2 Corinthians 4:17 For this light momentary affliction is preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison,
The challenges we face in our physical existence are temporary. It is amazing that Paul can call affliction light and temporary. When we are in the midst of suffering, we may not always see an end in sight. We struggle and slog through the suffering and are tempted to think that this is the end of the world–at least to our world. “Light” here can also be interpreted as insignificant.
Our afflictions and sufferings are insignificant compared to our eternal outcome. Paul emphasizes this outcome by the repetition of the word “extraordinary” (hyperbole). The promise glory that we will experience is so much more than any struggles we may encounter in this lifetime. “Glory” is an important word in this letter and other letters of Paul. The goal of our life is to experience this glory (see 3:18). We have been created in the image of Christ, and our goal in this life is to allow the Holy Spirit to transform us from glory to glory back into this image. When Christ comes again, we will see him as he is. Our the challenges of this life will fade away. This present evil age with its decay and decadence will come to an end. The Hebrew word for “glory” (kabod) means weighty. The weight of glory is the awesomeness of God that causes all things to fall down in worship. “At the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father” (Philippians 2:10-11).
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