and his fallen angels have been persuading men that they were stoking fires for humanity's torture, they have been assisting in misrepresenting the Bible's parables and symbolic statements. HG655:6
"Destroy," "perish," "die," "second death," and "everlasting destruction" represent annihilation; but they are distorted into nightmares of torture. HG443:2; NS583:3, 530:5; SM521:T
During the Dark Ages, Satan came forth with the errors of purgatory and torment, which men emulated by burning one another at the stake. HG159:2
Molech might require sacrifices of burning, but Jehovah never. NS309:4
Satan has used the human tendency of fear as a lash wherewith to drive man away from God, and from the Bible, his revelation. NS750:4; F617; SM692:1
Under the terrors of the words "doom's day," the god of this world has obscured the glorious blessings which belong to the day of the establishment of the Kingdom of the Lord. NS692:2
God's book is not the foundation of errors about the future or horrible nightmares which have afflicted us and hindered many from a proper love and reverence for our Creator. NS530:5; F617
Others can hear a little, and say that there is one chance in a million of escaping eternal torment. R5275:6; F617
Our minds have been poisoned by the Adversary's substituting devilish doctrines for the Scriptural truth that God created us with a glorious purpose in view and his divine sentiment toward us has not changed. NS526:3; F617
The majority of Christendom, including many of the Lord's noblest children, have so long put darkness for light and light for darkness that the very terms justice and love are confused in their minds. NS508:5; SM692:1
The Adversary caused the wayside hearers to forget what they did not understand. Their minds were so down-trodden with ignorance and superstition that it could find no lodgment in their hearts and minds. NS607:2
Often because of our careless handling of the Word, we were confused on the lines with which the Adversary blinded the heathen world. NS583:3, 309:4
The fact that Satan, the prince of death and sickness (Heb. 2:14 and Luke 13:16), has adoptgreat foe is pu R2014:5
We believe that some miraculous healers are God's agents, thus used in order to make a beginning of restitution work. Others' powers are from the prince of darkness. R2030:1
Amongst the enlightened and civilized, thought and investigation are being aroused; and there Satan is kept busy. Necromancy, incantations and spiritism are too senseless to deceive. So "new light" is assumed. R1643:2
Some Satan has blinded with the brilliancy of their own earthly learning and with their love of honor of men. R1418:3
Satan has multitudinous devices for blinding men--fair earthly prospects, ambitions to be some one great, selfish schemes for gaining advantage over others. SM344:T; R4092:5
The great Adversary is diligently seeking to stir up strife in the race question which will evidently have its part in this mighty conflict immediately preceding Messiah's reign of righteousness. HG515:5
Whoever sees our wonderful God in all his glorious attributes is inspired to walk in the right way. But, for the moment, the great mass of mankind are blinded, poorly able to withstand the Adversary. CR496:2; F617
A measure of blindness continues with us for some time after we have accepted Christ and become his followers, but we should desire increasing light; God intended the light for us only. HG745:6
Where Satan's work has been fully accomplished, and men are blinded by ignorance and superstition, the gospel message can do nothing. We must wait for Kingdom power. HG721:3
With pitying love, think and speak kindly of those who cause division and stumblings contrary to the doctrine which you have learned. Avoid them. Do not render evil for evil, nor slander for slander. R4531:5, 3274:2
All mankind are serving either Christ and the soldiers of his cross or Satan and the powers of darkness, and many on both sides serve ignorantly. R1948:1
Many, who through association with the Adversary have become goat-like in many respects, still have something of the sheep nature, which, under proper enlightenment, would assert itself. R2707:2
Our finances are as nothing compared to the millions devoted annually to the propaganda of error, ministers' salaries, church edifices, and now Higher Criticism and Evolution, all by the Lord's permission. R3909:5
The Gospel age just closing, in which the dim light of faith has been a light to the path of only a few, is part of the world's night of weeping, and is about to give place to the Millennial morning of joy. R1877:5
Those blinded for years with misconceptions of the divine character--when now the eyes of their understanding are opened, feel as did Saul, that life is only too short to show forth God's praises. R2824:4
"Blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear," but there are many who have not this sight and hearing yet. HG145:5; R5354:4
Although God is reconciled through Christ, only a few have yet the hearing ear. The great mass of mankind are deaf to the voice divine speaking peace through Jesus Christ. NS384:6; R5832:2
The reconciled are privileged to tell of Jesus' redemption work to others--it is no longer confined to one nation or people--but only a few have the hearing ear. NS366:5
Up to this time, only elected ones have been favored, while the remainder of the race were passed by and are still in measurable darkness. NS351:6
One part of the gospel message to be proclaimed is the "recovering of sight to the blind." (Luke 4:18) R2580:3,5
God wills that all men shall be saved from the Adamic sentence and recovered from the ignorance and blindness with which Satan since the fall has darkened their minds. E470; R2550:2, 2504:3; OV381:5
Satan now realizes that it is impossible to shut out the light of the incoming day. SM323:1
We sorrow not as others in respect to friends who are blind to spiritual things. If we are unable to help them now, the time is coming when we shall be privileged to enlighten and uplift them. NS265:6; R2256:2
As the blind man received his sight on the Sabbath day (John 9), we remember that we are in the early dawn of the antitypical Sabbath when Satan-blinded eyes of men's understandings shall be opened. R1400:6
