2 Corinthians 4:16-18 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.… I. THERE IS A DUALITY IN CHRISTIAN MANHOOD. The apostle was not only a great theologian, but also a great philosopher. He here speaks of an "outward" and an "inward" man, and speaks of them as distinct, though in this world they are wedded together. This outer man is part of us — is ours, but not us. I feel this body is mine, but it is not me. In the outward man there dwells an inward man, invisible to the eyes of sense; it loves, believes, hopes, etc., and accomplishes many acts which the outer man cannot do. Innumerable troubles, like an attacking army, were assailing Paul's "outward man," and at any moment it might be destroyed; but his "inward man" was calm and safe — as within the walls of a castle, and grew stronger and braver as the battle waxed hotter. II. THE GROWTH OR DECAY OF THIS DUAL MANHOOD IS NOT NECESSARILY CO-ORDINATE. A man may grow outwardly, and his possessions may enlarge, while his mental and moral powers may dwindle away, and vice-versa. The outward man, or casket, may decay, while the inward man, or jewel, is being polished day by day, and fitted for the Redeemer's crown. III. THESE FACTS PRESENT BLESSED HOPE AND ENCOURAGEMENT TO THE GOOD. (F. W. Brown.) Parallel Verses KJV: For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. |
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