TREASURE IN JARS OF CLAY

Scripture:  2 Corinthians 4:7-12

Focus on the value, not the vessel
(2 Corinthians 4:7)

“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys the field.” (Matthew 13:44)

(1) When we focus on the vessel, we can become proud
(2) When we focus on the vessel, we can become discouraged
(3) When we focus on the vessel, we can miss the treasure all together

Focus on the promise, not the pressure
(2 Corinthians 4:8-10)

“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness’. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians 12:9-10)

(1) When we focus on the pressure, we can lose our perspective
(2) When we focus on the pressure, we can lose our peace
(3) When we focus on the pressure, we can lose our purpose

Focus on the calling, not the cost
 (2 Corinthians 4:11-12)

“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it.” (Luke 9:23-24)

(1) When we focus on the cost, we can lose our joy
(2) When we focus on the cost, we can lose our courage
(3) When we focus on the cost, we can lose our witness