During the Millennial age, Christ's power will be exercised to prevent deceptions. R1092:6
"The eyes of the blind shall be opened." (Isa. 35:5) E470; R5896:2, 5832:2, 5667:4, 5354:4, 5084:1, 4107:5, 3195:2, 2414:6, 2375:4, 1958:4, 1400:6; CR40:3; HG145:5; NS769:3, 555:3, 85:3; OV393:7, 381:5, 253:2; SM680:T
"In that day shall the deaf hear the words of the book, and the eyes of the blind shall see out of obscurity, and out of darkness." (Isa. 29:18) Those blinded by Satan no R1958:4, 1400:6
Referring to the future opening of blinded eyes of understanding, Jesus said, "Greater works than these shall ye do." (John 14:12) R526:5
One means for bringing the world back into harmony with God, will be the removal of Satan's influence (deception, error, ignorance, superstition), now upon the world, blinding mankind. E218; R2690:3, 2550:2, 2504:3, 2375:4; OV381:5
Satan shall be bound for that thousand years, that he may deceive the nations no more. Then his deceptions will all be exposed by the glorious light of that day. NS555:3; CR200:5; OV381:5, 253:2
Satan is not yet bound. He has little difficulty in finding human servants. This should make us extremely skeptical respecting whatever we hear that is uncomplimentary to anybody. R5655:4
A great many blinded minds do not know the object of Christ's coming, do not have the Scriptural teaching as to why he comes. But their eyes shall be opened. R5269:4
For some who are now evildoers and lovers of sin, our hope is that they are such because of blinding of the devil, which leads them to make a choice they would not make if they had a full, clear knowledge. R3084:5
Soon their eyes will be opened; then each will be responsible. R5084:1; OV381:5
Nero, and whoever is blinded and weakened by depravity, in heathen or Christian lands, is entitled to a chance in the future because "Jesus Christ gave himself a ransom for all." (1 Tim. 2:5, 6) HG245:1
The great work of that thousand-year Sabbath will be the healing of the morally lame and the giving of sight and hearing to the minds now blinded and deaf under the evil influences of the great Adversary. R5034:6, 2256:2
Satan has blinded their eyes by error and superstition and gross darkness which covers the earth. HG179:5; F617
It is not possible for them to see. God has permitted Satan's great power. But God will alter matters. HG112:3; R5354:4
The minds – The minds or "hearts" of men is the battle ground on which the holy Spirit contends with the evil spirit of Satan. E189
Six thousand years ago, Satan started this work of blinding human understanding to the goodness of God. R5485:2, 2557:1; F617; CR459:1
And thus hindered the light of divine truth from shining unto them. R2414:5, 5923:3, 5053:4, 2247:3; F617, CR463:4; OV255:3, 311:3; SM78:T
Satan is in violent opposition to every feature of God's great plan. SM344:T
The world in general knows not God. R5391:1, 2137:6
Man's ideas of right and wrong are badly warped and twisted, through various false doctrines and theories. R1175:1, 3915:4
They do not know the object of Christ's coming. R5269:4
The Adversary would alienate our hearts and minds from God and from his Book. He would have us think of God as the most terrible monster of the universe, bent upon the eternal misery of nearly all. NS701:2; F617
Satan has been successful in preventing mankind to enjoy a real knowledge of God, but it is impossible for him to hinder all appreciation of the Creator because man has an instinct for reverence. R3312:6
Of them – The masses see not, hear not, neither do they understand the grace of God. R4557:3
Those in a lost condition, without God and without hope in the world; whoever is not in Christ, servants of sin, still under condemnation, still strangers from God, still lost in the wilderness of sin. R2414:5
The wise, the prudent, the self-satisfied; the people of Chorazin, Bethsaida and Capernaum. R2267:5
Jesus did not mention the blindness of the heathen, but that of the favored people of Israel, especially the Pharisaic doctors of the Law. (Matt. 15:6, 14) R525:5
Good men, deceived, bound up with error, influenced by sectarianism. R2256:2; Q752:4
The more honorable they are, and the more closely identified with the Lord and his people these children of disobedience may be, the greater service they may render to the Adversary. R5184:1
The great masses of Christendom, even as all the heathen, may have been in churches occasionally; nevertheless, the eyes of their understanding were darkened. OV311:3
There are very many who lack spiritual sight, many who cannot exercise faith in what they cannot see; and according to the Scriptures they are not responsible for their failure. SM680:T; R5418:4; Q752:4
There are some who desire to get away from the Lord as far as possible and to keep away. These have no real knowledge of him. R5717:4
Nearly one-fourth of the world's population are named by his name--Christians--yet the vast majority of these are in nearly as great darkness as the three-fourths who are heathen. R3475:3
As soon as they have any knowledge of God, the Adversary seems to conjure up slavish fear which crowds out love, and produces dread. R4841:2
Misunderstanding our gracious Creator, they are thus driven away from him. SM428:3, 128:1; F617; R3848:1; NS701:2
Many are deceived who would love to be on the right side, but Satan utilizes them on his own side of the question. NS240:4; R1174:6
They are ignorantly and blindly waiting, hoping for the "Golden Age" of which the world's poets have long sung. R2049:2
The "Great Light" arose in Palestine, and was not sent into Africa nor India nor China, but northward and westward to Europe and America. These lands were "honored"; these people "have seen a great light." (Isa. 9:2) R2377:4
Neither the masses in down town New York nor their polished, wealthy, better educated neighbors who have moved up-town as "churches," are on trial now; they will have their trial with the "heathen" millions. R2428:6; OV311:3
These who reject and do not receive the offer of life. R877:4
These will not be everlastingly tormented. R1958:4
Having fallen into the ditch, they shall be proved unworthy of the grand prize, but shall ultimately be recovered and freed from the blindings of false teachings. R862:2
