Sermons on 2 Corinthians 4:4-6

2 Corinthians 4:4-6 Interpretation:

Faith and Compassion: The Story of Bartimaeus (Bridgewater Open Bible Church) offers a unique analogy by paralleling the physical blindness of Bartimaeus with the spiritual blindness described in 2 Corinthians 4:4-6. The sermon draws a vivid metaphor: just as Bartimaeus could not see until Jesus intervened, so too are all people spiritually blind until God shines the light of Christ into their hearts. The preacher emphasizes that spiritual sight is not a matter of intellectual ability or moral effort, but a supernatural act of God, echoing the language of 2 Corinthians 4:6. The sermon also notes the Greek word "sozo" (translated as "made well" or "saved"), highlighting its dual meaning of both physical and spiritual salvation, and uses this to reinforce the idea that the healing of Bartimaeus is a picture of the deeper spiritual healing described by Paul.

Relying on the Spirit: Unity and the Power of the Word (Crazy Love) interprets 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 as a warning against relying on human cleverness or eloquence in ministry. The preacher insists that the passage teaches the futility of fleshly strategies for evangelism, since only the Spirit can overcome the blindness imposed by Satan. The sermon’s distinctive insight is its critique of modern ministry methods, arguing that any attempt to reach people apart from the Spirit and the Word actually diminishes the power of the gospel, as Paul warns in this passage.

Life Through Death: Embracing Christ's Sacrifice (Alistair Begg, Truth For Life) provides a detailed, context-rich interpretation, focusing on the supernatural nature of conversion. The sermon draws out the idea that the blindness described in 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 is not merely ignorance but a spiritual incapacity imposed by "the god of this world." The preacher uses the metaphor of "stepping out of darkness into the embrace of Jesus," and references the original Greek to highlight the active, divine agency in "shining" light into hearts. The sermon also uniquely connects the passage to the resurrection of Lazarus, arguing that just as only Jesus can call the dead to life, only God can open blind eyes to the glory of Christ.

Rejoicing in God's Sovereignty Amidst Life's Trials (Alistair Begg) uses 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 to explain why people persistently reject the gospel despite its beauty and truth. The sermon’s unique contribution is its analogy between the blindness of the world and the story of Bartimaeus, urging listeners to "acknowledge your blindness" and cry out for mercy. The preacher stresses that people "cannot even see that they can't see" until God intervenes, and that spiritual sight is a gift, not an achievement.

Faith in Action: Evangelism, Prayer, and Theology (Ligonier Ministries) offers a distinctive theological and practical application, focusing on the order of salvation (ordo salutis). The panelists argue that regeneration (the new birth) must precede faith, because, as 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 teaches, the natural person is spiritually blind and dead. The sermon uses the analogy of a "dead man" who cannot see or respond until God gives life and sight, and connects this to the necessity of the Spirit’s work in opening eyes to the glory of Christ.

Faith and Reason: A Heartfelt Journey to Christ (Ligonier Ministries) provides a deeply nuanced interpretation, emphasizing that the "light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ" is not merely intellectual assent but a spiritual apprehension of Christ’s beauty and worth. The preacher distinguishes between seeing Christ as a mere means to an end (forgiveness, safety, prosperity) and seeing Him as supremely valuable. The sermon uses the metaphor of "sitting in the chair" not just for safety but because the chair (Christ) is beautiful and desirable. The preacher also highlights that the decisive ground of saving faith is a spiritual sight of Christ’s glory, which is given by God’s sovereign act, not by human reasoning alone.

Embracing the Transformative Glory of God (Desiring God) interprets 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 as a declaration that the essence of the gospel is the revelation of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. The sermon uniquely emphasizes that the gospel is not merely a set of facts or a story, but a radiant display of divine glory that, when truly seen, draws the heart to hope and delight in God above all else. The preacher uses the metaphor of "streaming out of the gospel" to describe how the glory of Christ shines forth, and insists that spiritual perception—seeing or tasting this glory—is the key to genuine faith and joy. This interpretation stands out for its focus on the experiential and affective dimension of seeing glory, rather than just intellectual assent.

Seeing the Glory: Our Purpose in Christ (Desiring God) offers a distinctive interpretation by defining lostness as "blindness to glory"—specifically, the inability to see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ. The sermon draws a sharp line between mere exposure to Christian truth and the supernatural act of God shining light into the heart, which alone enables a person to see Christ as glorious. The preacher uses vivid analogies from nature and human experience (e.g., standing at the Grand Canyon, attending sports events) to illustrate that all humans have a built-in longing for something greater than themselves, which is ultimately fulfilled only in the vision of God's glory in Christ. This interpretation is notable for its existential and apologetic angle, connecting the text to universal human experiences of awe and longing.

Embracing Pressure: The Gospel's Transformative Power (Desiring God) provides a nuanced interpretation by distinguishing two aspects of Christ's work: the objective satisfaction of God's demands and the subjective satisfaction of the human soul in God's glory. The sermon insists that 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 reveals the gospel as the apex of God's self-revelation, and that saving faith is not just intellectual agreement but a Spirit-given sight of Christ as supremely valuable. The preacher urges pastors to preach the gospel not only as true but as beautiful and satisfying, and to rely on the Holy Spirit to open blind eyes. This interpretation is unique in its dual focus on the forensic and affective dimensions of salvation, and in its call for preaching that aims to awaken delight, not just understanding.

The Self-Authenticating Glory of Scripture (Desiring God) interprets 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 as a foundational text for the doctrine that the Scriptures are self-authenticating by virtue of the glory they reveal. The sermon (in interview format) draws a direct line from Paul's language about the "light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ" to the idea that the Bible proves itself to be God's word not by external arguments but by the peculiar, objective glory that shines through its message. The preacher uses the metaphor of Scripture as a window through which the glory of God is seen, and argues that this sight is a supernatural gift of the Spirit, not a product of human reasoning. This interpretation is especially notable for its application of the text to the doctrine of Scripture and for its use of analogies from art (Rembrandt) and nature.

Faith and Reason: Illuminating the Path to Christ (Desiring God) offers a deeply nuanced interpretation of 2 Corinthians 4:4-6, emphasizing that the passage is not merely about intellectual assent to the facts of the gospel, but about a supernatural, spiritual "sight" of the glory of Christ. The sermon draws a sharp distinction between the rational presentation of the gospel and the decisive, creative act of God in the heart, likening the latter to the original creation ("let there be light"). The preacher insists that the "light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ" is an objective reality, not a subjective projection, and that the removal of spiritual blindness is the essential miracle that brings about saving faith. The sermon uses the analogy of seeing the Grand Canyon—not just knowing it exists, but being overwhelmed by its beauty—to illustrate the difference between knowing gospel facts and truly seeing Christ's glory. The preacher also references the Greek text, noting the use of "theos tou aionos toutou" (the god of this age) and how the blinding is not a lack of data but a spiritual incapacity rooted in the heart's hardness. This interpretation is further enriched by the assertion that the Holy Spirit's work is not to add new information, but to remove blindness so that the already-present glory of Christ in the gospel can be seen.

Deliverance from Darkness: Embracing Christ's Light (Desiring God) interprets 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 as a description of the spiritual condition of unbelievers—blindness to the glory of Christ due to the dominion of Satan in this present evil age. The sermon uniquely frames the passage within the New Testament's two-age structure, highlighting that the "god of this age" (Satan) has a unique, temporary dominance that results in spiritual blindness. The preacher stresses that deliverance from this blindness is accomplished by God’s sovereign act of shining light into the heart, paralleling the original creation, and that this is the essence of conversion: seeing the glory of God in the face of Christ.

