7 for we walk by faith, not by sight.
Setting the Scene for 2 Corinthians 5:7
In 2 Corinthians chapter 5, the scene is set in a bustling marketplace in the ancient city of Corinth. The apostle Paul, along with his companions Timothy and Titus, have gathered a group of believers in a shaded area near the marketplace to teach them about the importance of living by faith and not by sight. The group is a mix of both Jews and Gentiles, reflecting the diverse community of believers in Corinth.
As Paul passionately speaks about the new life believers have in Christ and the reconciliation they have with God through Him, the sounds of merchants haggling and the aroma of spices and freshly baked bread fill the air. The believers listen intently, some nodding in agreement while others ask questions to deepen their understanding. The warm Mediterranean sun shines down on the group, creating a sense of peace and unity among them as they gather to learn and grow in their faith.
In this vibrant marketplace setting, Paul’s words resonate deeply with the believers, encouraging them to walk by faith and not by sight, trusting in the promises of God even when circumstances may seem uncertain. The scene captures the essence of early Christian gatherings, where believers came together to support and encourage one another in their faith journey, amidst the backdrop of daily life in the bustling city of Corinth.
What is 2 Corinthians 5:7 about?
This verse from 2 Corinthians 5:7 encourages us to live a life guided by faith rather than relying solely on what we can see or understand with our physical senses. It emphasizes the importance of trusting in something beyond the tangible and believing in the unseen. This notion challenges us to have faith in God, in His plan, and in His promises, even when circumstances may seem uncertain or when we can’t see a clear path ahead.
So, when the verse says, “For we walk by faith, not by sight,” it invites us to ponder: Do we have faith that provides guidance in times of doubt and difficulty? Are we willing to trust in something greater than ourselves, even when we can’t see the outcome? We choose to walk by faith, believing in the power of the unseen and relying on God’s wisdom and guidance in all aspects of our lives. This verse serves as a reminder to have faith in the journey, even when the destination is not yet visible.
Understanding what 2 Corinthians 5:7 really means
Let’s break down this verse into several key parts to delve into its profound meaning. First, we will explore the context in which this verse was written. Next, we will dissect the pivotal phrases and their significance. Following this, we will reference other biblical passages to deepen our understanding. Lastly, we will discuss the relevance of this verse in today’s world, complemented by an illustrative anecdote.
Context of the Verse:
Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians is rich with themes of faith, reconciliation, and new creation. Chapter 5, specifically, speaks to the transient nature of our earthly life and the eternal glory that awaits us. Paul is encouraging the believers in Corinth to live by faith, not merely by what they can see and experience in the physical world.
Key Phrases and Their Significance:
The phrase “we live by faith, not by sight” is central to understanding the Christian walk. “Live by faith” implies a daily, ongoing trust in God’s promises, even when they are not immediately visible. This contrasts with “by sight,” which signifies reliance on tangible, visible evidence. Paul is urging believers to prioritize spiritual realities over physical appearances.
Supporting Biblical References:
Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as “the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” This complements our verse by emphasizing that faith is inherently about trusting in what is not visible. Similarly, in Romans 8:24-25, Paul explains that hope that is seen is not hope at all, reinforcing the idea that true faith involves trust in the unseen. This verse challenges us to shift our perspective in our modern, fast-paced world, where empirical evidence and visible results are highly valued. It calls us to trust in God’s promises and His character, even when our current circumstances seem bleak or uncertain. This kind of faith can provide profound peace and direction. The farmer plants seeds in the soil. He waters them and cares for the ground, but for days, he sees no sign of growth. Despite this, he continues to nurture the soil, trusting that eventually, the seeds will sprout and yield a harvest. This farmer’s actions are a practical example of living by faith. He believes in the unseen potential within the seeds, much like how we are called to trust in the promises of God.
Engaging the Reader:
Have you ever faced a situation where the outcome seemed uncertain, and you had to rely on faith? How did that experience shape your relationship with God? Reflecting on such moments can help us appreciate the depth and necessity of living by faith. This verse invites us to embrace a paradigm shift—from relying solely on what we can see and control, to placing our trust in the steadfast promises of God. It’s a call to walk in faith, assured that, even when we cannot see the full picture, God is ever-present and faithful.
How can we live by faith and not by sight?
Living by faith and not by sight means trusting in God’s promises and guidance even when we may not fully understand or see the outcome. It requires believing in the unseen and relying on God’s faithfulness rather than being swayed by our circumstances or what is visible to us. This kind of faith involves stepping out in obedience and taking risks, knowing that God is in control and will work all things together for our good.
When we choose to live by faith, we are shifting our focus from the temporal and material aspects of life to the eternal and spiritual. It involves seeking God’s perspective and aligning our will with His, even when it goes against our natural inclinations or the norms of the world. We acknowledge His sovereignty and allow Him to lead us in paths that may not always make sense to our human understanding by placing our trust in God and walking by faith.
Living by faith requires a deep relationship with God, constant communication through prayer, and a willingness to surrender our desires and plans to Him. It means seeking His will above our own and being open to His leading even when it requires stepping into the unknown. We can experience His faithfulness in ways that surpass our expectations and bring glory to His name by cultivating a lifestyle of faith and reliance on God.
Application
Hey you! In this busy world, think of faith as your GPS when the roads are foggy. When work pressures pile up, or family dynamics get tough, lean into that divine guidance system. Trust that unseen hand steering you towards the right path. Ready to take that leap and trust your inner compass 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.