What is the context?
Paul returns to the image of a veil. Where the gospel remains unseen, he describes unbelieving minds blinded by the god of this age. The light being obscured is the gospel of Christ’s glory, and Christ is the image of God.
The title god of this age is commonly understood as referring to Satan; see Wesley’s note on verse 4 and the USCCB note on verses 3–4. It does not make Satan equal to the Creator. Paul immediately turns to the God who brings light.
The workers proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord, not themselves. Their place is to serve the Corinthians for Jesus’ sake. The message and the messenger must not be confused.
God, who commanded light to shine out of darkness, has shone in their hearts to make His glory known in the face of Jesus Christ. Paul places the power to give that knowledge with God, while continuing to describe the message His servants openly proclaim.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Christians commonly understand the contrast as Satan’s blinding work and God’s giving of light through Christ, with the workers serving rather than taking Christ’s place. Wesley’s notes on verses 3–6 and the USCCB notes on verses 3–6 share those central points. This paragraph does not by itself set out every part of the different Christian accounts of how God’s grace and a person’s response relate.
Where does this fit in God's plan?
Paul explicitly reaches back to the creation of light in Genesis 1:1–5. The God whose word brought light into darkness is the one who makes Christ known within human hearts.
The connection presents the knowledge of Christ as God’s life-giving work, not simply a messenger’s persuasive achievement. It also links the glory seen in Christ with the Creator’s own glory. The light believers receive is meant to make Him known, rather than make the servant the center of attention.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.