God: The Ultimate Treasure of the Gospel (Desiring God) provides a distinctive interpretation by focusing on the phrase "the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ" as the ultimate good of the gospel. The sermon argues that the highest benefit of the gospel is not forgiveness, justification, or even eternal life per se, but the revelation and enjoyment of God's glory in Christ. The preacher uses the analogy of a marriage relationship to illustrate that forgiveness is valuable only because it restores us to God, not as an end in itself. The passage is interpreted as teaching that true conversion is the opening of the heart to see and savor Christ as supremely valuable, and that this spiritual sight is the essence of saving faith.

Refined Faith: Embracing Trials for God's Glory (Desiring God) references 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 in the context of explaining how believers "see" Christ. The sermon interprets the passage as describing a spiritual seeing that is not physical but is mediated by the Holy Spirit through the word, resulting in a confidence and joy that enables believers to endure suffering and even face death. The preacher draws a distinction between physical sight and the "eyes of the heart" being enlightened, and uses the passage to argue that the assurance of the gospel's truth comes from this spiritual sight of Christ's glory.

Finding Satisfaction in God's Glory and Truth (Desiring God) offers a fresh interpretation by connecting the passage to the epistemological question of how we know the Bible is true. The sermon asserts that the "light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ" is both the ground of the mind's certainty and the goal of the soul's satisfaction. The preacher uses the analogy of seeing the sun in the sky to describe the self-authenticating nature of God's glory in the gospel, arguing that this spiritual sight is accessible to the uneducated as well as the learned, and is the basis for both assurance and joy.

Overcoming Spiritual Blindness Through God's Light (Desiring God) interprets 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 as a vivid depiction of the double blindness afflicting unbelievers: the internal rebellion of the heart and the external blinding work of Satan. The sermon uniquely emphasizes the necessity of both gospel proclamation and the sovereign, creative act of God in the heart ("let there be light") for conversion to occur. The preacher highlights the experiential transformation that occurs when God shines light into the heart, making the gospel suddenly appear as supremely beautiful and desirable.

Finding Joy in the Glory of Christ (Desiring God) offers a distinctive interpretation of 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 by emphasizing the phrase "the gospel of the glory of Christ" as the very heart of the gospel. The sermon unpacks this as not merely a message about forgiveness or rescue, but as the revelation and enjoyment of Christ’s glory as the supreme treasure. The preacher uses the analogy of spiritual taste buds being awakened by new birth, so that believers not only see but savor the glory of Christ, contrasting this with the devil’s blindness which prevents seeing Christ as beautiful. The sermon also highlights the Greek word for "image" (eik?n), noting that Christ is the perfect visible representation of God, and that the gospel’s ultimate aim is to bring believers into the enjoyment of this glory, not just the removal of obstacles to it. The preacher’s rose story further illustrates that true worship and glorification of God is found in being satisfied in Him, not in mere duty.

Awakening to the Glory of Christ: The Gospel's Power (Desiring God) interprets 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 by defining lostness as "blindness to glory"—a spiritual inability to perceive the beauty and worth of Christ. The sermon uses the metaphor of light shining from the gospel, which is objectively real but subjectively unseen by unbelievers due to satanic blindness. Conversion is described as a miracle akin to God’s original creation of light, where God sovereignly opens the eyes of the heart to see the glory of Christ. The preacher uses the analogy of a veil being lifted, referencing personal testimonies to illustrate the suddenness and irresistibility of this spiritual sight. The sermon also draws a parallel between the creative act in Genesis and the new creation in the believer’s heart, emphasizing the necessity of divine intervention for spiritual sight.

Trusting the Inerrancy of Scripture: A Personal Journey (Desiring God) interprets 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 as a foundational text for understanding how believers come to a well-grounded conviction of the Bible’s truthfulness. The sermon draws an analogy between seeing God’s glory in nature (Romans 1) and seeing His glory in the gospel word, arguing that the "light of the gospel of the glory of Christ" is a self-authenticating reality that compels belief. The preacher stresses that this seeing is not empirical but spiritual, and that God must remove the blinders for the heart to perceive the self-evident glory of Christ in the Scriptures. This interpretation is unique in its application of the passage to the doctrine of inerrancy and the epistemology of faith.

Experiencing the Glory: Paul's Prayer for Enlightenment (Desiring God) interprets 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 as a key to understanding why Paul prays for the eyes of the heart to be enlightened in Ephesians 1. The sermon uniquely connects the blindness described in 2 Corinthians 4:4 to the need for a miracle of spiritual sight, arguing that only the "Father of glory" can grant the ability to see the riches of God’s glory. The preacher uses the metaphor of spiritual blindness and the necessity of a creative act—God saying "let there be light"—to explain how believers come to perceive the hope, inheritance, and power described in Ephesians. This interpretation stands out for its integration of Pauline prayers and its focus on the necessity of divine illumination for spiritual knowledge.

Living as Sons of Light in Spiritual Awareness (Desiring God) provides a brief but notable interpretive link between 1 Thessalonians 5 and 2 Corinthians 4:4-6, using the latter to explain how spiritual blindness is remedied. The sermon highlights that the "god of this world" blinds unbelievers, and that becoming "sons of light" is the result of this blindness being removed, though it does not elaborate further.

Glorifying God: The Purpose of Our Redemption (Desiring God) interprets 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 as a profound explanation of why some people cannot see the glory of God in the gospel: they are spiritually blind, and only a miraculous act of God—akin to the original creation when God said, "Let light shine out of darkness"—can open the eyes of the heart to see the beauty and glory of Christ. The sermon uniquely emphasizes that Ephesians 1 never directly calls God's work "glorious" but expects us to see the glory, paralleling 2 Corinthians 4:4-6, where the inability to see glory is a spiritual blindness only God can heal. The analogy of "the eyes of your heart" being opened is central, and the sermon draws a parallel between the act of creation and the act of spiritual illumination, suggesting that seeing glory is not a matter of intellect but of a supernatural heart-opening.

Living by the Spirit: Beyond Rules to Transformation (Desiring God) offers a distinctive interpretation by focusing on the phrase "the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life" and connecting it to 2 Corinthians 4:4-6. The sermon uses the metaphor of "letters" (not just law, but all written words, including Shakespeare and news reports) as inherently deadening unless the Spirit brings them into relationship with the ultimate reality—the glory of Christ. The unique insight is that even the gospel, as mere words, can "kill" unless the Spirit removes the blindness described in 4:4-6, making the text a prism through which the glory of God shines. This interpretation is notable for its broad application of the "letter kills" principle and its insistence that only the Spirit's illumination brings true life and worship.

Awakening to Christ: The Joy of True Conversion (Desiring God) interprets 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 as a description of the miracle of conversion: the opening of blind eyes to see Christ as supremely valuable. The sermon uses the analogy of a treasure hidden in a field (Matthew 13:44) to illustrate the shift from loving darkness to loving the light of Christ, which is only possible when God shines light into the heart. The unique contribution here is the focus on conversion as a change in what one loves, not just what one believes, and the explicit connection between the "light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ" and the experience of supreme joy and satisfaction in God.

