Browse Bible Study Resources

AS WE HAVE RECEIVED MERCY, WE DO NOT LOSE HEART

Text: 2 Corinthians 4:1-6
22 September 2013

(I) THE SAME SPIRIT OF FAITH EXPRESSED IN NOT LOSING HEART

1. Joseph did not lose heart even though he suffered much

2. Moses did not lose heart even though he had a difficult ministry leading the children of Israel to Canaan

3. Joshua did not lose heart as he led the conquest of Canaan

(II) ALL TOO EASY TO LOSE HEART

1. Because of tribulation (2 Corinthians 1)

2. Because of burdens that seem too much to bear (2 Corinthians 1)

3. Because of limited human strength (2 Corinthians 1)

4. Because of Satanic opposition (2 Corinthians 2:11)

(III) HOW MAY WE NEVER LOSE HEART IN LIFE AND MINISTRY?

1. Because we have “this ministry” (2 Corinthians 4:1)

a) A glorious ministry

b) An excellent ministry

c) A ministry of righteousness

d) A ministry of the Holy Spirit ( 2 Corinthians 3:6-12 )

2. Because we have received the mercy of God (2 Corinthians 4:1)

a) The mercy of God ( Psalm 103:8-12 )

b) The mercy of God

i) Uplifting

ii) Strengthening

Because of a clear understanding and practice of ministry

a) There is rejection of all worldly approaches ( 2 Corinthians 4:2 )

b) There is firm conviction to preach the word of truth ( 2 Corinthians 4:2 )

c) There is recognition and understanding that there will be some who will reject the gospel message ( 2 Corinthians 4:3-4 )

d) There is understanding that Satan has blinded some to the truth of the Gospel