Insightful Musings on the Scriptures

by

Raymond P. Sparre
Northwest University class of '67

It’s a simple statement—only 6 words. It makes very little sense to the typical unbeliever, but for those of us who have been touched by the Spirit of God, it is a profound description of our orientation and perspective. It’s a matter of believing God’s Word over and above our feelings (senses).

In the previous chapter, Paul gave us a faith standard for our perspective: “So we fix our eyes (eyes of faith) not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (2 Cor. 4:18). Please continue looking at what can’t be seen.

Let’s review some of the qualities of faith (things to believe) as contained in this passage: (1) I haven’t seen it or been there yet, but I believe I am headed toward a dimension of immortality with the Lord (vv. 1-10). (2) I understand that status to be conditional, therefore, by faith, I make it my “goal to please him” (v. 9) and “fear the Lord” (v. 11). (3) I believe I will participate in an unavoidable examination before “the judgment seat of Christ” (v. 10). (4) A huge amount of motivation is afforded me in the demonstration of the “love of Christ” (v. 14). (5) I have been given the “ministry of reconciliation” (v. 18) and my job description is like that of an “ambassador for Christ” (v. 20).