Valuing Christ: The Gift of Righteousness Through Faith (Desiring God) provides a nuanced interpretation by linking 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 to the experience of faith as seeing Christ as surpassingly valuable. The sermon draws a direct line from the removal of spiritual blindness (as described in 4:4-6) to the experience of counting all things as loss for the sake of Christ (Philippians 3). The unique insight is the identification of faith itself as the experience of seeing Christ's surpassing worth, and the assertion that this eye-opening is the very miracle described in 2 Corinthians 4:6. The metaphor of "treasure in jars of clay" is used to connect the surpassing worth of Christ to the experience of faith.

Joy in Christ: The Path to Love and Obedience (Desiring God) interprets 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 as the foundational miracle of the Christian life: the removal of blindness so that one sees "the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ" as one's supreme treasure. The sermon uniquely frames this as the starting point for all Christian love and obedience, emphasizing that without this miracle, there is no true love. The analogy of joy "overflowing" into love is central, and the sermon distinguishes between the initial miracle of seeing Christ's glory and the ongoing fight to sustain and expand that joy through obedience.

Reflecting the Glory of Jesus in Our Lives (SermonIndex.net) interprets 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 by emphasizing that the "light" is not merely the teachings, doctrines, or stories of Jesus, but the "glory" of Jesus—what makes Him uniquely special and precious to the believer. The sermon uses the analogy of something being "special" to a child (like a favorite toy) to illustrate how Jesus must become increasingly precious to the believer over time. It also introduces the metaphor of "colorblindness" and the "multicolored wisdom of God" (referencing Ephesians 3:10) to explain how spiritual blindness can prevent believers from appreciating the full spectrum of God's glory in Christ and in the diversity of the church. The sermon further distinguishes between total blindness (unbelievers) and partial blindness (believers who lose sight of Jesus' preciousness), and uses the metaphor of the "lamp" (from Luke 11:33-36) as the believer's conscience, arguing that a clear conscience is the vessel that displays the light of Christ's glory.

From Letter to Spirit: Embracing Life in Faith (SermonIndex.net) offers a unique linguistic insight by focusing on Paul's use of the word "letter" (gramma) rather than "law" or "commandment," arguing that the "letter"—even of the gospel—can kill unless the Spirit gives life. The sermon interprets 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 as Paul's answer to how the Spirit overcomes the deadly blindness of the heart, enabling believers to see and treasure the true glory of Christ in the gospel. The analogy of "letters" (from Shakespeare, news reports, theology books) is used to show that all written words are dead apart from the Spirit's illumination, which alone brings the "light" of the gospel to life.

"Experiencing God's Glory: A Spiritual Perspective" (SermonIndex.net), "God’s Peculiar Glory by John Piper" (SermonIndex.net), and Delighting in the Divine Glory of Scripture (SermonIndex.net) all interpret 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 through the lens of "seeing" the glory of God in the gospel by the miracle of spiritual sight. They use the analogy of physical sight (seeing the glory of nature or the incarnation) to explain spiritual sight—specifically, the "eyes of the heart" (Ephesians 1:18). These sermons highlight that the "light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ" is a peculiar, spiritual glory that cannot be apprehended by natural means but only by God's sovereign act of illumination. They further develop the idea of "peculiar glory" as a unique convergence of diverse excellencies (e.g., majesty and meekness in Christ) that authenticates the gospel as divine.

2 Corinthians 4:4-6 Theological Themes:

Faith and Compassion: The Story of Bartimaeus (Bridgewater Open Bible Church) introduces the theme that spiritual blindness is the default human condition, and that only God’s initiative can grant true sight. The sermon adds the facet that even persistent religious activity or exposure to truth is insufficient without God’s supernatural intervention, paralleling Bartimaeus’s helplessness with the spiritual helplessness described by Paul.

Relying on the Spirit: Unity and the Power of the Word (Crazy Love) presents the theme that reliance on human methods or eloquence in ministry actually undermines the gospel’s power, a fresh application of 2 Corinthians 4:4-6. The preacher insists that only the Spirit’s illumination can overcome satanic blindness, and that unity and love among believers are themselves a testimony that can pierce spiritual darkness.

Life Through Death: Embracing Christ's Sacrifice (Alistair Begg, Truth For Life) develops the theme that evidence and logic alone cannot compel faith, because spiritual blindness is a supernatural condition. The sermon adds the facet that the Spirit’s work is to "clear away the mists" so that the heart is prepared to receive the gospel, and that conversion is as miraculous as raising the dead.

Rejoicing in God's Sovereignty Amidst Life's Trials (Alistair Begg) uniquely applies the theme of spiritual blindness to the problem of suffering and disappointment, arguing that only a revelation of God’s glory can enable believers to rejoice amid trials. The sermon adds that acknowledging one’s blindness is the first step toward receiving God’s light.

Faith in Action: Evangelism, Prayer, and Theology (Ligonier Ministries) introduces the theme of the bondage of the will, arguing that the unregenerate person cannot choose Christ because of spiritual blindness, and that regeneration must precede faith. The panelists add that the Spirit’s work is to open the eyes of the heart to the glory of Christ, making faith possible.

Faith and Reason: A Heartfelt Journey to Christ (Ligonier Ministries) presents the theme that saving faith is not merely intellectual agreement but a spiritual apprehension of Christ’s glory and worth. The sermon adds the facet that the Spirit’s illumination is the only sufficient ground for faith, and that this sight of glory is both reasonable and necessary for true conversion.

Embracing the Transformative Glory of God (Desiring God) introduces the theme that the ultimate hope and joy of the Christian is not merely forgiveness or heaven, but the ever-increasing, never-ending experience of God's glory. The sermon develops the idea that eternity will be an endless unfolding of newness and delight in God's infinite glory, and that the Christian life now is a foretaste of that future. This theme is distinct in its emphasis on the infinite, dynamic nature of God's glory and the believer's delight in it.

Seeing the Glory: Our Purpose in Christ (Desiring God) presents the theme that all humans are created with a longing for transcendence, which is a "whisper" or "parable" of their true purpose: to see and savor God's glory. The sermon adds a fresh apologetic angle by arguing that common human experiences of awe (in nature, art, sports) are clues to the gospel, and that evangelism can connect with these longings to point people to Christ. This is a unique application of 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 to evangelism and cultural engagement.

Embracing Pressure: The Gospel's Transformative Power (Desiring God) adds the theme that saving faith is not merely assent to facts but a Spirit-wrought preference for the glory of God over all created things. The sermon explores the idea that faith is the "peculiarly receiving grace" that both receives Christ's objective work and delights in his subjective beauty. It also develops the theme that preaching must aim to display the gospel as irresistibly attractive, not just true, and that sanctification flows from this new preference for God's glory.

The Self-Authenticating Glory of Scripture (Desiring God) introduces the theme that the glory revealed in Scripture is "peculiar"—a unique blend of majesty and meekness, lion-like and lamb-like, that is objectively present and can be seen by the spiritually awakened. The sermon also explores the idea that the same spiritual sight that saves a person is what enables them to recognize the Bible as God's word, and that this sight grows over time as believers are exposed to more of Scripture's multifaceted glory. This theme is distinct in its application to the doctrine of Scripture and its apologetic implications.