God knows, not we, how many of these despisers who wonder (Acts 13:41), while perishing, have sihaving any further opportunity during the Millennium. R4364:6
The world in general knows not God, and hence could not sin against the holy Spirit in that full sense or degree which would be punished with second death. R5391:1, 1962:2
These shall not be utterly and forever cast down. R1958:4, 862:2
Some may really be saints and merely blinded for the time by the errors which the Adversary has caused to be promulgated. R4692:5
Which believe not – The children of disobedience. D611; R5362:5; CR200:6
Whose eyes of understanding have not been anointed with the Lord's eye-salve. D611
So they cannot believe. R2122:5
Millions have been driven into the Church by doctrines of demons, but driven away from God and from the Bible. SM128:1; NS750:4, 701:2
These are the "unjust" of Acts 24:15, who will have a part in t be accomplished in all who will not individually reject its gracious provisions. R3195:2
The wise and prudent according to the course of this world, blinded with the brilliancy of their own earthly learning and with their love of honor of men. HG311:1
Some are so stupid through the blinding of the Adversary that they cannot believe it. To such, it is not good tidings at all, but foolishness. R5275:6, 858:5
They believe not simply and implicitly in God's Word, but manufacture and use theories of their own and the traditions of other men to accomplish their own plans and to bring quick and popular results. R1645:1
Compassionate toward the ignorant who are blinded by Satan, some oppose the Scriptural teaching of restitution and education and trial, substituting the teaching of unbelievers going to heaven. R2247:3
As these were the vast majority in fleshly Israel, so they have been also among the Gentiles. D567; R5832:2
Well intentioned men try to explain how noble non-Christians will be saved, by lowering the standards, eliminating faith in Jesus as a necessary prerequisite. R2220:4; SM311:T
The real grounds for sympathy and hope for the masses is the statement that Satan has blinded their minds, misinterpreted the facts. R4907:5
During the present Gospel age, the spirit dispensation, the world of mankind is not liable to the second death because Satan is exercising a blinding, deceiving influence upon all except true believers. R4908:5, 1962:2
These words apply not only to an entire lack of faith, but also to the various imperfect degrees of development of faith in ourselves and in others. R4692:4
The ear of faith is the special favor of God to those who are of a meek, honest heart, desiring truth and righteousness. R4557:2
Lest – To hinder. R5362:5
The battle of darkness against the light. R2137:6, 2504:3; CR200:6
The woman of Samaria was a type of thousands of others who would act very differently if they only knew that Jesus is Christ. If the Jews had known, they would not have crucified him. (1 Cor. 2:8) R1712:1
The Adversary has wrapped the creeds which hold some truth with layer after layer of mistranslation and misinterpretation. NS798:6
The light – The truth. A20
Like Paul, the persecuted tent-maker, we thank God for the opening of our eyes and ears and mouths to this blessed message--the light of the goodness of God shining in the face of Jesus Christ our Lord. R1959:5
Well can we see how Satan put light for darkness and darkness for light during the Dark Ages. R5053:4; OV401:1
The mission of the great Light into the world was to enlighten man and to restore as many as may be willing to accept sonship. The vast majority from every kindred have been hindered from seeing that Light. R2409:3
Loving the darkness of error rather than the light of truth and reason which God's Word supplies, when brought in contact with truth they fear it and cling to the darkness. R1645:1
The message is clear and favorable, but they are blind. R877:4
The Sun of Righteousness has not yet arisen with healing in his beams. The world is still in darkness. The enlightenment of Jesus' followers' lamps is inadequate to dispel the night and bring in the glorious day. R3686:3
The mission of Christ and the Church in glory is to scatter the darkness of earth, binding the prince of darkness, and setting at liberty from the bonds of ignorance the whole world of mankind. NS292:6; R2504:3, 2256:2; OV381:5; SM428:3
The glorious gospel – Of the goodness of God. R2851:3; NS583:3; OV393:7; Q547:T; SM521:T
The glorious light of divine goodness. E260; R2712:2
Those favored with the light of the knowledge of God, shining in the face of Jesus Christ our Lord, can rejoice and give thanks under all circumstances and conditions. R2076:3
The good message, the gospel blessing, of divine love and mercy toward our race is hidden because the creeds of human tradition have so misrepresented God and his purposes as to make of them bad tidings. HG655:3; F617
Only believers have received the atonement in the sense of accepting the opportunity which the grace of God has thus provided; the rest of mankind are blinded. E19
The gospel in this age is foolishness to many whom the god of this world hath blinded by error, etc. R858:5
The Adversary did not wish us to see with "the eyes of our hearts" the glorious character of our Creator, his love for mankind, and his glorious provision for us. HG546:4; F617; NS798:6, 701:2
God has but one way of salvation: through faith in the precious blood of Christ, and through an endeavor to come into harmony with his righteous law through the merit of the Savior. SM311:T
The apostolic writings were to the saints. The ministry of reconciliation is entrusted to us. We must eagerly proclaim the "the effulgence of the glad tidings of the glory." (Diaglott) R1046:1*
History is divided into (1) a time when God's grace was not revealed, (2) a time when some would see it and others would be blinded; and (3) a coming time in which salvation will be manifest. NS405:3
"I will come again, and receive you unto myself." (John 14:3)--and his Church shall sit nd all the evil-doers shall be cut off. R5362:5
God plans that the earthly Kingdom work shall be done gradually and that all shall come to a clear knowledge of the Truth so that they may make the best possible use of their new trial for life. OV381:5
