In 2 Corinthians, Paul explains why “we do not lose heart” (2 Corinthians 4:16), why we press on despite struggles and setbacks. We cultivate these motives in order to persist in effective evangelism. Here is a summary of motives taken from 2 Corinthians chapters 4 and 5:
Honor We consciously do our work “in the sight of God” (2 Corinthians 4:2 cf. 2 Corinthians 2:10, 17; 12:19). Yes, we are ambitious. We want results. We want progress. Why? Because “we make it our aim to please Him” (2 Corinthians 5:9 cf. 1 Thessalonians 2:4). We seek to honor God and see Him honored by others. “… As grace extends to more and more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God” (2 Corinthians 4:15).
Fear If we believe in Heaven, we also believe in Hell, for Jesus revealed the reality of each. We evangelize because judgement is coming.
For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil. Therefore, knowing the fear of the Lord, we persuade others (2 Corinthians 5:10-11).
Love The “others” of 2 Corinthians 5:11 are those outside Christ. They face eternal judgement unprepared. We share the Savior’s deep and urgent concern for them.
For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that One has died for all, therefore all have died; and He died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for Him who for their sake died and was raised (2 Corinthians 5:14-15).
Christ has “died for all.” No person is left out (John 1:2; 3:16; Mark 16:15; 2 Corinthians 5:19; 1 John 2:2). Christ’s love took Him to the cross. That same love now compels us. Since He suffered so much “for their sake,” we should do our part to evangelize effectively.