Faith and Reason: Illuminating the Path to Christ (Desiring God) introduces the theme that saving faith is not merely intellectual assent or even trust, but a spiritual apprehension of Christ's glory that requires a new birth. The sermon adds the facet that the ground of faith is not historical probability or rational argument, but the self-authenticating glory of Christ seen in the gospel—a theme drawn from Jonathan Edwards but applied here to the epistemology of faith. The preacher also stresses that the Holy Spirit's testimony is not a separate message but the removal of blindness to what is objectively present in the gospel.

Deliverance from Darkness: Embracing Christ's Light (Desiring God) presents the theme that deliverance from the present evil age is fundamentally a deliverance from spiritual blindness, and that this is accomplished by union with Christ through faith, resulting in a transfer from the domain of darkness to the kingdom of God's Son. The sermon adds the angle that the blinding work of Satan is specifically to prevent the sight of Christ's glory, and that the new covenant reality is the restoration of this sight.

God: The Ultimate Treasure of the Gospel (Desiring God) develops the theme that the ultimate aim of the gospel is to bring believers into the enjoyment of God's glory in Christ, not merely to provide forgiveness or escape from hell. The sermon adds the facet that all gospel benefits are means to the end of seeing and savoring God, and that saving faith is defined as being satisfied in all that God is for us in Christ. The preacher also critiques the prosperity gospel as offering what the natural man already wants, rather than the supernatural desire for God himself.

Refined Faith: Embracing Trials for God's Glory (Desiring God) introduces the theme that spiritual sight of Christ's glory, as described in 2 Corinthians 4:4-6, is the basis for a joy that is "inexpressible and filled with glory," enabling believers to endure suffering. The sermon adds the nuance that this joy is a foretaste of the glory to be revealed, and that the assurance of faith is grounded in this spiritual seeing.

Finding Satisfaction in God's Glory and Truth (Desiring God) presents the theme that the quest for truth and the quest for joy are one and the same, both fulfilled in the sight of God's glory in the gospel. The sermon adds the unique angle that the self-authenticating glory of God in the word is both the ground of certainty and the goal of satisfaction, making epistemology and doxology inseparable.

Overcoming Spiritual Blindness Through God's Light (Desiring God) emphasizes the theme that conversion is a miracle of spiritual illumination, not a human achievement, and that the beauty and power of the gospel are only seen when God sovereignly removes blindness. The sermon adds the facet that this transformation is both irresistible and freely embraced by the renewed heart.

Finding Joy in the Glory of Christ (Desiring God) introduces the theme that the ultimate good of the gospel is not merely the removal of obstacles (wrath, guilt, alienation, etc.), but the positive enjoyment of Christ’s glory as the supreme treasure. The sermon argues that all other gospel benefits are means to this end, and that true conversion is marked by a new spiritual taste for Christ’s beauty. This theme is further developed through the idea that God is most glorified when believers are most satisfied in Him, making joy in Christ both the goal and evidence of salvation.

Awakening to the Glory of Christ: The Gospel's Power (Desiring God) presents the theme that lostness is fundamentally a blindness to spiritual reality, not merely ignorance or rebellion. The sermon adds the facet that conversion is a sovereign, creative act of God, paralleling the original creation, and that evangelism is the human means through which God accomplishes this miracle. The preacher also stresses the paradox that God commands believers to do what only He can ultimately accomplish, highlighting the interplay between divine sovereignty and human responsibility.

Trusting the Inerrancy of Scripture: A Personal Journey (Desiring God) develops the theme of the self-authenticating nature of Scripture, arguing that the glory of Christ seen in the gospel is the ground of faith in the Bible’s truthfulness. The sermon adds the angle that this spiritual sight is analogous to perceiving God’s glory in creation, and that it is both a gift and a responsibility.

Experiencing the Glory: Paul's Prayer for Enlightenment (Desiring God) introduces the theme that spiritual knowledge and perception of glory are themselves gifts of God, requiring a miracle of illumination. The sermon uniquely ties this to the character of God as the "Father of glory," suggesting that only the source of all glory can grant the capacity to see it. This theme is applied to the Christian life as a continual dependence on God for spiritual sight.

Living as Sons of Light in Spiritual Awareness (Desiring God) adds the facet that spiritual sonship—being "sons of light"—is not merely a status but a transformation of loves, wills, and works, rooted in the removal of satanic blindness as described in 2 Corinthians 4:4-6.

Glorifying God: The Purpose of Our Redemption (Desiring God) introduces the theme that God's pursuit of his own glory is the ultimate act of love, not selfishness. Drawing on C.S. Lewis, the sermon argues that praise is the consummation of joy, and that God seeking our praise of his glory is the most loving thing he can do, because our greatest joy is found in seeing and savoring his glory. This theme reframes the doctrine of God's self-exaltation as the foundation of human happiness.

Living by the Spirit: Beyond Rules to Transformation (Desiring God) presents the theme that all written words, even Scripture, are deadening apart from the Spirit's work, and that true spiritual life comes only when the Spirit removes the blindness described in 2 Corinthians 4:4-6. The sermon adds the facet that the Spirit's illumination is not just for understanding the gospel, but for seeing all of reality—law, literature, even suffering—in relationship to the glory of Christ, thus transforming all of life into worship.

Awakening to Christ: The Joy of True Conversion (Desiring God) develops the theme that conversion is fundamentally a change in what one treasures and loves, not merely intellectual assent. The sermon adds the angle that the miracle of seeing Christ as supremely valuable is the essence of saving faith, and that this is the work of God shining light into the heart, as described in 2 Corinthians 4:6.

Valuing Christ: The Gift of Righteousness Through Faith (Desiring God) introduces the theme that faith is not just belief but the experience of Christ as surpassingly valuable, and that this experience is the direct result of the miracle described in 2 Corinthians 4:6. The sermon adds the facet that this faith is ongoing and persevering, not a one-time event, and that it is inseparable from the experience of seeing Christ's glory.

Joy in Christ: The Path to Love and Obedience (Desiring God) presents the theme that the miracle of seeing Christ's glory is the foundation for all Christian love and obedience, and that there is a two-level fight for joy: the initial miracle of new birth, and the ongoing pursuit of deeper joy through acts of love and obedience. The sermon adds the angle that obedience itself, empowered by the Spirit, brings new and expanded experiences of joy in Christ, which are also blood-bought and part of the new covenant.

Reflecting the Glory of Jesus in Our Lives (SermonIndex.net) introduces the theme that the true mark of spiritual sight is not doctrinal knowledge or moral victory, but the increasing preciousness of Jesus to the believer—a dynamic, relational treasuring of Christ's glory. It also presents the idea that spiritual blindness can affect believers, not just unbelievers, and that the multicolored wisdom of God is displayed in the diversity and unity of the church, echoing the "rainbow" metaphor for God's manifold glory.

From Letter to Spirit: Embracing Life in Faith (SermonIndex.net) presents the distinct theme that the "letter" (even of the gospel) is inherently deadly without the Spirit's work, and that the Spirit's primary role is to remove the blindness of the heart so that the believer can see the true glory of Christ. This theme is developed through the linguistic nuance of "gramma" and the radical assertion that all written words, even Scripture, are dead apart from the Spirit's illumination.

"Experiencing God's Glory: A Spiritual Perspective," "God’s Peculiar Glory by John Piper," and Delighting in the Divine Glory of Scripture (all SermonIndex.net) develop the theme that the ultimate warrant for faith is the direct, spiritual apprehension of God's glory in the gospel—a "sight" given by God that is accessible to the simplest believer and not dependent on intellectual or historical argumentation. They emphasize that this "peculiar glory" is self-authenticating and is the foundation for both certainty and joy in the Christian life.

