Epiphany Season · Transfiguration Sunday · Year B
2 Corinthians 4:3-6
Treasures in Jars of Clay
February 7, 2027
Overview & Insights
“But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God.” (2 Corinthians 4:7)
In 2:14–4:6, Paul defends the legitimacy of his apostleship by focusing on the glory of God that his ministry mediates. In the final section of this argument (4:1–6) Paul asserts the integrity of his ministry and claims that those who reject his apostleship and his gospel message are blinded by Satan. Paul goes back to his encounter with Christ on the Damascus road to establish the legitimacy of his apostleship. 2 Corinthians 4:1–6 concludes Paul’s argument as it began in 2:14–17, with reference to Paul’s vision of God’s throne. There are also several other striking correspondences between the beginning and the end of 2:14–4:6.
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Take it further: 2 Corinthians 4:3-6
Commentary
2 Corinthians 4:3-62 Cor 4:3-6 Working Preacher
Connects Paul's 'light shining out of darkness' to the glory of God seen in the face of Christ.
2 Corinthians 4:3-62 Cor 4:3-6 Center for Excellence in Preaching
A close reading of the veiled gospel and Paul's servant posture toward the church.
Classic commentaries on 2 Corinthians 4Classic commentaries on 2 Cor 4 BibleHub
Classic verse-by-verse commentaries on the chapter.
2 Corinthians 4 verse by verse2 Cor 4 verse by verse Precept Austin
A study library with Greek word studies, cross references, and illustrations.
2 Corinthians 4:3-62 Cor 4:3-6 Enduring Word · David Guzik
An accessible verse-by-verse commentary, widely used across evangelical churches.
Background & Word Study
Leading and Serving (2 Corinthians 4)Leading and Serving (2 Cor 4) Theology of Work
Reads Paul's transparency, weakness, and service as a model for leadership grounded in the gospel.
Overview: 2 CorinthiansOverview: 2 Cor BibleProject
An animated overview tracing Paul's defense of his ministry and his message of new-covenant glory.
The Church Fathers
Questions preachers ask
Why treasure in jars of clay?
The light of the gospel is carried in frail, breakable people, so that the extraordinary power is seen to be God's and not ours; afflicted yet not crushed, we carry the life of Jesus.
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