Death is at work in us, but life is at work in you

2 Corinthians 4:

7 But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 8 We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair;

Click to expand...

"We" referred to the people who were working with Paul, i.e., his associates.

9 persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. 10We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. 11For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that his life may also be revealed in our mortal body.

Click to expand...

Paul and his co-workers reflected the death and life of Jesus through trials and successes.

12 So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.

Click to expand...

Paul and his companions were continually subjected to trials, hardships, and even the imminent possibility of death as they carried out their mission. These difficulties were metaphorically "death working in us."

The phrase "life is at work in you" referred to the spiritual blessings, encouragement, and eternal hope that flowed to the recipients of the gospel because of the apostles' sacrifices.

It showed the interconnectedness of suffering and blessing in the Christian life. Paul and his co-workers willingly embraced hardship and danger to fulfill their calling, trusting that God would use their sacrifices to bring spiritual life to others. Their example teaches us that true ministry involves self-denial and reliance on God's power, resulting in abundant life for those who believe.