2 Corinthians 4:4-6 Historical and Contextual Insights:

Faith and Compassion: The Story of Bartimaeus (Bridgewater Open Bible Church) provides detailed historical context about Jericho in Jesus’ day, describing it as a medical hub where blindness was common and often treated with balsam. The sermon explains the social status of beggars and the significance of Bartimaeus’s location on a major trade route during Passover, which adds depth to the analogy of spiritual blindness and the need for divine intervention.

Life Through Death: Embracing Christ's Sacrifice (Alistair Begg, Truth For Life) offers historical context regarding the opposition Jesus faced from the religious leaders, tracing their increasing frustration and animosity through the Gospel of John. The sermon situates 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 within the broader narrative of Jewish resistance to Jesus, emphasizing that spiritual blindness was a persistent problem even among those with the greatest religious privileges.

The Self-Authenticating Glory of Scripture (Desiring God) provides historical context by referencing the theological tradition of self-attestation in Scripture, particularly as developed by John Calvin (the internal testimony of the Spirit), Jonathan Edwards (the "single step" of seeing divine glory), and the Westminster Catechism. The sermon explains how these historical figures understood the process by which believers come to certainty about the Bible's truthfulness—not through complex arguments, but through a direct, Spirit-given sight of glory. It also discusses how this doctrine was relevant in the context of global missions, where people in diverse cultures and with little education could come to faith through exposure to the Bible in their own language.

Deliverance from Darkness: Embracing Christ's Light (Desiring God) provides historical context by explaining the New Testament's two-age structure ("this age" and "the age to come") and how Paul's reference to "the god of this age" reflects the temporary, but real, dominion of Satan over the present world. The sermon situates 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 within this framework, clarifying that the blinding of unbelievers is a feature of this present evil age, which will be ended at Christ's return.

Awakening to the Glory of Christ: The Gospel's Power (Desiring God) provides historical context by referencing the cultural and religious background of Paul’s audience, particularly the Jewish understanding of blindness and the significance of light as a metaphor for divine revelation. The sermon also references the practice of not pronouncing the Father’s name in Jewish culture, as recounted in a conversion testimony, to illustrate the radical nature of coming to see Jesus as God (Elohim). This contextual detail deepens the understanding of the passage’s impact on both ancient and modern hearers.

Awakening to Christ: The Joy of True Conversion (Desiring God) provides a brief historical insight into the parable of the treasure in the field (Matthew 13:44), noting that in Jesus' time, the law allowed a person who bought a field to own any treasure found in it. This detail explains why the man in the parable covers up the treasure and sells all he has to buy the field, illustrating the radical reorientation of values that conversion entails.

Reflecting the Glory of Jesus in Our Lives (SermonIndex.net) provides a contextual insight by distinguishing between the total blindness of unbelievers (as referenced in 2 Corinthians 4:4) and the partial or functional blindness that can afflict believers, drawing on the story of the blind man who saw "men as trees walking" (Mark 8:24) to illustrate the gradations of spiritual sight and blindness.

" Delighting in the Divine Glory of Scripture," "God’s Peculiar Glory by John Piper," and "Experiencing God's Glory: A Spiritual Perspective" (all SermonIndex.net) offer historical insight by referencing Jonathan Edwards' ministry among the Housatonic Indians, highlighting the challenge of how non-literate or newly converted people can have a well-grounded conviction of the gospel's truth apart from historical reasoning. They argue, following Edwards, that the "internal evidence" of the gospel's divine glory is sufficient for saving faith, making the gospel accessible across cultures and educational backgrounds.

2 Corinthians 4:4-6 Cross-References in the Bible:

Faith and Compassion: The Story of Bartimaeus (Bridgewater Open Bible Church) references several passages to expand on 2 Corinthians 4:4-6: John 3:19-21, which explains that people love darkness rather than light; 1 John 3:16, which calls believers to see and respond to the needs of others; Ephesians 1:15-19, where Paul prays for the "eyes of your heart" to be enlightened; and Psalm 17:6 and 54:2, which model prayers for God to hear and respond. These references are used to illustrate the need for spiritual sight, the connection between seeing and loving others, and the role of prayer in seeking God’s illumination.

Life Through Death: Embracing Christ's Sacrifice (Alistair Begg, Truth For Life) cross-references John 12:44-46, where Jesus declares Himself the light of the world; John 9, the healing of the man born blind; and John 11, the raising of Lazarus. The sermon uses these passages to show that Jesus’ miracles were signs pointing to His identity as the one who brings light and life, and that the persistent unbelief of the religious leaders illustrates the depth of spiritual blindness described in 2 Corinthians 4:4-6. The preacher also references Romans 1, which explains that people suppress the truth in unrighteousness, and 1 Corinthians 2, where Paul resolves to know nothing but Christ crucified, emphasizing the Spirit’s role in revealing truth.

Rejoicing in God's Sovereignty Amidst Life's Trials (Alistair Begg) references Psalm 105 and Psalm 132 to illustrate God’s faithfulness to His anointed ones, and alludes to Romans 8 to reinforce the security of believers in Christ. The sermon uses these passages to support the idea that God’s sovereign action is necessary to overcome spiritual blindness and sustain faith amid trials.

Faith in Action: Evangelism, Prayer, and Theology (Ligonier Ministries) references John 6:63 ("the Spirit gives life; the flesh is no help at all"), 1 Corinthians 2 (Paul’s resolve to preach Christ crucified), John 11:26 (the necessity of being made alive before believing), and Romans 10 (faith comes by hearing the word). The panelists use these passages to support the doctrine that regeneration precedes faith and that the Spirit’s work is essential for conversion.

Faith and Reason: A Heartfelt Journey to Christ (Ligonier Ministries) references Matthew 16:1-4 (the Pharisees’ demand for a sign), Ephesians 4:18 (darkened understanding due to hardness of heart), 2 Corinthians 3:14 (the mind is hardened), 1 Timothy 6:5 (the mind is depraved), Romans 1:21 (futile thinking), and the parable of the soils (Matthew 13). The sermon uses these passages to show that spiritual blindness is rooted in the heart’s desires, and that only the Spirit can grant the sight of Christ’s glory necessary for saving faith.

Embracing the Transformative Glory of God (Desiring God) references Romans 8:18 and 8:21 to support the idea that the glory to be revealed to believers far surpasses present sufferings, and that the ultimate hope is to be transformed by and into God's glory. It also cites 2 Corinthians 3:17 (transformation from one degree of glory to another), 1 Corinthians 2:7 (God's wisdom predestined for our glory), 2 Corinthians 12 (Paul's vision of heaven), and Philippians 3 (counting all as loss for Christ), weaving these texts together to show the centrality of glory in the Christian hope.

Seeing the Glory: Our Purpose in Christ (Desiring God) cross-references 1 Corinthians 1 (the cross as foolishness to some, power to others), Acts 10:43 (forgiveness through faith), Matthew 5:16 (good deeds leading to God's glory), 2 Corinthians 8:2, Hebrews 10:34, and others to show how satisfaction in God leads to love and generosity. The sermon also references Romans 1:8-9 (suffering leading to reliance on God) and uses these texts to build a holistic vision of Christian life as rooted in the vision of God's glory.

