The cost of love - O le tau o le alofa

Scripture Focus: 2 Korinito 4:10-14

always carrying in the body the putting to death of the Lord Jesus, that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who live are always delivered to death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus may be revealed in our mortal flesh. So then death works in us, but life in you. But having the same spirit of faith, according to that which is written, “I believed, and therefore I spoke.” We also believe, and therefore also we speak; knowing that he who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus, and will present us with you.
- 2 Corinthians 4:10-14 (WEB)

Study:

In 2 Corinthians 4:10-14, the Apostle Paul reveals the profound reality behind Christian living: that in our weakness and suffering, the life and power of Jesus Christ are made manifest. Paul speaks of “always carrying in the body the putting to death of the Lord Jesus,” emphasizing the cost of love and faithfulness. The physical trials and hardships believers endure mirror Jesus’ own sufferings, and through these, His resurrection life is revealed in us. This paradox of death and life highlights the spiritual truth that although believers may face persecution and hardship, it serves a greater purpose — to glorify God and manifest His eternal life. Our hope rests not in present circumstances but in the power of Christ’s resurrection and His promise to raise us with Him.

Application:

This passage reminds us that genuine love for Christ is costly and involves sacrifice. Today, we may not always face physical persecution, but many believers endure spiritual, emotional, or social trials for their faith. Like Paul, we must hold steadfast in our calling to reflect Christ’s life in us, even through difficulty. The endurance of hardship with faith and hope points others beyond us to Jesus. Moreover, the assurance that God will raise us with Christ sustains us in adversity, enabling us to speak boldly about our faith. Loving Jesus means embracing our share in His death so that His life may be evident through us in this world.

Reflection Questions:

• In what ways have you experienced the 'putting to death' of Jesus in your own life?
• How does knowing that Jesus’ life is revealed through your hardships affect your perspective on suffering?
• What does it mean to you to have “the same spirit of faith” as Paul?
• How can you encourage others to see hope in Christ amidst their difficulties?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, help me embrace the cost of love and the sacrifice it requires. In my weaknesses and trials, reveal Your life through me. Strengthen my faith so that I may boldly proclaim Your resurrection power. Raise me up each day to live for You and share Your hope with others. Amen.

Tags: Christian faith, suffering for Christ, resurrection power, 2 Corinthians 4, enduring hardship, the cost of love, Jesus is Lord, faith and perseverance, hope in Christ