It is interesting to note a significant shift of emphasis in Paul’s letters to the Corinthian church. In 1 Corinthians, Paul lays emphasis on gifts. In 2 Corinthians, he lays emphasis on life. In 1 Corinthians, Paul mentions many gifts and discusses their relative value to the church. But in 2 Corinthians, he is occupied with the subject of ministry and is concerned with the inward formation of Christ.
The “treasure (Christ) in the earthen vessel” is the basis of Paul’s incredibly fruitful ministry and the theme that runs through 2 Corinthians. In Paul’s thought, life is what serves the church and is the very basis of all true ministry. But life can only come out of death (2 Cor. 4:10-12).
The church increases because some are willing to suffer. By allowing God to work through our trials and tribulations—in humble submission to His will—God’s people make it possible for Him to supply His life to others. Paul was intimately acquainted with suffering –especially personal attacks from “false brethren” who were jealous of him.
While gifts are good, they can never make up for the deficiencies that we have as servants of God. Let me give an illustration. Suppose there is a brother and a sister in Christ who equally love the Lord. The brother is a gifted teacher, while the sister displays no particular gift at all. The brother is able to understand and expound the Scriptures, to express himself clearly, and to communicate wonderful illustrations.
As great as his gift is, however, he does not impart life to his hearers. Instead, he leaves them empty and cold. On the other hand, the sister, although outwardly ungifted, leaves a permanent and lasting impression on all who come in contact with her. When she shares with others freely out of her heart, the Holy Spirit breathes His life into them. She leaves them refreshed, enlightened, and encouraged. When people listen to her, they meet life. They touch Christ. What is the difference? The difference lies with the inward formation of life rather than with outward gifts.
God builds His church by gifts and life. Gifts are the tools, life is the substance. Consequently, gifts are not to be parted with. But to consider them to be the height of spirituality is to think as a child in spiritual things (1 Cor. 13:11). What is most prized in God’s estimate is the inward knowledge of His Son. And it is through His sovereign dealings with us that we acquire this inward knowledge. The knowledge of the risen Christ is the basis of all productive functioning in the Body of Christ and in the world.
Gifts are necessary, but they are not a mark of maturity. And they are never to be an occasion for boasting. When gifts are displayed properly, they establish faith. But as we mature spiritually, our dependence upon them for faith decreases.
