Keswick Evennigs - 2 Corinthians - 3

I was really looking forward to hearing Derek Tidball preach on Monday evening, as I've read some of his work over a number of years. I wasn't disappointed as Derek was greatly used of the Lord to open his word.

Derek was speaking on 2 Cor 4:1-6, and the contrast between authentic and inauthentic ministries.

1) the contrast between mercy and merit, verse 1.
The mercy of God is the foundation for Paul's ministry, not his merit, and this needs to be true for all authentic Christian ministry.
2) the contrast between truth and spin, verse 2.
This is about the style of ministry. Spin breeds a mistrustful society - a hermeneutic of suspicion.
Authentic ministry is a setting forth of the truth plainly - and you need confidence in the gospel and in the word of God for that.
Truth may not be successful or popular, but our God is a God of truth.
3) the contrast between speaking of Christ and self, verses 5-6.
In the social network, facebook, twitter, blogging (!!) culture there is great self-confidence, we all imagine there are lots of people who want to read all our various thoughts.
The Jesus we are to speak of is Lord, he is a crucified Saviour, he is the creative Word, he is the glorious image of God.
4) the contrast between light and darkness, verses 4-6.
There are blind minds and darkened lives, and only a powerful work of God can bring the light of his glory.
Illuminated hearts will lead to transformed lives.

I found this helpful first time round, and once again preparing this post, and I hope you will find it helpful also.
Derek's address can be purchased either on cd or for download from Essential Christian. Other addresses from all three Keswick weeks are also available.