As Paul’s ministry expands, we often see him defending himself against false accusations and false teachers. Although He makes plenty of references in his writings to his authority as an apostle and the special knowledge he received directly from Christ, he always reverts back to defending one thing: the message of Christ.
The gospel for Paul is the ultimate truth, and his willingness to suffer humiliation and physical difficulties in proclaiming that truth testifies to how, in his own words, he was “controlled” by the message of Christ. This truth was a force pushing him, so-to-speak, to preach, teach, argue, and write. This force was the personal love of Christ that had so deeply changed him from a persecutor to a proclaimer.
In 2 Corinthians 4, we find Paul being unwilling to tamper, change, or alter the truth of Christ in any way. Christ came, He is the answer to sin and death, the cross did accomplish forgiveness, and the resurrection is a reality as true as the quill Paul used to write. Whether people believe it or not, it is true. The spiritual war that is an invisible reality of the human condition often blinds people to the truth. Only the power of Christ and the light of His countenance can lift the veil.
Reflect on Paul’s words. If you know Christ as Lord and Savior, then you can think back to that time when the “god of this world” blinded you to the truth of Christ. Rejoice in how God has revealed Himself and His Son to you. Ask Him to reveal other areas where you are still blind.
If you have never responded to Christ in faith, ask Him for forgiveness and salvation. Ask Him to remove the veil and shine the light of truth into your heart and mind that you may see Him for Who He truly is–the Creator, Savior, and Lord.
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