2 Corinthians 4:2: But we have renounced the hidden things of shame, not walking in craftiness nor handling the word of God deceitfully, but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.
We are saved by the grace of God through faith in Christ Jesus. However, after we have been saved, that gospel must live in us. We have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty. Coming to Christ and trusting Him is more than an intellectual assent to the fact that Christ died on the Cross. It is placing our trust in Him and experiencing His regeneration. When Christ has saved us, we ought to be an example of the gospel. In other words, the man who preaches the gospel should be a holy man. Paul says that we have “renounced the hidden things of dishonesty.” We are not to walk in hypocrisy. We should not be unreal. Our behavior should not contradict that which we are preaching. It ought to be a conduct which meets the approval of the Lord Jesus Christ. We are not perfect, but we are to walk in a way that is well pleasing to Him. I pray, “O God, don’t let me preach unless I can have a clear conscience, and unless I am preaching in the power of the Spirit of God.” 1
Personal Application
- Read 2 Corinthians 1:12. What does it mean to live a life in simplicity and godly sincerity?
Godly Encouragement
- And my speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, –1 Corinthians 2:4
A Biblical Thought to Share with Others
To be godly is to be known for simplicity and sincerity. – TWEET IT
A Prayer to Consider
Lord, purify me to serve You with a clear conscience.
1. Hughes, R. K. (2006). 2 Corinthians: power in weakness. Wheaton, IL: Crossway Books.
