But having the same spirit of faith, according to what is written, "I believed, therefore I spoke," we also believe, therefore we also speak, knowing that He who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus and will present us with you. For all things are for your sakes, so that the grace which is spreading to more and more people may cause the giving of thanks to abound to the glory of God.
2 Corinthians 4:13-15
Paul's desire for fruitfulness did not mean that he would compromise the gospel message, but instead he would remain true to his convictions and preach what he new to be true. With that, he declared that he had the same spirit or attitude of faith—he believed in the same things—as the psalmist who wrote, I believed, therefore I spoke (Psalm 116:10).
That was Paul's response to the critics in regards to his bold preaching—an unwavering faith that compelled him to preach (See Romans 1:15; 1 Corinthians 9:16). It was impossible for him to believe the gospel truth but not long to proclaim it. True belief impels strong, consistent, unwavering testimony to the truth and does not seek the comfort of prestige and popularity.
As Martin Luther defiantly declared:
Unless I can be instructed and convinced with evidence from the Holy Scriptures or with open, clear, and distinct grounds and reasoning—and my conscience is captive to the Word of God—then I cannot and will not recant, because it is neither safe nor wise to act against conscience. Here I stand. I can do no other. God help me! Amen.¹
Because the gospel provides the most glorious and important reality—the hope of resurrection for all who believe—Paul was bold and fearless in preaching it. Those who genuinely believe the truth cannot help but speak that truth. Paul willingly risked his life not only because of his own hope of heaven, but also for those who would hear and believe.
Clearly Paul's goal was never his own comfort, reputation, popularity, or ultimately the salvation of others. But instead, the final goal of Paul's selfless and sacrificial service was that more voices would be added to praise and worship to God.
God's astounding plan is to use common clay pots to carry the priceless treasure of the gospel to needy sinners. As they humbly and faithfully service Him, His power flows through them to others. The result is that more and more people will worship and glorify God, saying, To Him who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb, be blessing and honor and glory and dominion forever and ever (Revelation 5:13).
[1] James M. Kittelson, Luther the Reformer (Minneapolis: Augsburg, 1986) 161
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