Can you explain the meaning of 2 Corinthians 5:7?

2 Corinthians 5:7 is a profound and succinct verse that reads, "For we walk by faith, not by sight" (ESV). This verse encapsulates a fundamental principle of the Christian life, emphasizing the necessity of faith over reliance on physical senses and visible evidence. To fully grasp its meaning, we must delve into the context in which the Apostle Paul wrote these words and explore their theological implications.

Context of 2 Corinthians 5:7

The Apostle Paul wrote the Second Epistle to the Corinthians to address various issues within the Corinthian church, including misunderstandings about his ministry, the nature of Christian suffering, and the hope of eternal life. In the broader context of 2 Corinthians 5, Paul is discussing the Christian's heavenly dwelling and the promise of eternal life with God. He contrasts our current, earthly existence with the future, glorified state that believers will enjoy in God's presence.

Starting from verse 1, Paul speaks of the "earthly tent" (our physical bodies) being destroyed and the hope of an "eternal house in heaven" (2 Corinthians 5:1, NIV). He acknowledges the groaning and burden we experience in our current state, longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling (2 Corinthians 5:2-4). Paul reassures believers that God has given us the Holy Spirit as a guarantee of what is to come (2 Corinthians 5:5).

In verses 6-8, Paul expresses confidence and courage, despite being away from the Lord while in the body. It is within this context that he writes, "For we walk by faith, not by sight" (2 Corinthians 5:7). This statement serves as a guiding principle for how believers are to live in the present, in anticipation of the future fulfillment of God's promises.

The Nature of Faith

To understand what it means to "walk by faith," we must first define faith. Hebrews 11:1 provides a foundational description: "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen" (ESV). Faith involves trust and confidence in God and His promises, even when they are not immediately visible or tangible. It is believing in God's character, His Word, and His redemptive plan, despite the lack of physical evidence.

Faith is not blind optimism or wishful thinking; it is rooted in the reality of who God is and what He has revealed to us. The Bible is replete with examples of individuals who lived by faith, from Abraham, who trusted God's promise of a son despite his old age (Genesis 15:6), to Moses, who led the Israelites out of Egypt by faith in God's deliverance (Hebrews 11:24-29).

Walking by Faith

The metaphor of "walking" by faith implies a continuous, active journey. It suggests a daily, moment-by-moment reliance on God. Walking by faith involves several key aspects:

1. Trusting God's Promises: Believers are called to trust in God's promises, even when they are not yet fulfilled. This includes the promise of eternal life, the assurance of God's presence, and the hope of resurrection. Abraham's journey to an unknown land (Genesis 12:1-4) is a prime example of trusting God's promises without seeing the end result.

2. Obedience to God's Word: Walking by faith means obeying God's commands, even when they go against human logic or societal norms. Noah's obedience in building the ark (Genesis 6:22) despite the absence of rain is a testament to faith in action.

3. Perseverance in Trials: Faith is often tested through trials and suffering. James 1:2-4 encourages believers to consider trials as opportunities for growth, producing steadfastness and maturity. Paul himself endured numerous hardships (2 Corinthians 11:23-28) but remained steadfast in his faith.

4. Hope in the Unseen: Walking by faith involves fixing our eyes on the eternal, unseen realities rather than the temporary, visible world. Colossians 3:1-2 exhorts believers to set their minds on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.

Not by Sight

The phrase "not by sight" contrasts the way of faith with reliance on physical senses and visible evidence. Human nature tends to trust what is seen and tangible. However, the Christian life calls for a different approach. Several reasons underscore why believers should not rely solely on sight:

1. Limited Perception: Human sight and understanding are limited and fallible. We cannot see the full picture of God's plan or understand His ways completely (Isaiah 55:8-9). Relying on sight alone can lead to doubt and discouragement.

2. Temporal vs. Eternal: The visible world is temporary and subject to change, while the unseen realities of God's kingdom are eternal (2 Corinthians 4:18). Focusing on the temporal can lead to misplaced priorities and a shallow faith.

3. Spiritual Realities: Many aspects of the Christian faith, such as the presence of the Holy Spirit, the intercession of Christ, and the promise of heaven, are spiritual realities that cannot be seen with physical eyes. Faith allows believers to perceive and embrace these truths.

4. Dependence on God: Walking by faith fosters a deeper dependence on God. It requires humility and surrender, acknowledging that we are not in control and that God's wisdom surpasses our understanding (Proverbs 3:5-6).

The Practical Implications

Living by faith and not by sight has profound practical implications for daily Christian living. It affects how we make decisions, respond to challenges, and interact with others.

1. Decision-Making: Decisions should be guided by prayer, Scripture, and the leading of the Holy Spirit, rather than solely by visible circumstances or human reasoning. Seeking God's will and trusting His guidance, even when it seems counterintuitive, is a hallmark of walking by faith.

2. Facing Challenges: Trials and difficulties are inevitable, but faith provides the assurance that God is with us and will work all things for our good (Romans 8:28). This perspective enables believers to face challenges with courage and hope.

3. Relationships: Walking by faith influences how we relate to others. It calls for love, forgiveness, and grace, reflecting the character of Christ. Faith in God's transformative power encourages us to see others through His eyes and to trust Him for their growth and redemption.

4. Witness and Evangelism: A life of faith serves as a powerful testimony to others. When believers live out their faith authentically, it draws others to Christ. Sharing the gospel involves trusting the Holy Spirit to work in the hearts of those we witness to, even when immediate results are not visible.

Conclusion

2 Corinthians 5:7, "For we walk by faith, not by sight," is a call to a deeper, more profound way of living as followers of Christ. It challenges believers to trust in God's promises, obey His Word, persevere through trials, and fix their eyes on eternal realities. This verse encapsulates the essence of the Christian journey—a journey marked by faith in the unseen, reliance on God's character, and the hope of eternal life with Him.

As we navigate the complexities and uncertainties of life, may we be encouraged by Paul's words and strive to walk by faith, confident in the One who holds our future and sustains us each step of the way.