Charles Ellicott Commentary 2 Corinthians 4:1

"Therefore seeing we have this ministry, even as we obtained mercy, we faint not:" — 2 Corinthians 4:1 (ASV)

Therefore, since we have this ministry.—The ministry referred to is that about which such great things have just been said: the ministry of the new covenant, of the Spirit, of righteousness, of glory (2 Corinthians 3:6; 2 Corinthians 3:8–9). Two thoughts rise up in the Apostle’s mind in immediate association with this:

1. His own utter unworthiness of it, which finds expression in as we have received mercy (Compare to 1 Timothy 1:12);
2. the manifold trials and difficulties amid which it had to be accomplished.

The very fact that he has been called to such a work is, however, a source of strength. He cannot lose heart or show cowardice in discharging it.