Gospel Ministry Creds iii

Why is is necessary that the breaking process be prolonged?

Introduction:

It is absolutely true that we live in a time when waiting is not typically considered a virtue. In spite of this cultural and human reality, it is especially true when what is being dragged out is some kind of suffering or trouble.

Illustration:

You all understand the “let’s get it over with” mindset. You go to get a flu shot. Let’s get it over with. You require life-saving surgery because of cancer. Let’s get it over with. Something as simple as removing tape from covered lips. You can peel it slowly and painfully, or you can pull the tape fast. “Let’s get it over with” is more than just a phrase. It is a way of life.

This is why I believe that these final two phrases and this lesson, in particular, are necessary. When suffering is prolonged or when trouble is dragged out, we often wonder, why? We are not asking “Why the trouble?” always; but we are asking, “Why so long?”

(1) II Corinthians 4:9 Notice that Paul recognizes the reality of this incomplete destruction

With the word “persecuted” Paul is saying that he is being put to flight like a hunted animal. Contrasted with this is the fact that he is not forsaken. One of the beautiful things about this phrase is put by another (NIGTC) as,

“we are persecuted by men, but never abandoned by God”

This is tremendously good news.

With the phrase “cast down” he means that he is knocked down. This is contrasted with “but not destroyed”. He is knocked down, but he is not knocked out. The honest truth is that there are times when it seems that it would be easier to be knocked out or to be destroyed. So, why the delay?

All four of the participles that are used in II Corinthians 4:8-9 still do not answer the question which I have posited, and honestly, they may be perceived as negative, if they are prolonging suffering.

Why is is necessary that the breaking process be prolonged?

As one man put it because, “through the cracks divine light shines to enlighten others.” (NAC)

Conclusion:

You see, for Paul the crucified Christ was not merely a message to be preached but a model to be emulated.

There is a glory which the Lord has placed within his people:

II Corinthians 3:7-11 - it is an exceeding glory which is within us

II Corinthians 3:18 - it is a sanctifying glory which is within us

II Corinthians 4:3, 5-6 - it is the glory of God in the good news (Jesus Christ)

II Corinthians 4:7 - The prolonged breaking process is so that we can continue to have physical life, which manifests eternal life to others. II Corinthians 4:12

Why?

II Corinthians 4:15 - Because of His glory.

As our body is spent, we learn to deal with trouble in a way that is empowered by God’s Spirit to persevere. This persistence in gospel ministry provides glimpses of the glorious gospel of the glorious God.

So at the end of all three of these lessons, you are left with one final question of introspection:

Is the glory of God worth this prolonged breaking process?

Is the glory of God worth the the physical wear?

Is the glory of God worth the acceptable losses?

Is the glory of God worth the fearful encounters?

Is the glory of God worth feeling abandoned?

Is the glory of God worth the emotional ups/downs?

Is the glory of God worth the verbal berating from parents?

Is the glory of God worth the difficult encounters with coworkers?

Is the glory of God worth juggling a busy schedule?

Is the glory of God worth the meager pay for such a life?