Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God.
2 Corinthians 4:1-2 NIV
In 2 Corinthians 4:1–2, Paul reminds us of a profound truth: by God’s mercy we receive the ministry of the new covenant through Christ Jesus. Ministry does not begin with our strength or ability; rather, God, in His mercy, grants us the favour, opportunities, and above all, the gift of salvation that qualifies us to serve. Without salvation, no one can truly partake in this ministry. Therefore, salvation opens the way — the stepping stone for anyone who desires to be useful in God’s hands.
Paul stresses that God makes us right with Him, not by our efforts but through His grace. As he wrote elsewhere, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8). For this reason, salvation positions us to serve with confidence. Because of it, Paul declares that we must not lose heart. Discouragement, fear, and weariness remain real battles. Yet, God’s mercy strengthens us to continue. Moreover, He calls us to press on, even when we face persecution or opposition, knowing His grace provides enough for every trial.
In addition, Paul makes a strong appeal concerning integrity in ministry. He rejects every shameful and deceptive practice — the kind that twists or dilutes God’s word for personal gain. Instead, he insists that we proclaim the truth openly and clearly. This call remains as relevant today as it was in Paul’s time. Indeed, in a world that often compromises truth, believers must act as faithful stewards of the word of God. We must therefore handle it with sincerity, resisting the urge to soften its demands or distort its message.
Furthermore, this passage offers both encouragement and challenge. It invites us to examine ourselves honestly. How do I handle the word of God? Do I understand my place in His kingdom? Am I growing resilient, like Paul and the early believers, or am I allowing fear and weariness to silence me? On the other hand, the gospel is not something to feel ashamed of. Instead, God calls us to declare it boldly, with love and faith, trusting Him to use our obedience for His glory.
Above all, the right response is clear: live and share the gospel with sincerity. Stand firm against compromise. Speak the truth in love. Hold fast to faith and hope. As a result, we can remain faithful until the end. The mercy that calls us into ministry also sustains us through it.
Living It Out
This week, take time to reflect on how you handle God’s word. Do you share it with boldness, or do you sometimes shrink back in fear or weariness? If so, ask the Lord for fresh strength to remain faithful and courage to speak His truth with love. Remember, His mercy gives you this ministry, and His mercy will carry you through it.