John Calvin Commentary 2 Corinthians 4:3

"And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled in them that perish:" — 2 Corinthians 4:3 (ASV)

But if our gospel is hid—it might have been an easy thing to slander what he had said about the clarity of his preaching, because he had many adversaries. He repels that slander with stern authority, for he threatens all who do not acknowledge the power of his gospel, and warns them that this is a sign of reprobation and ruin.

“Should anyone affirm that he does not perceive that manifestation of Christ of which I boast, he clearly shows himself, by this very sign, to be a reprobate, for my sincerity in the work of instructing is clearly and distinctly perceived by all who have eyes. Those, therefore, from whom it is hidden, must be blind, and lacking all rational understanding.”

The point is this—that the blindness of unbelievers does not diminish the clarity of his gospel; for the sun is not less resplendent, though the blind do not perceive its light.

But someone will say that this applies equally to the law, for in itself it is a lamp to guide our feet, (Psalms 119:105), enlightens the eyes, (Psalms 19:8), etc., and is hidden only from those who perish.

I answer that, when Christ is included in the law, the sun shines forth through the midst of the clouds, so that people have light enough for their use; but when Christ is separated from it, there is nothing left but darkness, or a false appearance of light, that dazzles people’s eyes instead of helping them.

It is, however, a sign of great confidence that he ventures to regard as reprobates all who reject his doctrine. It is fitting, however, that all who would be regarded as ministers of God’s word should be endowed with similar confidence, so that with fearless confidence they may unhesitatingly summon all the adversaries of their doctrine to the judgment-seat of God, that they may bring from there a sure condemnation.