Embracing Pressure: The Gospel's Transformative Power (Desiring God) references 1 Corinthians 15:3 (the gospel as historical event), Galatians 1 (Paul's defense of his apostleship), Romans 1:21 (failure to glorify God), 1 John 3:4 (sin as lawlessness), 2 Thessalonians 1:8 (judgment on unbelief), 1 Peter 2:24 (Christ bearing our sins), Isaiah 53:5 (the suffering servant), Philippians 2 (Christ's obedience), Hebrews 2:14 (Christ defeating death), Colossians 2:14 (disarming Satan), 1 Peter 3:18 (Christ bringing us to God), Ephesians 1 (God's plan), and others. These references are used to show the multifaceted achievement of Christ and the necessity of faith as the means of receiving it.

The Self-Authenticating Glory of Scripture (Desiring God) references Ephesians 1 ("eyes of the heart"), John 7:17 (willingness to do God's will leads to knowledge), Matthew 5 (Jesus' affirmation of the law), Romans 9 (God's glory in judgment and mercy), and the Psalms ("in your light do we see light") to support the argument that spiritual sight is both the means of salvation and the means of recognizing the Bible's truth. The sermon also alludes to the Gospels (the glory of Christ in the incarnation and miracles) and the Old Testament (the glory of God in creation and judgment).

Faith and Reason: Illuminating the Path to Christ (Desiring God) references several passages to support and expand on 2 Corinthians 4:4-6: Ephesians 4:18 (darkened understanding due to hardness of heart), 2 Corinthians 3:14 (the mind is hardened), 1 Timothy 6:5 (the mind is depraved), Romans 1:21 (futile and darkened thinking), Matthew 13 (parable of the soils and the necessity of understanding), 2 Timothy 2:7 (think over what I say, for the Lord will give you understanding), and Acts (Paul reasoning with unbelievers). These references are used to show that spiritual blindness is rooted in the heart, that reason is necessary but not sufficient, and that understanding is a gift of God.

Deliverance from Darkness: Embracing Christ's Light (Desiring God) cross-references Ephesians 1 (two-age structure), Matthew 12 (this age and the age to come), Ephesians 2 (deadness and blindness), Colossians 1:13 (delivered from the domain of darkness), and Galatians 6 (crucified to the world). These passages are used to situate 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 within the broader biblical narrative of deliverance from darkness and transfer to Christ's kingdom.

God: The Ultimate Treasure of the Gospel (Desiring God) references John 1:12 (receiving Christ), Philippians 1:20-21 (magnifying Christ by being satisfied in him), John 11 (the love of God and the glory of God in the raising of Lazarus), Romans 5:1-2 (justification leading to rejoicing in God), Ephesians 1:7 and Colossians 1:14 (forgiveness), John 17:3 (eternal life as knowing God), and 1 Corinthians 16:22 (loving Christ as essential to salvation). These references are used to show that all gospel benefits are means to the end of enjoying God, and that saving faith is defined by satisfaction in Christ.

Refined Faith: Embracing Trials for God's Glory (Desiring God) cross-references 1 Peter 5:1, 5:4, 5:6 (sharing in glory, receiving the crown of glory, being exalted), 1 Corinthians 4:5 (receiving praise from God), Romans 2:6-7, 2:29 (seeking glory and honor, praise from God), Matthew 10:37 (loving Christ above all), and Ephesians 1:17 (the eyes of your heart enlightened). The sermon uses 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 to explain how believers "see" Christ and are transformed by this sight.

Finding Satisfaction in God's Glory and Truth (Desiring God) references Romans 1:20-23 (knowledge of God through creation), Psalm 19:1 (the heavens declare the glory of God), John 1:14 (seeing Christ's glory), John 14:8-9 (seeing the Father in Christ), and James 1:18 (the implanted word). The sermon uses 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 as the key text for the self-authenticating glory of God in the gospel, and draws analogies to seeing God's glory in nature and in Christ.

Overcoming Spiritual Blindness Through God's Light (Desiring God) references John 3 (loving darkness rather than light), Genesis 1 (creation: "let there be light"), and Romans (the new birth as a creative act). The sermon uses these references to illustrate the necessity of both gospel proclamation and divine illumination for conversion.

Finding Joy in the Glory of Christ (Desiring God) references a wide array of biblical passages to support and expand on 2 Corinthians 4:4-6. These include Romans 5:9 and Galatians 3:13 (removal of wrath), Ephesians 2:13 and Romans 5:10 (reconciliation), Ephesians 1:7 and 1 Peter 2:24 (forgiveness), 2 Corinthians 5:21 and Romans 5:19 (justification), Romans 8:11 and John 11:25-26 (resurrection), Ephesians 2:4-5 (new birth), Colossians 2:15 and Hebrews 2:14 (defeat of Satan), and Ephesians 1:5-6 (praise of God’s glory). Each reference is used to show how the gospel removes obstacles to joy and culminates in the enjoyment of Christ’s glory.

Awakening to the Glory of Christ: The Gospel's Power (Desiring God) cross-references Genesis 1 (creation of light), Acts 26:17-18 (Paul’s commission to open eyes and turn people from darkness to light), Colossians 1:13 (transfer from darkness to light), 1 Peter 4:11 (serving in God’s strength), and 2 Timothy 2:24-26 (the Lord’s servant teaching with gentleness so that God may grant repentance and deliverance from the devil). These passages are used to reinforce the themes of spiritual blindness, divine illumination, and the role of human messengers in God’s saving work.

Trusting the Inerrancy of Scripture: A Personal Journey (Desiring God) references Romans 1:20 (seeing God’s glory in creation), John 1:14 (beholding Christ’s glory), Psalm 119:60 (the truth of God’s word), and John 10:35 (Scripture cannot be broken). These are used to draw parallels between the self-authenticating nature of God’s revelation in creation and in Scripture, and to ground the doctrine of inerrancy in the experience of seeing Christ’s glory.

Experiencing the Glory: Paul's Prayer for Enlightenment (Desiring God) cross-references Ephesians 1:3-14 (the revelation of glory), Romans 5:2 and Titus 2:13 (the hope of glory), Romans 6:4 (resurrection by the glory of the Father), and 2 Corinthians 4:4-6 (spiritual blindness and illumination). These references are used to show that the prayer for enlightenment is rooted in the need for a miracle of sight, and that all aspects of Christian hope, inheritance, and power are ultimately aspects of God’s glory.

Living as Sons of Light in Spiritual Awareness (Desiring God) references John 8 (children of Abraham and the devil), using Jesus’ teaching to explain the nature of spiritual sonship and its connection to the removal of blindness as described in 2 Corinthians 4:4-6.

Glorifying God: The Purpose of Our Redemption (Desiring God) references Ephesians 1:3-14 and Ephesians 1:17-18 to show that the ability to see God's glory is a supernatural gift, paralleling Paul's prayer for the "eyes of your hearts" to be enlightened. The sermon also references Psalm 19, Isaiah 43, Philippians 1, and John 17 to support the theme that all of God's actions are for his glory, and that seeing this glory is the ultimate purpose of redemption.

Living by the Spirit: Beyond Rules to Transformation (Desiring God) references 2 Corinthians 2:15-16 to illustrate that the gospel itself can be a "fragrance from death to death" or "from life to life," depending on whether the Spirit has removed spiritual blindness. The sermon also alludes to the broader context of 2 Corinthians 3 and 4 to support the argument that the Spirit's work is essential for true life.

