Verse 17:
“For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison,”
Verse 18:
“as we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.”
1. What does “this light momentary affliction” refer to?
– The phrase “this light momentary affliction” refers to the various trials and tribulations faced by believers in their earthly lives. I’ll be honest, I would not have chosen the words “light” and “mometary”. I would have said heavy and never-ending. Having an eternal perspective does not come naturally to us. In fact, it is not normal or even human. To have the attitude that Paul is describing here is Divine. It truly is a gift of God. Patience and endurance are gifts of the Holy Spirit. If you want to see someone filled with the Spirit then see someone who goes through affliction with this attitude. These afflictions may include persecution, suffering, and hardships encountered for the sake of Christ and the gospel.
2. How are these afflictions described?
– Paul characterizes these afflictions as “light” and “momentary” in comparison to the eternal glory that awaits believers. While they may seem burdensome and overwhelming in the present moment, they are temporary and pale in comparison to the eternal blessings promised by God. We should pray that the Lord help us to see our future in His word. We are going somewhere very special and need to know that there is a crown of life awaiting for us to cast down at the saviors feet.
3. What is the purpose of these afflictions?
– These afflictions serve a redemptive purpose in preparing believers for “an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison.” They refine and strengthen the faith of believers, molding them into vessels fit for the glory of God in eternity. James adds further insight.
James 1:2-4 ESV[2] Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, [3] for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. [4] And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
Count it all joy? What? Really? Can we honestly say this is our response to affliction? We can only be grateful for the trials when our focus is on the purpose. The purpose? Perfection! To be like Jesus. Complete! Completely conformed to the image of Christ. When we understand that affliction purifies us we can be joyful. Even in the middle of hardship. What is a better testimony than that?
4. What does it mean to look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen?
– Believers are called to fix their gaze not on the temporal and transient things of this world, but on the eternal realities of God’s kingdom. This involves living with an eternal perspective, prioritizing spiritual values over earthly possessions and pursuits. This perspective is brought about by our focus. Are we looking uto Jesus?
Hebrews 12:1-2 ESV[1] Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, [2] looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
Notice in this passage that Jesus despised the shame, yet the everlasting joy of the finished work on the cross motivated Him to press on. This joy is deeply abiding. It is not being thrilled or gushing with happiness about affliction, but a deep seated acceptance that all is according to God’s plan.
5. How are the seen and the unseen contrasted?
– The things that are seen, such as wealth, power, and earthly success, are temporary and subject to decay. In contrast, the things that are unseen, including God’s promises, the hope of eternal life, and the spiritual realm, are eternal and enduring.
6. How does this passage connect with themes from the Old Testament?
– The theme of enduring affliction for the sake of future glory resonates throughout the Old Testament. Examples include:
- Job: Job, despite enduring immense suffering, remained faithful to God and was eventually rewarded with double what he had before (Job 42:10-17). Oh lest we forget;
- Job 19:25 ESV[25] For I know that my Redeemer lives, and at the last he will stand upon the earth.
- Joseph: Sold into slavery and unjustly imprisoned, Joseph remained faithful, and God ultimately exalted him to a position of authority (Genesis 50:20).
- The Israelites in Egypt: The Israelites endured slavery and oppression in Egypt but were delivered by God and brought into the promised land (Exodus 3:7-10).
Life Applications:
- Perseverance in Affliction: This passage encourages believers to persevere in the midst of trials, knowing that God is using their suffering to produce eternal glory.
- Eternal Perspective: It challenges believers to shift their focus from temporary earthly concerns to the eternal realities of God’s kingdom, finding hope and purpose in the midst of adversity.
- Faith in God’s Promises: By trusting in the unseen promises of God, believers can find strength and assurance in the midst of difficult circumstances, knowing that their present sufferings are temporary compared to the eternal blessings to come.
- Preparation for Glory: Understanding that our earthly struggles are preparing us for eternal glory empowers believers to endure hardships with courage and faith, knowing that our ultimate reward far surpasses our present troubles.
By fixing our gaze on the unseen realities of God’s kingdom and placing our trust in His promises, we can navigate the trials of life with hope and confidence. The examples of endurance and faithfulness from the Old Testament remind us that God is faithful to His people, and He rewards those who persevere in the midst of adversity.
Therefore, let us persevere in faith, keeping an eternal perspective and trusting in the sovereignty of God. May we be encouraged to endure our present sufferings with courage, knowing that they are preparing us for an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison. As we look forward to that glorious future, let us live each day with hope, joy, and anticipation of the eternal blessings that await us in Christ Jesus. B