2 Corinthians 4:1
Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;
2 Corinthians 4:1
Paul begins with “Therefore,” tying this verse to the unveiled gospel and the apostolic ministry described in the previous chapter. He says, “we faint not” because we have received this mercy. The ministry of the new covenant is grounded in mercy rather than merit; it’s sustained by God’s grace rather than human strength. The verse signals perseverance in ministry despite opposition, failure, or fatigue. It also reiterates the motivation of grace: the mercy received compels perseverance and faithfulness in declaring the gospel.
This verse foregrounds the grace-based basis of ministry. It rejects despair as a legitimate response to hardship and anchors endurance in God’s mercy. It also connects mercy to purpose—God’s mercy is the source of the ministry to which Christians are called. This grounds Christian vocation in divine initiative rather than human achievement.
Practically, this encourages perseverance in calling, whether in evangelism, teaching, or service. When discouraged, recall God’s mercy and rely on the Spirit for strength. In daily life, this could mean showing up with consistency—praying, studying, serving—even when results aren’t immediately visible. It also invites believers to extend mercy to others, recognizing that God’s mercy first came to us. A practical exercise: keep a mercy diary—note moments you experienced God’s mercy and moments you offered mercy to others—and let that fuel ongoing ministry.
Cross-References: Romans 12:9-21; 2 Thessalonians 3:13; Colossians 1:29; 1 Peter 4:11; Galatians 6:9