1. A Wonderful Detour Chapters 2 – 7
The true nature and high calling of Christian ministry

2. Paul’s Description of Ministry (1)
The Triumphant nature of ministry
The Accredited nature of ministry
The Superior nature of ministry
The Honest nature of ministry

3. 2 Corinthians 4:7-5:10 Ministry (part two) It’s Suffering and Hope!

4. The Suffering nature of ministry
We are all simply “clay jars”.
Why does God allow suffering?
2 reasons
SUFFERING PERMITTED TO DEMONSTRATE THE LIFE OF JESUS (7-15)

5. 4 examples of overcoming suffering
Hard pressed on every side, but not crushed
Perplexed, but not in despair
Persecuted, but not abandoned
Struck down, but not destroyed
Showing the weakness of Paul and the power of God
Showing that with God’s power all our problems are surmountable.

6. The Suffering nature of ministry
We are all simply “clay jars”.
Why does God allow suffering?
2 reasons
SUFFERING PERMITTED TO DEMONSTRATE THE LIFE OF JESUS (7-15)
SUFFERING PRODUCES AN ETERNAL WEIGHT OF GLORY (16-18)

7. The Suffering nature of ministry
How can our inward man be renewed daily, our troubles seem light and temporary?
As long as Paul’s focus,
Provided our focus is on the unseen, on things that are eternal.
Chapter 5 
In the midst of suffering there is always hope.

8. The Hopeful nature of ministry
2 reasons to have hope
THE PROMISE OF A "BUILDING" FROM GOD (1-5)

9. The Hopeful nature of ministry
“A deposit, guaranteeing” = aarhabona
Engagement Ring

10. The Hopeful nature of ministry
2 reasons to have hope
THE PROMISE OF A "BUILDING" FROM GOD (1-5)
WHAT THIS PROMISE PRODUCES IN PAUL (6-10)

11. WHAT THIS PROMISE PRODUCES IN PAUL
Confidence!
A future glorified body and
The present gift of the Holy Spirit who is transforming him
His goal is to please Jesus!
Romans 14:12
And that should be our ambition as well.