The gospel can be clouded to the extent someone does not see the value and purpose of it in theirr life. Those to whom the gospel is clouded are the perishing. verse 3b-4: ‘it is veiled to those who are perishing in whose case the god of this world has blinded the eyes of the unbelieving so that they might not see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ who is the image of God.”
Some would say this doesn’t apply to me because we aren’t the perishing, we have the truth and follow the truth. That may not necessarily be true.
Read 2 Cor. 3:11-18. It is one of the most misunderstood passages in the New Testament. Paul is contrasting the Old Covenant with the New. Go back to verse 9 for further clarification. When Moses came down from talking with God his face shown to the point it scared the people and he had to cover it. The people didn’t realize what was right in front of them – the glory of God. He goes on to say whenever Moses was read a veil lies over their hearts. But whenever someone comes to the Lord, the veil is lifted.
Be aware of wearing a veil that could obstruct you view of the glory of God. We cannot allow the god of this world to blind our hearts.
Rev. 3:17-18. The church of Laodecia, the lukewarm church. They think they are doing well but Jesus tells them they are wretched, naked, poor and blind. Some of us can lose our way.
Paul warns them in chapter 11 of 2 Corinthians that they could be led astray for the simplicity and devotion to Christ. Who’s influencing them? False teachers. Satan, who can transform himself into an angel of light – he can look like goodness to try to deceive.
The mind:
1. Can be controlled by you. It’s a choice we make. It must submit to the will of God. What you allow to dominate your thoughts is up to you.
2. Can be influenced
3. It can be taught
4. It can also change. It can get off track and be brought back to the right course.
5. It can be attentive, obedient and faithful to God.
6 things to be sure we have eyes that see, 6 important mindsets:
1. I want truth regardless of what it means
2. I desire only His glory, am not self seeking
3. Christ-likeness is my goal
4. I will approve of what God approves
5. I want to embrace those whom He embraces
6. I am merely His servant, His instrument
Vessels, 2 Cor. 4:7. Discipleship is an ongoing pursuit. God can gloriously use such vessels as us. There is no higher way to employ yourself than as such as vessel.
Sermon by Tony Mauck
