(2) The weakness of Paul’s person (4:7-16a)

Paul concedes that despite the extraordinarily powerful message he proclaims, he does so as a vulnerable human being. The OT is the origin of this use of the metaphor jars of clay with reference to human weakness (Job 10:9; Isa 29:16; 30:14; 45:9; 64:8; Jer 18:6; 22:28; Lam 4:2; see Talbert, 156). The contrast between the fragile container and its precious contents has a purpose. It is to show that this allsurpassing power is from God and not from us (4:7). The tribulations Paul lists in 4:8-10 demonstrate that despite the oppressive forces he faces, paradoxically God’s power sustains him (cf. 6:4-10; 11:23-29). Though threatened with death, his survival reveals in his person the resurrection life of Jesus, which in turn enables him to minister life to the Corinthians (4:10-12). Hardships reveal the Christlike character of his ministry.