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Introduction to 2 Corinthians

Part 1: General Introduction

Outline of the Book of 2 Corinthians

  1. Paul thanks God for the Corinthian Christians (1:1-11)
  2. Paul explains his conduct and his ministry (1:12-7:16)
  3. Paul speaks about contributing money for the Jerusalem church (8:1-9:15)
  4. Paul defends his authority as an apostle (10:1-13:10)
  5. Paul gives final greetings and encouragement (13:11-14)

Who wrote the Book of 2 Corinthians?

Paul was the author. He was from the city of Tarsus. He had been known as Saul in his early life. Before becoming a Christian, Paul was a Pharisee. He persecuted Christians. After he became a Christian, he traveled several times throughout the Roman Empire telling people about Jesus.

Paul started the church in Corinth. He was staying in the city of Ephesus when he wrote this letter.

What is the Book of 2 Corinthians about?

In 2 Corinthians, Paul continued to write about the conflicts among the Christians in the city of Corinth. It is clear in this letter that the Corinthians had obeyed his previous instructions to them. In 2 Corinthians, Paul encouraged them to live in a way that would please God.

Paul also wrote to assure them that Jesus Christ sent him as an apostle to preach the Gospel. Paul wanted them to understand this, because a group of Jewish Christians opposed what he was doing. They claimed Paul was not sent by God and he was teaching a false message. This group of Jewish Christians wanted Gentile Christians to obey the law of Moses.

How should the title of this book be translated?

Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, “Second Corinthians.” Or they may choose a clearer title, such as “Pauls Second Letter to the Church in Corinth.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts

What was the city of Corinth like?

Corinth was a major city located in ancient Greece. Because it was near the Mediterranean Sea, many travelers and traders came to buy and sell goods there. This resulted in the city having people from many different cultures. The city was famous for having people who lived in immoral ways. The people worshipped Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. As part of the ceremonies honoring Aphrodite, her worshipers had sexual intercourse with temple prostitutes.

What did Paul mean by “false apostles” (11:13)?

These were Jewish Christians. They taught that Gentile Christians had to obey the law of Moses in order to follow Christ. Christian leaders had met in Jerusalem and decided on the matter (See: Acts 15). However, it is clear that there were still some groups that disagreed with what the leaders in Jerusalem decided.

Part 3: Important Translation Issues

Singular and plural “you”

In this book, the word “I” refers to Paul. Also, the word “you” is almost always plural and refers to the believers in Corinth. There are two exceptions to this: 6:2 and 12:9. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-you]])

How are the ideas of “holy” and “sanctify” represented in 2 Corinthians in the ULT?

The scriptures use such words to indicate any one of various ideas. For this reason, it is often difficult for translators to represent them well in their versions. In translating into English, the ULT uses the following principles:

  • Sometimes the meaning in a passage implies moral holiness. Especially important for understanding the gospel is the fact that God considers Christians to be sinless because they are united to Jesus Christ. Another related fact is that God is perfect and faultless. A third fact is that Christians are to conduct themselves in a blameless, faultless manner in life. In these cases, the ULT uses “holy,” “holy God,” “holy ones,” or “holy people.”

  • The meaning in most passages in 2 Corinthians is a simple reference to Christians without implying any particular role filled by them. In these cases, the ULT uses “believer” or “believers.” (See: 1:1; 8:4; 9:1, 12; 13:13)

  • Sometimes the meaning in the passage implies the idea of someone or something set apart for God alone. In these cases, the ULT uses “set apart,” “dedicated to,” “reserved for,” or “sanctified.”

The UST will often be helpful as translators think about how to represent these ideas in their own versions.

What did Paul mean by expressions like “in Christ” and “in the Lord”?

This kind of expression occurs in 1:19, 20; 2:12, 17; 3:14; 5:17, 19, 21; 10:17; 12:2, 19; and 13:4. Paul meant to express the idea of a very close union with Christ and the believers. At the same time, he often intended other meanings as well. See, for example, “A door was opened for me in the Lord,” (2:12) where Paul specifically meant that a door was opened for Paul by the Lord.

Please see the introduction to the Book of Romans for more details about this kind of expression.