Awakening to Christ: The Joy of True Conversion (Desiring God) cross-references Matthew 13:44-46 (the treasure and the pearl), John 3:19 (people loving darkness rather than light), Romans 5 (rejoicing in the hope of the glory of God), and Deuteronomy 30:6 (the promise of a circumcised heart that loves God) to build a comprehensive biblical case for conversion as the awakening to Christ's supreme value, all tied together by the miracle described in 2 Corinthians 4:4-6.

Valuing Christ: The Gift of Righteousness Through Faith (Desiring God) references Philippians 3:7-9 (counting all as loss for Christ), Galatians 2:17, and 2 Corinthians 4:4-7 (the treasure in jars of clay) to show that the experience of faith as seeing Christ's surpassing worth is the result of the miracle of spiritual illumination described in 2 Corinthians 4:6.

Joy in Christ: The Path to Love and Obedience (Desiring God) references Matthew 13:44 (the treasure in the field), 2 Corinthians 8:1-2 (joy overflowing in generosity), Romans 5:2-5 (rejoicing in hope and suffering), 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 (boasting in weakness for the sake of Christ's power), Acts 5:41 (rejoicing in suffering for Christ), Acts 20:35 (more blessed to give than to receive), and numerous New Testament commands to illustrate the two-level fight for joy and the relationship between seeing Christ's glory and living in obedience.

Reflecting the Glory of Jesus in Our Lives (SermonIndex.net) references Matthew 13:44 (the parable of the hidden treasure) to illustrate the "sell all" mentality that comes from treasuring Christ's glory, Ephesians 3:10 to explain the "multicolored wisdom of God," John 17:22 to show that the glory of Jesus is given to the church for unity, and Luke 11:33-36 to argue that the "eye" (conscience) is the lamp that displays the light of Christ.

From Letter to Spirit: Embracing Life in Faith (SermonIndex.net) references 2 Corinthians 2:15-16 to show that the gospel can be a "fragrance from death to death" or "life to life," depending on the Spirit's work, and uses this to support the idea that the "letter" kills unless the Spirit gives life.

"Experiencing God's Glory: A Spiritual Perspective," "God’s Peculiar Glory by John Piper," and Delighting in the Divine Glory of Scripture (all SermonIndex.net) cross-reference Psalm 19:1 ("the heavens declare the glory of God") and Romans 1:19-21 (God's invisible attributes revealed in creation) as analogies for how God's glory is seen in the gospel. They also reference John 1:14 ("we have seen his glory") and John 14:8-9 (Jesus as the revelation of the Father) to draw parallels between seeing Christ's glory in the incarnation and seeing God's glory in the gospel. Ephesians 1:18 ("the eyes of your heart") is cited to explain the concept of spiritual sight, and 1 Corinthians 2:14 is used to show that the natural person cannot receive spiritual things without the Spirit's illumination.

2 Corinthians 4:4-6 Christian References outside the Bible:

Life Through Death: Embracing Christ's Sacrifice (Alistair Begg, Truth For Life) explicitly references Gresham Machen, quoting his view that the Spirit’s work is to "clear away the mists" so that the heart can attend to the evidence of the gospel. The sermon also cites Charles Spurgeon, who describes conversion as the Spirit dropping the living seed into a heart prepared for its reception, and C.S. Lewis, who speaks of being "surprised by joy" as a metaphor for the unexpected nature of true faith.

Faith and Compassion: The Story of Bartimaeus (Bridgewater Open Bible Church) references Chuck Swindoll for historical details about Jericho, Helen Keller’s quote ("better to be blind and see with your heart than to have two good eyes and see nothing"), and Fanny Crosby’s testimony about her blindness and her longing to see Christ’s face first.

Faith in Action: Evangelism, Prayer, and Theology (Ligonier Ministries) references Martin Luther’s "The Bondage of the Will," highlighting Luther’s argument that the sinner’s will is bound and cannot choose God without the Spirit’s prior work. The panelists also mention B.B. Warfield’s booklet "The Religious Life of Theological Students," and D.A. Carson’s "Memoirs of an Ordinary Pastor" as resources for understanding prayer and spiritual formation.

Faith and Reason: A Heartfelt Journey to Christ (Ligonier Ministries) quotes J. Gresham Machen ("What is Faith?") and Andrew Fuller, both of whom argue that faith is a "receiving grace" rather than a work or virtue. The sermon also references Jonathan Edwards, particularly his teaching that saving faith arises from a spiritual sight of Christ’s glory, and alludes to R.C. Sproul’s and John Calvin’s views on faith and religious affections.

Seeing the Glory: Our Purpose in Christ (Desiring God) explicitly references Jonathan Edwards, quoting from his sermon "God Glorified in the Work of Redemption" (1731) to articulate the idea that God himself is the great good and inheritance of the redeemed, and that all joy in heaven is ultimately joy in God. The preacher uses Edwards' language to reinforce the centrality of God's glory as the Christian's ultimate treasure.

The Self-Authenticating Glory of Scripture (Desiring God) explicitly references John Calvin (the internal testimony of the Spirit), Jonathan Edwards (the "single step" of seeing divine glory in the gospel), John Owen (the self-evidencing nature of Scripture), and the Westminster Catechism (the peculiar glory of Scripture). The sermon also interacts with objections raised by contemporary scholars such as Craig Blomberg, Fred Sanders, and John Frame, and references C.S. Lewis's statement, "I believe in Christianity as I believe the sun has risen, not only because I see it but by it I see everything else." These references are used to situate the argument within the broader Christian tradition and to address potential objections.

Faith and Reason: Illuminating the Path to Christ (Desiring God) explicitly references Jonathan Edwards, quoting his description of saving faith as a "sight of the Divine glory in the things [the gospel] exhibits," and his argument that the internal evidences of the gospel are necessary for a solid conviction, especially for the uneducated. The sermon also references Andrew Fuller and J. Gresham Machen on the nature of faith as a "receiving grace," and B.B. Warfield on the integration of prayer and study. The preacher mentions R.C. Sproul and John Calvin in relation to the nature of saving faith, and uses their categories to discuss the elements of faith (notitia, assensus, fiducia). These references are used to support the argument that saving faith is grounded in the spiritual sight of Christ's glory, not in rational argument alone.

God: The Ultimate Treasure of the Gospel (Desiring God) draws extensively on Jonathan Edwards, quoting his definition of saving faith as "satisfaction in all that God is for us in Christ," and his assertion that "God is glorified not only by his glory being seen but by its being rejoiced in." The preacher also references C.S. Lewis (the Grand Canyon analogy and the "weight of glory"), and critiques the prosperity gospel by referencing contemporary American church culture.

Finding Satisfaction in God's Glory and Truth (Desiring God) explicitly references Jonathan Edwards, quoting his argument that the "internal evidences" of the gospel—namely, the sight of its Divine glory—are the only sufficient ground for a solid conviction, especially for the uneducated. The preacher also references C.S. Lewis ("The Weight of Glory") on the nature of desire and satisfaction in God, and mentions Dan Fuller as a formative influence.

Finding Joy in the Glory of Christ (Desiring God) explicitly references Matt Chandler’s "rose story" as an illustration of the nature of the gospel and worship, contrasting it with the preacher’s own "rose story" to highlight the difference between duty and delight in glorifying God. The sermon also alludes to the phrase "Christian hedonist," a term popularized by John Piper himself, to encapsulate the idea that God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him.

