e100 Challenge Day 92 - A New Creation in Christ - II Corinthians 4:1-6:2

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, 

he is a new creation; the old has gone, 

the new has come" (5:17).

Today's passage is rich with meaning.   The Apostle Paul describes the ministry of the New Covenant. It's message changes everything in our lives.  When embraced by faith we gain an eternal perspective.  This life is temporary therefore we live our lives with a desire to please the Lord (5:9-10).  Paul was willing to suffer for this message, but with a perspective of eternity does not give up or lose heart (chapter 4), because he understood, "for our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all" (4:17).

We are ambassadors of this message, like the Apostle Paul, imploring people to be reconciled to God (5:20). This reality is possible because of what Jesus did on behalf of us.  He took our sin to the cross, paid its debt, "so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God" (5:21).

God calls us to not miss this wonderful offer of salvation (6:1-2).  It is available to all who will simply receive it by faith.

Discussion questions...

1. Why was Paul being attacked by some who questioned his motives for ministry in chapter 4?

2. Embedded in his defense is an amazing description of what God does in the life of the believer (4:1-6).  We also learn why people don't receive the message.  Think through the word, "blind" and the source of blindness.  And look back into chapter 3 to understand the concept of the "veil."

3. How should these two important ideas help us to pray for people who have not yet trusted in Christ as their Savior?

Prayer Ideas...

Thank God for lifting the veil of unbelief in your heart when He pierced your heart with the light of the gospel.  Thank God for salvation, an eternal perspective and a deep love for those who yet need a Savior.  

Thank God that now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation (6:2). Pray that God would release those who are spiritually blind so that they might believe and receive eternal life.

The Bux-Mont & Telford Campuses of the Penn Valley Church Multi-site Network are participating in the e100 Challenge, a 100-day Bible reading program. True revival comes from prayer and knowing the Word of God. We can only live the life God intended if we know what He says about it. Join us as we read through this plan and grow deeper in our knowledge of God's Word.