What does it mean to be a “new creation” in Christ (5:17)?

Pauls message was that God makes Christians part of a “new world” when a person believes in Christ. God gives a new world of holiness, peace, and joy. In this new world, believers have a new nature that has been given them by the Holy Spirit. Translators should try to express this idea.

What are the major issues in the text of the Book of 2 Corinthians?

  • “and in your love for us” (8:7). Many versions, including the ULT and UST, read this way. However, many other versions read, “and in our love for you.” There is strong evidence that each reading is original. Translators should probably follow the reading preferred by other versions in their region.

(See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-textvariants]])

31:introtsh30

2 Corinthians 01 General Notes

Structure and formatting

The first paragraph reflects a common way to begin a letter in the ancient Near East.

Special Concepts

Pauls integrity

People were criticizing Paul and saying he was not sincere. He refutes them by explaining his motives for what he was doing.

Comfort

Comfort is a major theme of this chapter. The Holy Spirit comforts Christians. The Corinthians probably were afflicted and needed to be comforted.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Rhetorical question

Paul uses two rhetorical questions to defend himself against a charge of not being sincere. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

We

Paul uses the pronoun “we”. This likely represents at least Timothy and himself. It may also include other people.

Guarantee

Paul says the Holy Spirit is the guarantee, which means pledge or down-payment, of a Christians eternal life. Christians are securely saved. But they will not experience all of Gods given promises until after they die. The Holy Spirit is a personal guarantee that this will happen. This idea comes from a business term. A person gives some valuable item to another person as a “guarantee” that they will repay money. (See: [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/eternity]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/save]])

41:1epd20

After Pauls greeting to the church in Corinth, he writes about suffering and comfort through Jesus Christ. Timothy is with him as well. The word “you” throughout this letter refers to the people of the church in Corinth and to the rest of the Christians in that area. Possibly Timothy writes on parchment paper the words that Paul says.

51:1mel3Παῦλος & τῇ ἐκκλησίᾳ τοῦ Θεοῦ τῇ οὔσῃ ἐν Κορίνθῳ1

Your language may have a particular way of introducing the author of a letter and its intended audience. Alternate translation: “I, Paul … wrote this letter to you, the church of God that is in Corinth”

61:1f59uΤιμόθεος ὁ ἀδελφὸς1

This indicates that both Paul and the Corinthians knew Timothy and considered him to be their spiritual brother.

71:1mhg5rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesἈχαΐᾳ1

This is the name of a Roman province in the southern part of modern-day Greece. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

81:2f6k1χάρις ὑμῖν καὶ εἰρήνη1

This is a common greeting that Paul uses in his letters.

91:3px2qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveεὐλογητὸς ὁ Θεὸς καὶ Πατὴρ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “May we always praise the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

101:3k7dlὁ Θεὸς καὶ Πατὴρ1

“God, who is the Father”

111:3pg4arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismὁ Πατὴρ τῶν οἰκτιρμῶν καὶ Θεὸς πάσης παρακλήσεως1

These two phrases express the same idea in two different ways. Both phrases refer to God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

121:3blv4ὁ Πατὴρ τῶν οἰκτιρμῶν καὶ Θεὸς πάσης παρακλήσεως1

Possible meanings are (1) that the words “mercies” and “all comfort” describe the character of “Father” and “God” or (2) that the words “Father” and “God” refer to one who is the source of “mercies” and “all comfort.”

131:4n2lcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveπαρακαλῶν ἡμᾶς ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ θλίψει ἡμῶν1

Here “us” and “our” include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

141:5nn5arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὅτι καθὼς περισσεύει τὰ παθήματα τοῦ Χριστοῦ εἰς ἡμᾶς1

Paul speaks of Christs sufferings as if they were objects that could increase in number. Alternate translation: “For just as Christ suffered greatly for our sake” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

151:5i254τὰ παθήματα τοῦ Χριστοῦ1

Possible meanings are (1) that this refers to the suffering that Paul and Timothy experience because they preach the message about Christ or (2) that this refers to the suffering that Christ experienced on their behalf.