Glorifying God: The Purpose of Our Redemption (Desiring God) explicitly references C.S. Lewis, particularly his book "Reflections on the Psalms." Lewis is quoted as saying that praise is the consummation of joy, and that God seeking our praise is not megalomania but love, because our joy is incomplete until it is expressed in praise. This insight is used to defend the idea that God's pursuit of his own glory is the most loving thing he can do for us.

" Delighting in the Divine Glory of Scripture," "God’s Peculiar Glory by John Piper," and "Experiencing God's Glory: A Spiritual Perspective" (all SermonIndex.net) explicitly reference Jonathan Edwards, particularly his argument that the "internal evidence" of the gospel's divine glory is the ground for conviction, and quote his writings on how even the illiterate can have a well-grounded faith by a "sight of its glory." They also reference the Westminster Catechism's statement that the Scriptures "manifest themselves to be the Word of God by the scope of the whole, which is to give all glory to God," using this as historical support for the self-authenticating nature of Scripture's glory.

2 Corinthians 4:4-6 Illustrations from Secular Sources:

Faith and Compassion: The Story of Bartimaeus (Bridgewater Open Bible Church) uses the story of a two-year-old girl named Yu Yu in China, who was struck by a van and ignored by passersby, as a modern parable of compassion and blindness. The preacher draws a parallel between the physical blindness and social neglect experienced by Yu Yu and the spiritual blindness and indifference described in 2 Corinthians 4:4-6. The sermon also references the experience of beggars in various cultures (India, Africa, Canada) to illustrate the social dynamics of blindness and need.

Faith and Compassion: The Story of Bartimaeus (Bridgewater Open Bible Church) further uses the example of children persistently calling for their parents ("Mommy! Daddy!"), likening it to Bartimaeus’s persistent cries for mercy and the need for spiritual persistence in seeking God’s light. The preacher also references the experience of seeing beggars in New York City, Russia, and Guatemala, and the impact of witnessing someone else’s compassion as a catalyst for one’s own response.

Faith and Compassion: The Story of Bartimaeus (Bridgewater Open Bible Church) includes a quote from Helen Keller ("better to be blind and see with your heart than to have two good eyes and see nothing") and the story of Fanny Crosby, the blind hymn writer, who expressed gratitude for her blindness because the first face she would see would be that of her Savior. These illustrations are used to reinforce the sermon’s analogy between physical and spiritual sight.

Seeing the Glory: Our Purpose in Christ (Desiring God) uses several detailed secular analogies to illustrate the human longing for glory and transcendence. The preacher describes the experience of standing at the edge of the Grand Canyon, traveling to the Rockies or the Alps, and buying picture books to recapture the sense of awe and smallness. He also discusses why people attend professional sports games, concerts, and art museums—to admire greatness and experience moments of self-forgetfulness. These experiences are presented as "parables" of the deeper longing to see and savor God's glory, and as points of contact for evangelism.

The Self-Authenticating Glory of Scripture (Desiring God) uses the analogy of viewing a Rembrandt painting covered by a black sheet of paper, with only pinholes allowing glimpses of the artwork. The illustration is used to explain how spiritual sight works: some parts of Scripture yield their glory quickly, while others require broader exposure to see the full picture. The preacher also references the experience of looking at the stars and seeing the glory of God in nature, and discusses how different cultures may see different facets of biblical glory (e.g., the importance of genealogies in some societies). These analogies are used to make the theological argument accessible and to address the process of coming to certainty about Scripture.

God: The Ultimate Treasure of the Gospel (Desiring God) uses several detailed secular illustrations to illuminate 2 Corinthians 4:4-6. The preacher describes the experience of standing at the Grand Canyon or looking at a coffee table book of mountains and rivers, arguing that people are drawn to these experiences not to increase self-esteem but to feel small before something magnificent—an analogy for the soul's longing to see and savor God's glory. The sermon also references the comic strip "Arlo and Janice," where the characters reflect on how the best moments make them feel insignificant, and an advertisement for Nature Valley Trail Mix, which depicts two small figures atop a mountain with the tagline "You've never felt more alive, you've never felt more insignificant." These illustrations are used to argue that the human heart is wired to find joy in something greater than itself, and that the sight of God's glory in the gospel fulfills this longing.

Finding Satisfaction in God's Glory and Truth (Desiring God) uses the analogy of seeing the sun in the sky to explain the self-authenticating nature of God's glory in the gospel, arguing that just as one knows the sun is up by seeing it, so one knows the truth of the gospel by seeing its glory. The preacher also references the universal human experience of being moved by the grandeur of nature (e.g., the galaxies, the heavens) as an analogy for the spiritual sight of God's glory in the word. These secular experiences are used to make the concept of spiritual sight more accessible and to argue that the longing for glory is written on every human heart.

Finding Joy in the Glory of Christ (Desiring God) uses the vivid secular analogy of "taste buds on your soul’s tongue" and "licking the lollipop of the gospel" to illustrate the transformation that occurs in new birth, where spiritual taste is awakened to savor Christ’s glory. The preacher also tells a detailed personal story—his "rose story"—about bringing flowers to his wife on their anniversary. He contrasts two scenarios: one where he gives flowers out of duty, and another where he gives them out of delight in her, using this as a metaphor for the difference between mere religious obligation and true worship that springs from joy in God. This story is used to make the point that being satisfied in someone (or in God) is the highest way to honor them, and that joy in God is the ultimate aim of the gospel.

Living by the Spirit: Beyond Rules to Transformation (Desiring God) uses the example of Shakespearean plays and news reports about the coronavirus as analogies for the "letter" that kills. The sermon explains in detail that all written works—whether the plays of Shakespeare, scientific reports, or even theological treatises—are composed of letters that, apart from the Spirit's illumination, are deadening. The point is that even the most beautiful or important secular texts are lifeless unless the Spirit brings them into relationship with the ultimate reality of Christ's glory, making them prisms through which God's glory can shine.

Glorifying God: The Purpose of Our Redemption (Desiring God) references C.S. Lewis's observation from "Reflections on the Psalms" that people naturally praise what they enjoy, whether it be lovers praising each other, readers praising poets, or people praising weather, wines, dishes, actors, motors, horses, colleges, countries, historical figures, children, flowers, mountains, rare stamps, rare beetles, politicians, or scholars. This wide-ranging list from secular life is used to illustrate the universality of praise and to argue that God's pursuit of our praise is the consummation of our joy, not selfishness.

From Letter to Spirit: Embracing Life in Faith (SermonIndex.net) uses the analogy of "letters" in secular works—Shakespearean plays, news reports about coronavirus, and books about theology or current events—to illustrate that all written words, regardless of their source, are "deadly" apart from the Spirit's illumination. The sermon asserts that even the most beautiful or profound secular literature is lifeless unless the Spirit connects it to the ultimate reality of God's glory in Christ.

Experiencing God's Glory: A Spiritual Perspective and "God’s Peculiar Glory by John Piper" (both SermonIndex.net) use the example of Albert Einstein, who, despite seeing more "glory and majesty" in the cosmos than many preachers, did not see the true glory of God. This is used to illustrate the difference between physical and spiritual sight, and to warn preachers not to present a "tiny" God disconnected from the grandeur of creation. The analogy of a "three-point buzzer beater" in basketball is also used to distinguish between generic, fleeting human glory and the "peculiar glory" of Christ that saves and transforms.