Made New: Jars of Clay

January 10th, 2026

In a world obsessed with self-improvement and fresh starts, God offers something deeper than a new version of ourselves—He offers daily renewal. In 2 Corinthians 4:7–18, Paul reminds us that God places great treasure in fragile people so His power, not ours, is on display. Our weakness does not disqualify us; it becomes the very place where God works, shapes, and strengthens us. As we fix our eyes on what is unseen and eternal, we discover that God is making us new day by day—even in the middle of hardship.



1 Corinthians 4:7-18

Sermon Outline
1. God works through our weakness, not around it.
2. Pain has a purpose
3. Faith Speaks Up
4.We don't live by what we see


Discussion Questions
  1. What does Paul mean by calling us “jars of clay”? Why do you think God chooses fragile containers?
  2. According to verses 7–9, what pressures does Paul face—and what does not happen as a result?
  3. How does Paul describe the contrast between what is seen and what is unseen in verses 16–18?
  4. Where do you currently feel weak, tired, or stretched?
  5. Why is it difficult to believe that God can work through our weakness instead of removing it?
  6. Which phrase best describes your season right now: “pressed,” “perplexed,” “struck down,” or “renewed”?
  7. Paul says, “I believed, and so I spoke.” What does faith-filled speech look like in your life right now?
  8. How can your weakness or current struggle become a testimony of God’s grace to others?
  9. What is one practical step you can take this week to fix your focus on what lasts?

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