"God so loved the world"--not just the holy angels and the saints. He would not plan to torture his enemies or the ignorant, the superstitious, the great masses of mankind. NS645:4
The Lord promises to turn to the people a "pure message"--instead of the contradiction of creeds of heathenism and Churchianity. OV253:2
Of Christ – Of the Anointed One. R1046:1*
In the face of Jesus Christ. E260; R2550:2
The world, during the Millennial age, shall find how thoroughly they have been blinded by Satan against the true light of God's character, shining through Christ. See also 2 Tim. 2:26. F627
The image of God – The likeness of God. (Diaglott) R1046:1*
"The express image of the Father's person." (Heb. 1:3) The Bride of Christ was pr 2 Pet. 1:4) R1210:6*
We are not to be surprised at the wide difference of understanding of God and of his mightiness and of his character as viewed by the saints and by the world. R2712:2
Should shine unto them – Shine into their hearts. R5718:6, 4629:1; CR392:6; 459:2
Should shine into their hearts, and should bring to them the spirit of a sound mind. E260
Into their hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the divine character and plan. R2712:2
Shining in the face of Jesus our Lord. R2712:2, 2550:2
Should enlighten them, and drive out the darkness of ignorance and misconception and let them see the real character and gracious plan of the heavenly Father. F617; CR392:6; SM428:3
Those thus favored can rejoice and give thanks under all circumstances and conditions. R2076:3
"God is not far from every one of us." Every one who will seek or feel after him, he will be pleased to bless. The object of this Gospel age is to gather those who "hunger and thirst after righteousness." (Matt. 5:6) R4629:1
All who obey the light are the "children of light"; after the image of the Lord has been impressed upon their hearts, they become light-bearers to others, reflecting the light from the divine source. R2137:6
It does not shine into the hearts of many. R2851:3
Thick darkness of error hinders many hearts from receiving the full benefit of God's light and blessing and joy. They find it impossible to love the Lord; because from all they know of him, he is not worthy. R2851:3
The only ones who are not blinded are those who are the servants of God, and the degree of the clearness of vision depends upon the singleness of their eye, heart, purpose, loyalty. R4445:2
Through all the darkness of the Dark Ages there were some who, by shutting their eyes to the error and opening their eyes by faith to the real character of God, were enabled to love God supremely. R2851:5
We long to see the knowledge of the goodness of God shine into the hearts of the Salvation Army and others who in ignorance commit the grievous wrong of preaching damnation while calling it gospel. R2596:1
If men could only get a glimpse of God's goodness in Christ, the entire world would be converted. God purposes to reveal his glory to the world in the Millennial Kingdom. OV393:7
When Paradise Lost shall be Paradise Regained, when the Lord will turn to the people a "pure message," (Zeph. 3:9) the most glorious change will be the change in humanity. NS769:3; OV253:2
"Every eye shall see him and they also which pierced him." (Rev. 1:7) OV57:3
The heathen and great masses of Christendom shall be brought by Messiah's Kingdom to a clear knowledge of the truth and then will hear of the real character of God and his requirements of them. OV311:3
We rejoice that the time is near when Immanuel with the true Church shall bind Satan and set at liberty his blinded captives. R2256:2; CR200:5
|
| 5 For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake. |
Not ourselves – Let us remember our highest place is lying low; the greatest mastery is self-mastery. R3614:4
Peter, too, arrested when he had healed the lame man in the Temple, wisely and properly credited the miracle to Jesus. This is a lesson for all who would represent the Lord as his ambassadors! R5839:3
Your servants – The Church's servants, not the world's servants. R2416:1
|
| 6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. |
For God – The Spirit of God, the Spirit of truth. E293; R375:2
The light to shine – Which is the only true light. (John 1:9) D238
The truth is breaking through the clouds of tradition and error. R795:2
Causing the path of the just to shine "more and more unto the perfect day." (Prov. 4:18) F61
Out of darkness – With the clouds removed (by recognizing "The Rich Man and Lazarus" to be a parable), our eyes may behold the King in his beauty, and our hearts be drawn to him as to a Father, a God of love, a Savior. NS818:3
Hath shined in our hearts – It was necessary that some be honored with the gospel message in advance of its general revealing. R3282:4
This glorious shining in our hearts has impelled us to let our light shine out upon others. R1661:5*
Giving beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning. (Isa. 61:3) R1103:2
Our ideas of the glory and ministration of the Prophet like unto Moses are contracted, inadequate; but we have the witness of Patmos's description of the Glorious One, and our hearts are not blinded. R1323:4*
God's grace shined into our hearts, in contrast to those who "have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge," (Rom. 10:12) and those Paul reproves w NS506:3
The great mass of mankind see not and hear not. R5354:4
In the Millennial Kingdom the Prince of Light (Christ, Head and Body) will open the blinded eyes that all may see. R1771:5
After preaching on this text three times, a member of the Brethren's Church learned the truth of the Bible rather than "orthodoxy" and wrote accurate facts which were put into a helpful tract. R802:2*
To give the light – The blessed radiance has illuminated many hearts, and as one after another receives it and in turn becomes a luminary to others, the glory of God is seen more and more in his Church. R1661:5*
How we long for the ability to let the glorious sunlight of divine love shine into the hearts of the world, for the opportunity to show them that the Word of God is a message of love and benevolence! NS522:6