161:5tg9wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorπερισσεύει & ἡ παράκλησις ἡμῶν1

Paul speaks of comfort as if it were an object that could increase in size. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

171:6y9birc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveεἴτε δὲ θλιβόμεθα1

Here the word “we” refers to Paul and Timothy, but not to the Corinthians. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “But if people afflict us” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

181:6wyj4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveεἴτε παρακαλούμεθα1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “if God comforts us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

191:6cfq7τῆς ὑμῶν παρακλήσεως, τῆς ἐνεργουμένης1

“You experience effective comfort”

201:8jqn8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesοὐ & θέλομεν ὑμᾶς ἀγνοεῖν1

This can be stated in positive terms. Alternate translation: “we want you to know” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

211:8pr8arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὅτι καθ’ ὑπερβολὴν ὑπὲρ δύναμιν ἐβαρήθημεν1

Paul and Timothy refer to their emotions of despair being like a heavy weight they have to carry. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

221:8gu5brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὑπερβολὴν & ἐβαρήθημεν1

The word “crushed” refers to the feeling of despair. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The troubles we experienced completely crushed us” or “We were in complete despair” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

231:9lks3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorαὐτοὶ ἐν ἑαυτοῖς τὸ ἀπόκριμα τοῦ θανάτου ἐσχήκαμεν1

Paul and Timothy are comparing their feeling of despair to that of someone condemned to die. Alternate translation: “we were in despair like someone who is condemned to die” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

241:9i7uprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisἀλλ’ ἐπὶ τῷ Θεῷ1

The words “put our trust” are left out of this phrase. Alternate translation: “but instead, to put our trust in God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

251:9bu2yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomτῷ ἐγείροντι τοὺς νεκρούς1

Here to raise is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again. Alternate translation: “who causes the dead to live again” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

261:10x4khrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorθανάτου1

Paul compares his feeling of despair as a result of the troubles that they experienced to a deadly peril or terrible danger. Alternate translation: “despair” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

271:10mwn9ἔτι ῥύσεται1

“he will continue to rescue us”

281:11q17dσυνυπουργούντων καὶ ὑμῶν ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν1

“God will rescue us from danger as you, the people of the church of Corinth, also help us”

291:11k1flrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτὸ εἰς ἡμᾶς χάρισμα1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the gracious favor which God has given to us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

301:12kqv3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

In these verses Paul uses the words “we,” “our,” “ourselves,” and “us” to refer to himself and Timothy and possibly others who served with them. These words do not include the people he was writing to. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

311:12r9p8ἡ γὰρ καύχησις ἡμῶν αὕτη ἐστίν1

The word “proud” here is used in the positive sense of feeling great satisfaction and joy in something.

321:12c7murc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationτὸ μαρτύριον τῆς συνειδήσεως ἡμῶν1

Paul speaks of not being guilty as if his conscience were a person that could speak. Alternate translation: “We know by our conscience” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

331:12c1bdrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyοὐκ ἐν σοφίᾳ σαρκικῇ, ἀλλ’ ἐν χάριτι Θεοῦ1

Here “fleshly” represents human. Alternate translation: “We have not relied on human wisdom but on the grace of God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

341:13h21jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegativesοὐ γὰρ ἄλλα γράφομεν ὑμῖν, ἀλλ’ ἢ ἃ ἀναγινώσκετε ἢ καὶ ἐπιγινώσκετε1

This can be stated in positive terms. Alternate translation: “You can read and understand everything we write to you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

351:14ma5mκαύχημα ὑμῶν1

The word “boasting” here is used in the positive sense of feeling great satisfaction and joy in something.

361:15nhq80

Paul wrote at least 3 letters to the Corinthians. Only 2 letters to Corinth are recorded in the Bible.

371:15k1u90

Paul explains his sincere expectation with pure motives to come see the believers in Corinth after his first letter.

381:15n5exταύτῃ τῇ πεποιθήσει1

The word “this” refers to Pauls previous comments about the Corinthians.

