2 Corinthians 5:6-7 is about living by faith and not by sight, as Christians are called to trust in the unseen promises of God rather than relying solely on what is seen in the physical world.
6 So we are always of good courage. We know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord,
For we walk by faith, not by sight.
Setting the Scene for 2 Corinthians 5:6-7
In 2 Corinthians chapter 5, the apostle Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, addressing the concept of living by faith and not by sight. The scene unfolds in a bustling marketplace in Corinth, where a group of believers has gathered to discuss Paul’s teachings and reflect on their faith journey. Among them are Lydia, a wealthy merchant who first heard the gospel from Paul during his visit to Philippi, and Titus, a young convert who has been fervently sharing his newfound faith with others.
As the sun sets over the marketplace, casting a warm glow on the cobblestone streets, the group sits in a circle, their faces illuminated by the flickering light of torches. The aroma of spices and incense fills the air as they engage in a lively discussion about the challenges of living out their faith in a world that often seems at odds with their beliefs. Paul’s words resonate deeply with them as they grapple with the tension between the seen and the unseen, the temporal and the eternal.
Amidst the backdrop of merchants hawking their wares and travelers passing through the city gates, the believers find solace in their shared journey of faith. They are reminded by Paul’s words to walk confidently in their belief in Christ, trusting in the promises of God even when they cannot see the full extent of His plan. As the evening draws to a close, the group disperses, their hearts encouraged and their spirits lifted by the fellowship and the timeless truths they have shared.
What is 2 Corinthians 5:6-7 about?
This verse from 2 Corinthians 5:7 summarizes a fundamental aspect of the Christian faith – the importance of believing in what is unseen. It reminds us that our trust in God and His promises should not be dependent on physical evidence or immediate gratification. Instead, it speaks to the profound truth that faith is a powerful force that guides our lives, even when we cannot see the outcome or fully understand the path ahead. Challenges, uncertainties, and obstacles that we encounter as we journey through life may make us question our beliefs or lose hope. However, this verse encourages us to persevere and hold onto our faith, knowing that God is always present, even in the midst of darkness or doubt. It challenges us to rely on our spiritual convictions and trust in the unseen realities of God’s love, mercy, and plan for our lives.
So, as you navigate your own journey of faith, remember that living by faith and not by sight requires a deep trust in God’s wisdom and timing. It asks us to surrender control and embrace uncertainty, knowing that God’s plan is greater than anything we can imagine. Let this verse be a source of strength and courage as you walk in faith, trusting that God is with you every step of the way.
Understanding what 2 Corinthians 5:6-7 really means
The Apostle Paul’s letter to the Corinthians serves as a timeless guide for believers, addressing various issues and providing encouragement. In 2 Corinthians 5:6-7, Paul delves into the essence of faith and the Christian’s voyage through life. When Paul declares, “We are always confident,” he underscores the unwavering assurance that believers possess in their faith journey. This confidence is not based on visible circumstances but on the trust in God’s promises and His unchanging character.
As Paul mentions being “at home in the body,” he alludes to our current physical existence on earth. Despite dwelling in our earthly bodies, we are “away from the Lord,” signifying that our ultimate home is in His presence. The phrase “For we walk by faith, not by sight” encapsulates the essence of Christian living, emphasizing reliance on God’s guidance rather than tangible evidence. It challenges believers to trust in the unseen and to navigate life’s complexities with faith as their compass.
Hebrews 11:1 beautifully complements this notion by defining faith as the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things unseen. Similarly, Romans 8:24-25 reinforces the idea of hoping in the unseen with patience. John 20:29 echoes the sentiment, highlighting the blessedness of believing without physical proof. These passages collectively emphasize the significance of faith in the Christian walk, urging believers to anchor themselves in trust and hope in God’s promises.
In a world fixated on tangible proof and immediate results, these verses serve as a poignant reminder of the vital role faith plays in a believer’s life. They urge individuals to remain resolute and unwavering in their trust in God, especially during challenging and uncertain times. Just like the biblical figures who walked by faith, modern-day believers are called to emulate their steadfastness and reliance on God’s guidance.
Consider Sarah, a young woman facing a career crossroads. Despite the allure of a secure job, she chooses to follow her passion in a riskier venture, guided by her faith in God’s leading. Sarah’s decision to “walk by faith, not by sight” yields unexpected fulfillment and success, showcasing the transformative power of trusting in God’s plan. Her story mirrors the essence of Paul’s message – that faith, though unseen, paves the way for divine intervention and blessings beyond human comprehension.
In conclusion, 2 Corinthians 5:6-7 encapsulates the essence of Christian faith – a journey marked by unwavering trust in God’s promises and guidance. As believers navigate life’s uncertainties, these verses serve as a beacon of hope, reminding us to walk confidently in faith, anchored in the assurance of God’s faithfulness throughout history. Just as Paul encouraged the Corinthians, may we too embrace a life guided by faith, not by sight, trusting in the unseen hand that leads us on our spiritual pilgrimage.
How can we live by faith, not by sight?
Living by faith and not by sight means trusting in God’s promises and following His guidance even when we cannot physically see the outcome or understand the way forward. It is anchored in the belief that God’s ways are higher than ours, and His plans are for our good, even when circumstances may seem uncertain or difficult. We demonstrate our conviction that God is in control and that His promises are true, regardless of what we can see with our physical eyes, by choosing to rely on faith.
Living by faith requires a deep reliance on God and a willingness to surrender our need for control and understanding. It involves embracing a mindset of trust and obedience, even in the face of uncertainty or challenges. We are called to believe in the unseen, to trust in God’s character, and to rely on His strength to lead us through every circumstance by walking in faith. This faith-driven perspective enables us to navigate life with hope, peace, and confidence, knowing that God is with us every step of the way, guiding us according to His perfect will.
Application
In our busy lives, it’s easy to rely only on what we see, like checking off tasks at work or keeping up with family demands. But just like navigating a complex project or parenting challenges, sometimes we need to trust in something bigger. Are you prepared to walk by faith, even when the path isn’t clear, and trust that there’s a greater plan at work?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.