Pastor Russell's New Year wish for those feeling after God is that they might find the Lord, and obtain through his grace the peace of God, to rule in their hearts and to shed abroad in them this light. R2751:3
The Millennial church will walk by sight, not by the light of the lamp, the Bible, so precious and necessary to us now--a lamp to our feet and a light to our footsteps, assisting us in the "narrow way." NS660:1
Of the knowledge – Greek: gnosis; the definition as "the spirit of judicial investigation and inquiry" is not adequate. R2037:2
The knowledge of God resulting from our experience in the school of Christ and the begetting of the holy Spirit. R2037:2
Delivered from the bondage of ignorance and superstition. R5602:2; NS660:1
|
| |
|
| 7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. |
But we have – The Church only; mankind has no such treasure. E306
This treasure – The holy Spirit, the renewed mind in harmony with God. E245; R3656:5
Our own spirit-begetting--the start of the new nature. Q714:6
The new spirit. R2463:6
The spirit of the truth and the new wills begotten of it. R1698:2
The new mind, the new nature. E195; F71; R5440:4, 5428:1, 1984:1; CR321:5; Q655:4
The newly begotten mind, or will, is all there is at present to represent the new nature, and all there will be until in the first resurrection that new will shall be provided a suitable body. F71; R5123:4
The newly begotten will or heavenly mind, "the mind of Christ." R1856:2
The new creature, the new will. Q508:2; CR454:1
The new heart--the new nature. R2445:4, 5185:2, 5123:4, 2304:2
We must be diligent in the exercise and cultivation of the powers of the new nature, that it may thereby develop strength sufficient to ever keep the old nature under full control. R1670:2
The new character. CR470:5
In earthen vessels – Fragile and leaky. A226
Imperfect, fallen, earthly body. CR321:5; R5958:3, 5440:4, 5325:6; CR470:5; SM392:1
Which are subject to like passions and storms that assail the world in general. R5248:3; Q654:4
More or less cracked by the fall, so that we are unable to contain or to retain a full measure of the spirit of the truth. R1698:2
Under unfavorable conditions. R5428:1; Q655:4
We are surrounded by adverse conditions. The world, the flesh and the devil are assailing our hearts. We have these adverse tendencies, or conditions, to deal with. R4904:2
These earthen vessels are surrounded by selfish tendencies and examples; they must be kept well filled with the Spirit of the Lord, that the evil spirit of selfishness does not gain access. R2463:6
It is not that Christians are of two natures. But the new mind proposes to regulate the mortal body, which is reckoned dead, consecrated, sacrificed to death. R2445:4
Before his crucifixion, Jesus had the seed of the divine nature in an earthen body. R340:6*
In "earthen vessels," "new creatures" possess the promise of "divine nature," which they will have fully in resurrection; having borne the "image of the earthly," they will bear the "image of the heavenly." (1 Cor. 15:49) R1149:2*
The Bride class may not always be known, nor their true character and unselfishness be discerned, because they have the treasure in "earthen vessels," which do not always present their true benevolence of heart. SM190:1
We must have a condition of heart that will be in opposition to sin, that would die rather than yield to sin. To will is present with us, but the performance is another matter. NS227:6
Never satisfactory, to God or to us (except reckonedly through Christ), until the treasure, polished by the Lord, is set as a jewel in a heavenly, spiritual casket or body, by an actual quickening. R1856:2
It behooves us to take heed lest we lose this new treasure, lest the old selfish nature of the earthen vessel again rise up and re-assert itself. R1670:2
We are to do all in our power for the repair of the blemishes, that we may receive and retain larger measures of the spirit of holiness. R2373:4
Because the imperfections of our human bodies mar all our efforts to please and serve God, even the most devout find that they need to go repeatedly to the throne of divine grace for mercy (forgiveness). R1984:1
Moses fell within sight of the promised land; the man fell, but the movement went on; Canaan was reached. Man may stand or fall; the cause of the Lord will not fail. R41:2*
The fact that we hold this treasure of a transformed mind in these defective, deformed vessels proves the excellency of the power of God, and not of us. R3656:5, 1921:4
Illustrated in the Tabernacle by the sockets of copper in which were set the gold covered door posts of the Holy. T114
May be of God – Let our present glory be in that we understand and know the Lord, and in that he condescends to make use of these poor earthen vessels in his service. R1921:4
Our infirmities will cause God's power to shine forth the more brightly. R1046:2*
Not of us – With all our willingness, we have difficulty in performing because of the adverse conditions of our flesh and the world. So the Lord tests us respecting our faith and our obedience to him and his principles. NS228:1
It is not demanded of the Church that they must get the victory to overcome the world to so full an extent that they will never make a mistake. The Lord will judge them according to the spirit, mind, will. NS17:5
|
| 8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; |
Yet not distressed – Trusting in the Lord's precious promises that the troubles should all work out for good. R5670:6
God's grace was always sufficient for Paul. R2426:1*
Not in despair – Though things may look very dark, the Lord's people will not despair for the Lord has said he will never leave us. (Heb. 13:5) R5671:2
Anxiety or uncertainty of the Lord's people should never go to the length of despair. R5671:2
|
| 9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; |
Persecuted – Because of your love for God and his plan, and your desire to tell the good tidings, even nominal Christians will think you peculiar; you will be despised and counted a fool for Christ's sake. A347
Some are the objects of persecution and others share in those persecutions by suffering with those so persecuted. R5670:3
We are not to condemn those who run away from persecution. "If they persecute you in one city, flee to another." (Matt. 10:23) R5671:3
