Paul, Aren't You Afraid to Die? [2Corinthians 4:16-5:10]

By Pastor Jason Lim

Paul was fearless, even in the face of extreme persecution. How is it possible?

1. The Reasoning

His secret was in his perspective. He chose to focus on the unseen glory, which is eternal; and not on the seen affliction, which is transient. In fact, he sees his affliction as light and momentary, when compared with the eternal weight of glory that is to come. So, he was not afraid to die. He looked to the reward and joy that follow after death.

1. The Resurrection

The eternal glory is inextricably tied to the glorious resurrected body. He knew that even if his current body was destroyed, he will be clothed again with a better, more glorious and eternal body from God. His confidence was in God, who has assured him through the work of the Holy Spirit.

1. The Response

These spiritual realities require a response. It was not just emotional comfort for Paul, but that he would strive earnestly to please God in everything. Paul also highlighted another reason for his holy ambition- that he will stand before Jesus at the Bema judgment.

Today, you too can be freed from the fears that grip this world.

This is also a good time to reexamine our ambitions.

And lastly, may this message help you to be ready for the Bema judgment.