391:15y432δευτέραν χάριν σχῆτε1

“you might benefit from me visiting you twice”

401:16mp6uὑφ’ ὑμῶν προπεμφθῆναι εἰς τὴν Ἰουδαίαν1

“assist me on my way to Judea”

411:17zms7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionμήτι ἄρα τῇ ἐλαφρίᾳ ἐχρησάμην?1

Paul uses this question to emphasize he was sure about his decision to visit the Corinthians. The expected answer to the question is no. Alternate translation: “I was not hesitating.” or “I was confident in my decision.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

421:17chy9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionἢ ἃ βουλεύομαι, κατὰ σάρκα βουλεύομαι, ἵνα ᾖ παρ’ ἐμοὶ τὸ ναὶ, ναὶ, καὶ τὸ οὒ, οὔ?1

Paul uses this question to emphasize that his plans to visit the Corinthians were sincere. Alternate translation: “I do not plan things according to human standards … at the same time” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

431:17y41zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἢ ἃ βουλεύομαι, κατὰ σάρκα βουλεύομαι, ἵνα ᾖ παρ’ ἐμοὶ τὸ ναὶ, ναὶ, καὶ τὸ οὒ, οὔ?1

This means that Paul did not say both that he would visit and that he would not visit at the same time. The words “yes” and “no” are repeated for emphasis. Alternate translation: “I do not plan things … so that I say Yes, I will certainly visit and No, I will definitely not visit at the same time!” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

441:19z4herc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitὁ τοῦ Θεοῦ γὰρ Υἱὸς, Ἰησοῦς Χριστός & οὐκ ἐγένετο ναὶ καὶ οὒ, ἀλλὰ ναὶ ἐν αὐτῷ γέγονεν.1

Jesus says “Yes” concerning the promises of God, which means that he guarantees that they are true. Alternate translation: “For the Son of God … does not say Yes and No concerning Gods promises. Instead, he always says Yes.’” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

451:19hd2trc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciplesὁ τοῦ Θεοῦ & Υἱὸς1

This is an important title for Jesus that describes his relationship to God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])

461:20h2xcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitὅσαι & ἐπαγγελίαι Θεοῦ, ἐν αὐτῷ τὸ ναί1

This means that Jesus guarantees all of Gods promises. Alternate translation: “all the promises of God are guaranteed in Jesus Christ” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

471:20h4uvἐν αὐτῷ τὸ ναί & δι’ αὐτοῦ & δι’ ἡμῶν1

The word “him” refers to Jesus Christ.

481:21d3s3ὁ δὲ βεβαιῶν ἡμᾶς σὺν ὑμῖν εἰς Χριστὸν καὶ χρίσας ἡμᾶς Θεός1

Possible meanings are (1) “God who confirms our relationship with each other because we are in Christ” or (2) “God who confirms both our and your relationship with Christ.”

491:21tjc6χρίσας ἡμᾶς1

Possible meanings are (1) “he sent us to preach the gospel” or (2) “he chose us to be his people.”

501:22z43lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὁ καὶ σφραγισάμενος ἡμᾶς1

Paul speaks of God showing that we belong to him as if God had put a mark on us as a sign that we belong to him. Alternate translation: “he has put his mark of ownership on us” or “he has shown that we belong to him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

511:22xe98rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyδοὺς τὸν ἀρραβῶνα τοῦ Πνεύματος ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ἡμῶν1

Here the word “hearts” refers to the innermost part of a person. Alternate translation: “gave us the Spirit to live within each of us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

521:22jcv7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτὸν ἀρραβῶνα τοῦ Πνεύματος1

The Spirit is spoken of as if he was a partial downpayment toward eternal life. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

531:23j8lcἐγὼ δὲ μάρτυρα τὸν Θεὸν ἐπικαλοῦμαι ἐπὶ τὴν ἐμὴν ψυχήν1

The phrase “bear witness” refers to a person telling what they have seen or heard in order to settle an argument. Alternate translation: “I ask God to show what I say is true”

541:23j15tὅτι φειδόμενος ὑμῶν1

“so that I might not cause you more suffering”

551:24cyu4συνεργοί ἐσμεν τῆς χαρᾶς ὑμῶν1

“we are working with you so that you may have joy”

561:24cih8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomτῇ & πίστει ἑστήκατε1

The word “stand” can refer to something that does not change. Alternate translation: “remain firm in your faith” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

572:introhy3h0

2 Corinthians 02 General Notes

Special Concepts

Harsh writing

In this chapter, Paul refers to a letter he previously wrote to the Corinthians. That letter had a harsh and corrective tone. Paul probably wrote it after the letter known as First Corinthians and before this letter. He implies that the church had to rebuke an erring member. Paul is now encouraging them to be gracious to that person. (See: [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/grace]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Aroma

A sweet aroma is a pleasing smell. Scripture often describes things that are pleasing to God as having a pleasing aroma.