When persecutions come to us we are to inquire if there is something in our disposition which causes them. R5671:3
But not forsaken – Though persecuted for righteousness sake, the Lord's people are not forsaken. R5671:3
Cast down – A heaviness of spirit, feeling of loneliness--may be accentuated by physical health. R5671:4
But not destroyed – The afflictions of the gospel can not be endured without the consolations of the gospel. R27:3*
If the Lord permits trouble, we are to exercise fortitude, to patiently endure, not allow it to destroy our faith, our loyalty. R5671:4
|
| 10 Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. |
The dying of the Lord – The members of his Body fill up the measure of the sufferings of Christ which are behind. (Col. 1:24) T50; R5053:6, 212:1*
Always representing Christ and his sacrifice as dying members of his Body. R2416:1
The Lord's people are dying daily as he died, "laying down their lives." R5671:6
The testator (Heb. 9:16), through whom Israel will get the blessing of the New Covenant, is the Christ, Head and Body. The laying down of the restitution right received by us is our sacrifice, the dying of the testator's body. R4498:2
More than simply a crucifixion of the flesh. R128:1
God expects the life, or spirit, of Christ to be manifest in your mortal body. R5901:5*
Be made manifest – Rendered apparent. E77
In our body – The human body--the new creature owns this body. R5671:6
We must develop more and more the Spirit of the Lord in order to be useful now. First, by example. God expects this of you. The brethren need such an example and stimulus as you can give. R5901:5*
|
| 11 For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. |
For we which live – As new creatures in Christ Jesus. R2416:1
Unto death – Our consecration was a consecration to death. R2416:1
The life also of Jesus – His life vitalizes and raises to a high and glorious condition those who hear and believe (the Little Flock), those who feed on him. R327:6*
Be made manifest – Rendered apparent. E77
When the world sees you it sees a member of The Christ, not in glory, but in the flesh. R455:5
In us, as in our leader and Head, God is manifest in our mortal flesh. R338:2, 455:5
In our mortal flesh – By our sufferings as a part of the whole Christ. T84
Man is mortal, death is possible to him. R1642:5
We, now, though sons of the Most High, die and appear to men nothing more than others. R338:3
|
| 12 So then death worketh in us, but life in you. |
Death worketh in us – Paul and his companions faced persecutions, difficulties, trials by the way, that they might bring spiritual blessing to the Church. The Church was to lay down their lives for one another. R5022:3,5; Q212:1, 2
|
| 13 We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak; |
We having the same spirit – Tischendorf: The Alexandrine Codex, which appears to have been written about the middle of the fifth century, does not have 2 Cor. 4:13 to 12:6. R1147:2
We also believe – The whole matter is a question of faith and none of it is a matter of knowledge. CR308:1
|
| 14 Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also with Jesus, and shall present us with you. |
He – "God the Father." (Gal. 1:1) R2795:2
We are particularly informed that it was the Father that raised up Jesus from the dead and that the Father will "raise us up also" by his power exercised through Jesus our Head. R4528:3
Which raised up – The Scriptures nowhere intimate that Jesus did or could raise himself from the dead. R2795:2
Shall raise up us also – From the dead--if faithful to our call and covenant. R3282:1
What has been done for Jesus is God's promise unto us. R74:3*
Though death swallows up every member of the Church, all shall come forth to victory. R813:4*
Jehovah is our Father--lifegiver--though he has used the Spirit and the Word as his agents in our begetting, and will use Jesus as his agent in our birth or resurrection. R297:2
By Jesus – Jesus will be the active agent. R5507:5
The Father's power exercised through Jesus. R4528:3
If he had not come to be the life-giver, mankind would have been like the brute beasts in death. CR321:3
Shall present us – Unblameable and unreprovable in love. R1007:5
Then we shall in the fullest sense enter into the fullness of sonship. R916:4
|
| 15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God. |
All things – Whatever cannot be overruled for their good must be hindered. R4133:6
The spirit-begotten will need to grow in grace and knowledge and faith, and he will find in the divine provision everything needful to these ends. R4133:6
Not all the bad things, but all the arrangements of the divine plan. R1777:6
Paul's general use of the expression shows that it is not used in the absolute sense. R1269:5
For your sakes – Everything in the realm of nature and of grace must for the time so operate as to be most favorable to this class. (Rom. 8:28) R4133:6
Thanksgiving of many – Of the world to be blessed by our exaltation. R1777:6
|
| |
|
| 16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. |
We faint not – In our battlings. R3275:2
The Christian's life is one of continual trials, of such a nature that the superficial Christian, who does not fully comprehend their use, cannot endure them. R27:3*
Our outward man perish – Our natural man. R212:1*
New creatures have an old man, but God knows us not after the flesh. R2231:6; F675
Suffered, perished, been mortified. NS592:2
An advanced Christian recalls life's storms and its tears, and sorrows not as others who have no hope. His troubles have been minimized by the spirit of a sound mind. R2737:3
Individually and collectively, physically. Great as the annoyance and distress is to have a sore heel, it is infinitely better than to have a sore head. R192:4*
The inward man – New or hidden man of the heart. F675; R2231:6
The spiritual. R212:1*
Mind. (Eph. 4:23) R192:4*
The new nature, renewed, strengthened, upbuilt in the image of God. NS592:2
The Scriptures speak literally when they declare the Church to be a "new creation." To these "new creatures" there is a spirit begetting, which will culminate in the first resurrection, in their spirit birth. NS591:2
