Preacher - Rev. T. Devaputhiran

Introduction

The Apostles’ Letters are like telephone conversations

STORY: Application received by a church

I. Background for II Corinthians

The historical context

1 Cor. 1:11, 3:1; 5:1, 2; 6:1; 8:2; 10:5, 6; 11:17, 18, 28, 29; 15:12.

The literary Context for the imagery

St. Paul’s appreciating and placating words in II Corinthians:

2 Cor. 2:1-8; 3: 2, 3, 6; 5:18, 20;

II. Why the imagery of Clay Jar?

 We are weak in body - 2 Cor. 12:7

 We are weak in mind – 2 Cor. 8, 10

 Powerless before the Powers and Principalities - Eph. 6:12

III. What are the Treasures in the Jar?

 God himself: 2 Cor. 6:16; 4:7

 Salvation

 Freedom - 3:17

 The power of the Holy Spirit - Acts 1:8

 New identity - 3:6; 5:20

 Love of God - Rm. 8:36, 37

 Abundant Life and Eternal life Jn. 10:10; 6:47