2 Corinthians 4–6

Walk by Faith

Have you ever wondered why life does not always turn out the way you want it to, even when you are doing what is right? Paul recognized that bad things happen to good people and that life is sometimes unfair. He testified that Jesus Christ has the power to comfort us in our trials and can make all things right in the eternities. We learn in 2 Corinthians 4–6 how important it is to walk by faith in the Savior’s power.

Understanding the Scriptures

2 Corinthians 4

Renounced (v. 2)Refused

The god of this world (v. 4)Satan

Earthen vessels (v. 7)Our mortal bodies

Redound (v. 15)Overflow

2 Corinthians 4:17—Great Eternal Blessings Come to Those Who Endure Affliction

Elder Angel Abrea, a member of the Seventy, testified: “I know that even in times of affliction and tribulation, if we patiently endure in faith, blessings of comfort and hope will come into our lives, and we will be able to partake of that ‘incomprehensible joy’ of which Ammon and his brothers received (see Alma 27:17–18; 28:8). Therefore, in the words of Joseph Smith, ‘Stand fast, ye Saints of God, hold on a little while longer, and the storm of life will be past, and you will be rewarded by that God whose servants you are, and who will duly appreciate all your toils and afflictions for Christ’s sake and the Gospel’s’ (Teachings of the Prophet Joseph Smith, p. 185)” (in Conference Report, Apr. 1992, 37; or Ensign, May 1992, 27).

2 Corinthians 5

Earthly house of this tabernacle (v. 1)Our mortal bodies

Building of God (v. 1)Glorified, resurrected body

Clothed upon (vv. 2–4)Resurrected

Earnest (v. 5)Pledge, guarantee

Sober (v. 13)Serious minded

Constraineth (v. 14)Compels, motivates

2 Corinthians 5:18–20—Reconciliation

The Book of Mormon prophet Jacob taught: “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, reconcile yourselves to the will of God, and not to the will of the devil and the flesh; and remember, after ye are reconciled unto God, that it is only in and through the grace of God that ye are saved” (2 Nephi 10:24).

2 Corinthians 6

Succoured (v. 2)Comforted, helped

Stripes (v. 5)Beatings with a whip

Love unfeigned (v. 6)Genuine love

Straightened (v. 12)Restricted, distressed

Bowels (v. 12)Affections

Belial (v. 15)Wickedness (see Bible Dictionary, “Belial,” p. 620)

Infidel (v. 15)Unbeliever

2 Corinthians 6:14–17—Be Wise in Your Choice of Friends

“Everyone needs good friends. Your circle of friends will greatly influence your thinking and behavior, just as you will theirs. When you share common values with your friends, you can strengthen and encourage each other. If some of your friends are shy and do not feel included, be particularly sensitive to their feelings and go out of your way to pull them into the influence of your strong circle of good friends. Together you can maintain a high standard of gospel living” (For the Strength of Youth [pamphlet, 1990], 9).

Studying the Scriptures

Do activity A or B as you study 2 Corinthians 4–6.

1. Trials in Perspective

   Life can be unpleasant and difficult. Often we are disappointed and frustrated that things do not turn out the way we hope. During these times the Spirit witnesses that the difficulties of this life are nothing when compared with the promises associated with eternal life. As you read 2 Corinthians 4:8–18 list the phrases Paul used to testify that mortal trials are nothing compared to eternal glory.

2. “Be Ye Not Unequally Yoked Together with Unbelievers”

   Read 2 Corinthians 6:11–18 and explain what you think each of the following statements means, including an example of what you could do to follow it:

   1. “Be ye not unequally yoked with unbelievers.” (A yoke is a wooden harness that ties oxen together when they are working.)

   2. “Come out from among them, and be ye separate.”

   3. “Touch not the unclean thing.”