God has been so overruling that their outward man may suffer but their inward man has been upbuilt in the image of God. Their trials have made them more nearly exact copies of God's dear Son. SM631:1
It is a misunderstanding to apply this thought of an outward and inward man to non-Christians. SM627:3
The confusion of thinking all have an inward man is due to the different classes of nominal Christianity: applying scriptures to all which only apply to those who have made a full consecration. SM627:4
Is renewed – By communion with Jesus in spirit. R5052:6
We become stronger in the Lord and in the power of his might. R3275:2
Paul was energized by the power divine and by the message of God's Word, which spoke to him peace and relationship to God through Christ. R5951:3
We have the same favors of God, the same promises of God, the same inspiring hopes which Jesus and the apostles had. R5951:3
The new creature can triumph, become strong in the new, the resurrected life, only in proportion as the old body is kept dead--mortified. (Col. 3:5) NS637:6
The Church's resurrection is merely of the mind, of the will, of the heart, not physical; renewed day by day, the new creature progresses. NS337:4
Paul's inward man had the assurance of the Lord that the glories of the future would be proportionate to the trials faithfully endured. R5951:2
From the time of his baptism when the holy Spirit came upon him, our Lord was dying daily as the man Christ Jesus, but was being renewed in the inner man, the new creature, the spirit being. R2422:2
|
| 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; |
Our light affliction – Trials, which may include these battlings with our own flesh. R3275:2
The adverse influences of the present time constitute the grindstone upon which the jewels are polished. Satan, through his various agencies, is used of the Lord in turning the grindstone. SM325:T
As we consider our Master's experiences and faithfulness, it makes ours seem very light. R5684:5
"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee." (Is. 26:3) "No storm can shake our inmost calm, While to this Refuge clinging." We have peace, no matter what the outward conditions. R5879:2
The Royal Priesthood find a peace and joy to which formerly they were strangers, and which the world can neither give nor take away; for now their faith can firmly grasp the promises as their own. R2762:6
Rejoicing in spirit is necessary to our courage and zeal, even with the wound of every thorn and the pain of every sharp arrow of bitter words with which we are assaulted for Christ's sake. R4592:4
Rom. 12:1--"Present your bodies a living sacrificeson, law, prophecy, type and history. R1566:1
The loss may at first seem heavy, but if you endure it for Christ's sake, you will soon be able to say that such losses are not worthy to be compared with the offsetting blessings. (Phil. 3:8) R2444:2
It is our faith in our Father's wisdom and love that sustains us, that causes us to hope, and enables us to profit by our afflictions. R423:6*
These chiselings, chastisings "are not worthy to be compared with the glory that shall be revealed in us." (Rom. 8:18) NS604:5, 338:2
True Christians, the elect, enjoy superior joys with Christ Jesus and can thank God often for earthly adversities. "Before I was afflicted, I went astray." (Psa. 119:67) SM330:T
Those who have believed through the word of the apostles have the consolations of scriptures to offset troubles. SM271:T
Sufferings of self-sacrifice for godliness, righteousness, the Lord, his people, the truth, are accompanied by joy and peace; sufferings for correction and unfaithfulness lack joy and rejoicing. R1699:6
More of the mortification of our flesh comes from professed brethren than from any other source. NS592:2; SM630:1
Our afflictions do not work out for us this glory because we are looking at our business, our family, the world and its pleasures, and the many other things the enemy places about us to distract us. R456:1*
But for a moment – As compared with the eternity we hope to gain. R3275:2, 2405:1
A grand change is coming. Every sigh and tear and sacrifice for righteousness' sake shall be fully rewarded in a manner that is beyond our present comprehension, because we serve from devotion. R2543:4; OV425:T
Worketh for us – Preparing us for. R2413:3
The called and chosen are in "the school of Christ" now, for their development and testing. R3637:2
The Lord assures us that inherited physical weakness, troubles and pains permitted in the lives of sacrificers are not manifestations of God's wrath, but will be overruled to prepare them for glory. E411
God is making use of the implements of opposition which the Adversary is furnishing and is causing the wrath of men and devils to praise him; these experiences of his Church are working out for us glory. F628
Paul reasoned that if the sufferings of Christ are to measure the coming glories of Christ, then he was willing and anxious to fill up that which was behind in order to participate in those glories. R5951:5
Each of the Lord's chosen ones must prove their obedience by suffering in this present time, that they may be thus prepared for glory. To suffer much implies qualification for the higher glory hereafter. R2825:4
We are under divine supervision. This is the ground of our confidence and gives us the peace of God. "Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above." (John 19:11) R2786:6
To him that hath (used) shall be given (more) and from him that hath not (used) shall be taken away that which he hath. (Matt. 13:12) Faithfulness in little tr R2496:6
The Lord does not pour into our cup of sorrow and trial any bitter experiences that are not needful to us, and that will not subsequently work out for us the eternal glory. R2469:1
Any who have no opportunity for suffering with Christ cannot be of those "called;" for the terms are stated--If we suffer with him, we shall also reign with him; the sufferings work out for us the glory. (2 Tim. 2:12) R1782:6
When the Father permits the enemy to try us by unusual suffering, then we are compelled to cease our anxious chase after the things seen, and our spirits are drawn with unusual power to cry out: Lord, save us! R456:1*
Our dear Redeemer permits the temptations of life to assail us, and often fiery trials, promising that they shall work out for us glory. NS597:1
