2 Corinthians 5:6-8 is about how in our earthly bodies, we are separated from the Lord and living by faith, but when we are absent from the body, we will be present with Him in spirit.
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.
Yes, we are of good courage, and we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord.
Setting the Scene for 2 Corinthians 5:6-8
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 the importance of their faith in Christ. Among them are Lydia, a wealthy merchant who was converted by Paul’s preaching, and Titus, a young man eager to learn more about the Christian faith.
As they stand amidst the colorful stalls and the aroma of spices and incense fills the air, Paul’s words resonate with the group. He speaks passionately about the eternal perspective that believers should have, emphasizing that while they may be currently living in their earthly bodies, their true home is in heaven with the Lord. The believers listen intently, their hearts stirred by the promise of being with Christ one day, even if it means being away from their physical bodies.
In this lively marketplace setting, surrounded by the sights and sounds of everyday life, the believers are reminded of the transient nature of this world and the enduring hope they have in Christ. As they ponder Paul’s words, they are encouraged to walk by faith, knowing that one day they will be absent from the body but present with the Lord.
What is 2 Corinthians 5:6-8 about?
This verse speaks to the core belief of many Christians that our faith guides us in life, even when we cannot physically see or fully comprehend God’s plans. It emphasizes the importance of trusting in the unseen and having faith in God’s love and guidance. When we face challenges or uncertainties, we are encouraged to rely on our faith and not solely on what we can see with our physical eyes.
Have you ever faced a situation where you had to trust in something that you couldn’t see or fully understand? This verse reminds us that our spiritual beliefs can provide us with strength and guidance, even when things seem unclear. Walking by faith reminds us that our journey in life is more than what meets the eye; it is about our trust and connection with the divine and our longing to be with the Lord. This verse encourages us to focus on our faith, rather than solely relying on what is visible or tangible in the physical world.
Understanding what 2 Corinthians 5:6-8 really means
The Apostle Paul’s letter to the Corinthians addresses various issues within the church and defends his apostleship. In 2 Corinthians 5:6-8, Paul delves into the Christian’s unwavering confidence and hope amidst the transient nature of life and the promise of eternal life with Christ. The phrase “We are always confident” underscores the steadfast faith believers possess, even in the midst of life’s uncertainties. It serves as a reminder that our trust in God’s promises should surpass any doubts or fears that may arise.
Paul’s statement, “While we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord,” highlights the temporary separation from the full presence of God that we experience in our earthly existence. This notion prompts us to reflect on the deeper reality that our true home lies in eternal communion with the Lord. The declaration, “We walk by faith, not by sight,” emphasizes the essence of Christian living – relying on the unseen promises of God rather than tangible, visible circumstances. It challenges us to trust in God’s guidance even when the path ahead seems unclear.
The longing expressed in “We would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord” echoes the deep desire for eternal fellowship with God, surpassing any temporal experiences on earth. This sentiment resonates with Paul’s similar expression in Philippians 1:21-23, where he considers departing to be with Christ as “far better.” The concept of faith as defined in Hebrews 11:1 reinforces the idea of walking by faith, not by sight, anchoring our trust in the unseen promises of God.
In today’s world, filled with uncertainty and turmoil, these verses offer profound comfort and hope to believers. They remind us that our ultimate home is not in this world but in the presence of God, urging us to live with an eternal perspective. The call to “walk by faith, not by sight” is particularly relevant in a visually driven culture where superficial appearances often overshadow deeper truths. Just as a person in a fog relies on a trusted guide for direction, Christians navigate life’s uncertainties by trusting in God’s guidance, even when the path ahead seems obscured.
Ultimately, these verses challenge us to live confidently and faithfully, knowing that our ultimate destination is to be with the Lord. They encourage us to shift our focus from temporary circumstances to eternal realities, fostering a profound sense of peace and purpose in our daily lives. May we embrace the assurance of our faith, walk confidently in God’s promises, and eagerly anticipate the eternal home prepared for us in the presence of our Lord.
How can we walk by faith, not by sight?
Walking by faith, not by sight, means trusting in the unseen and believing in the promises of God even when circumstances may not seem favorable. It requires stepping out in confidence and obedience, even when we can’t see the full picture or understand the outcome. This kind of faith allows us to rely on God’s guidance and wisdom, knowing that He is always with us, even when we can’t physically see Him at work.
When we walk by faith, we are choosing to prioritize spiritual truths over temporary situations, trusting that God’s ways are higher than our own. It involves having confidence in God’s faithfulness and leaning on His promises, rather than being swayed by what we can see or perceive with our physical senses. We can walk with assurance and strength, even in the midst of uncertainties and challenges, by fixing our eyes on Jesus and believing in His power and goodness.
Application
You navigate through the hustle of work and the demands of family life every day, but remember, true fulfillment comes from faith, not just what you can see. Imagine it as trusting the GPS when you can’t see the road ahead. Commit to living by faith today; lean on His promises just like you’d lean on those you love. How will you act on this faith in your busy world today?
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.