Apostle Paul, not losing heart, though some attacked his character and motives, continued to preach the gospel, the very ministry given him by the Lord. Jesus tells all his disciples that opposition is sure to come. Paul contrasted his methods to accomplish the mission given to him with those of his detractors. We can learn how to proceed with our missions.
Paul’s detractors used secret and shameful ways. They were deceptive, hiding their true motives. Their methods were to distort the word of God. (2a) They were like Oz behind the curtain in “The Wizard of Oz”.
Paul, however, did not do as they did, though before he became a believer, he was like them. When the Lord called him, he put those shameful ways behind him. Opposite to them, Paul presented God’s truth plainly and clearly. (2b) Those who heard him or read his letters knew in their conscience that what he said had no hidden agenda. They knew it to be true and of God. (2c)
Referring back to what he wrote in 3:13-15, like Moses’ veil, if anyone did not understand the gospel he preached, it was not his doing nor fault. Rather, it was because they did not believe. The veil covers their hearts. (3)
As the apostle wrote Timothy, “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15) And the writer of Hebrews, “For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12)