Those who have received the adoption of children of God and undergo special disciplinary trials are God's favorites. NS578:2
Even if Satan should appear to get the victory over us. R5185:1
Disputation is better than not to care; such fiery trials will work out good for you. The lukewarm lose the privilege of being followers of Christ, but the Little Flock let these experiences work for them. R5118:4
Far more exceeding – The parable of the pounds (Luke 19:17) shows differences of rewa in the kingdom of heaven." R1973:5
While an exceeding glory is to be the inheritance of all the elect Body, the Apostle clearly indicates that that treasure may be augmented by special zeal and faithfulness. R1821:2
Eternal weight of glory – "He called us unto his eternal glory." (1 Pet. 5:10) A211
"Obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ." (2 Thes. 2:14) A211
"Riches of the glory." (Col. 1:27) A211
"Like him." (1 John 3:2) A211
We are "called to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ." (2 Thes. 2:14) R5684:5
"The glory which thou gavest me, I have given them." (John 17:22) A211
Heavenly glory--the things that the Lord has promised to those that love him. R5223:6
We are to rejoice even under tribulation; for, rightly received, it will work out for us the "eternal weight of glory." The Lord promises us sustaining grace in the midst of trouble. R5758:4, 5546:6
We have the guarantee from the Lord that "all things shall work together for good to those that love God," who put their trust in him. (Rom. 8:28) Whatever would not be a b R5546:6
We desire to serve the Lord and be pleasing to him; be as close to him as possible. The closer we come to him in the present trials with faithfulness, the closer we will be to him in the future. R3362:6
The trials, difficulties and adversities of life, rightly accepted as lessons, are blessings in disguise and will result in glory in the life to come. R2737:3
"Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, and afterward receive me to glory." (Psa. 73:24) Our subjection to presente of God. R1561:2
When the reign of Christ begins, all the members of the Body will share the glory, share the reigning. NS338:3
In the continual warfare waged between the old nature and the new, their interests are so antagonistic that the development and victory of the one means the overthrow and destruction of the other. SM632:T
Because Paul had the hope of sharing his Master's glory, honor and immortality, he was willing to endure hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ and to count all his sufferings but light afflictions. R5851:1
The time for showing the divine favor to the elect has not yet come. When it does come, the Church will shine forth all glorious with their Lord. NS338:2
"Blessed are ye when men shall revile you. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad, for great is your reward in heaven." (Matt 5:11, 12) "If we suffer with hi R3776:5
The spirit-begotten seed of Abraham must be developed through trials before it can be used as God's agency in glory to bless all the families of the earth. SM784:1
|
| 18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. |
While – This little adverb "while" is the hinge on which the door of entrance to the glory hangs. R456:1*
Look not at the things which are seen – By the natural eye. R242:6
Popularity, worldly show, denominational greatness. E238; R279:6
Things of the present order. R5499:6
Earthly applause and glory. R5223:6
Uncertain and unsatisfactory. R1798:6
We labor not for these things, which we are "selling off." R1656:6
All the things of the present evil world are temporal in character; they are to pass away with the new dispensation which is just at the door; earthly honors and powers are of less value every minute. R5952:1, 1798:6
The things which are not seen – Spiritual and eternal things. E238
Glories to come. R5499:6
The crown, the throne, the Church whose names are written in heaven. R374:5
Eternal, sure to the faithful, of inestimable value; things revealed to the eye of faith in the promises of God; hopes, ambitions and joys of a higher, nobler order than those of the world. R1798:6
The hidden treasure, the treasures of God's gracious plan hid in Christ, which we are giving our little all to possess. R1656:6
None of the things which we prize are visible to the natural eye--our heavenly Father's smile, Jesus as our Leader, the "crown of life," and "prize of our high calling." R176:2
Faith deals with the future and the invisible. The future is our hope, our reward. The invisible is our strength for the work of life. R74:5*
Those in the school of Christ can appreciate that the trials which are upon the Lord's people are manifestations of divine favor--the tried ones are under inspection and being chastened, polished, prepared. NS328:5
Paul had spiritual eyesight. Earthly attractions lost their drawing power upon him because of his perception of the things unseen--the heavenly Father, the glorified Lord Jesus, the coming Kingdom. R5951:6
This was the secret of Paul's perseverance. He seemed never to weary. He was always on the alert, in season and out of season, ready to preach the gospel anywhere, everywhere, to all who would listen. R5951:6
God's children have a peace that the world knows not of, that the world can neither give nor take away. When the trials are all over, the Lord will make up for all his children have suffered. R5403:3
The entire Church of this age has been "looking unto Jesus." (Heb. 2:9) "We see Jesus." (Heb. 12:2 T85
With the eyes of their understanding, the "watchers" discern the second presence of the Lord in its due time, by the light of the divine Word. T85
The invisibility of the new being to mortals is implied in verses 14-18. R237:1*
Are temporal – Natural. R279:6
Some have experienced the tender care of their Counsellor and Guide, then lost that first love, becoming deaf to the precious promises, and are now striving merely for the things which perish. R4784:5
Are eternal – Whoever is without the knowledge of the Kingdom and without spiritual sight and hearing will necessarily be weak, and will lack the evidence of being a new creature in Christ Jesus. R5952:4
|