Treasure in Clay Jars

2 Corinthians 4:6-12

Introduction

1.      We live in a world filled with war, fighting, addiction and loneliness

2.      Jesus came to such a world as ours

3.      He brought hope and he built a church that brought hope and peace to millions

4.      He still brings hope, but the hope that he brings is through us  

Discussion

1.      The clay jar is a man

a.       This view is in stark contrast to the Hollywood model of handsome and beautiful  

b.      Even presidents must appear “presidential” in appearance, making one wonder if someone as ugly as Abraham Lincoln could be elected today  

c.       The Atlas ads of my boyhood  

d.      Contrast with Paul’s view in 2 Cor 5:1-4  

e.       Contrast with the body that will be – 1 Cor 15:42-44  

f.       The corruption extends to the mind as well – 1 Cor 1:18-25  

g.       And often envelopes the soul – Eph 2:3  

2.      The treasure is the gospel

a.       The past:  its value is seen in bringing redemption – Col 1:13-14  

b.      The present:  its value is seen in bringing relief from our burdens – Matt 11:28-30; Phil 4:7  

c.       The future:  its value is seen in giving eternal life – Rom 6:23; 1 John 5:13  

3.      The treasure is in the clay jar

a.       It was first of all in Jesus – John 1:14; John 6:38; 1 Cor 15:1-4  

b.      It was then in the apostles – Acts 1:8; Mark 16:15  

c.       It was then in the disciples who were baptized – Acts 2:41-42; Acts 8:4  

d.      It is now in us – the treasure is God’s message of salvation  

Conclusion

1.       Paul’s conclusion:  we speak – 2 Cor 4:13 – we speak because the value of the treasure is only realized in telling others – Acts 4:20 (the apostles)

2.      Philip ran to the chariot to tell the Ethiopian about Jesus (Acts 8:30)

3.      The gospel in your heart will lead you to become a Christian

4.      Commitment to Jesus is a commitment to tell others the good news that He died for them