582:1wh9c0

Because of his great love for them, Paul makes it clear that his rebuke in his first letter to them (the rebuke of their acceptance of the sin of immorality) caused him pain as well as pain to the church people in Corinth and the immoral man.

592:1x9s5ἔκρινα γὰρ ἐμαυτῷ1

“I made the decision”

602:1ij73ἐν λύπῃ1

“in circumstances that would cause you pain”

612:2nb6xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionεἰ γὰρ ἐγὼ λυπῶ ὑμᾶς, καὶ τίς ὁ εὐφραίνων με, εἰ μὴ ὁ λυπούμενος ἐξ ἐμοῦ?1

Paul uses this rhetorical question to emphasize that neither he nor they would benefit if his coming to them would cause them pain. Alternate translation: “If I caused you pain, the only ones who could cheer me up would be the very ones whom I had hurt” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

622:2x2vrrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὁ λυπούμενος ἐξ ἐμοῦ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the very one whom I had hurt” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

632:3kxu2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἔγραψα τοῦτο αὐτὸ1

This refers to another letter that Paul had written to the Corinthian Christians that no longer exists. Alternate translation: “I wrote as I did in my previous letter” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

642:3v87irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveμὴ & λύπην σχῶ ἀφ’ ὧν ἔδει με χαίρειν1

Paul is speaking about the behavior of certain Corinthian believers who caused him emotional pain. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “those who should have made me rejoice might not hurt me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

652:3i5r6ἡ ἐμὴ χαρὰ πάντων ὑμῶν ἐστιν1

“what gives me joy is what gives you joy, too”

662:4uch7ἐκ γὰρ πολλῆς θλίψεως1

Here the word “affliction” refers to emotional pain.

672:4vs7mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyσυνοχῆς καρδίας1

Here the word “heart” refers to the location of the emotions. Alternate translation: “with extreme sorrow” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

682:4d5vfδιὰ πολλῶν δακρύων1

“with much crying”

692:6iy4rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἱκανὸν τῷ τοιούτῳ ἡ ἐπιτιμία αὕτη, ἡ ὑπὸ τῶν πλειόνων1

This can be stated in active form. The word “punishment” can be translated using a verb. Alternate translation: “The way that the majority has punished that person is enough” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

702:6a7c4ἱκανὸν1

“is sufficient”

712:7vpx1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveμή & τῇ περισσοτέρᾳ λύπῃ, καταποθῇ1

This means to have a strong emotional response of too much sorrow. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “too much sorrow does not overwhelm him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

722:8r9160

Paul encourages the church in Corinth to show love and to forgive the person they have punished. He writes that he, also, has forgiven him.

732:8yi2zκυρῶσαι εἰς αὐτὸν ἀγάπην1

This means that they are to confirm their love for this man in the presence of all of the believers.

742:9xw5trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitεἰς πάντα ὑπήκοοί ἐστε1

Possible meanings are (1) “you are obedient to God in everything” or (2) “you are obedient in everything that I have taught you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

752:10lzp6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveδι’ ὑμᾶς1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “I have forgiven it for your sake” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

762:10cbm6δι’ ὑμᾶς1

Possible meanings are (1) “forgiven out of my love for you” or (2) “forgiven for your benefit.”

772:11m46trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesοὐ γὰρ αὐτοῦ τὰ νοήματα ἀγνοοῦμεν1

Paul uses a negative expression to emphasize the opposite. Alternate translation: “For we know his plans well” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

782:12l6vd0

Paul encourages the believers in Corinth by telling them of the opportunities he has had to preach the gospel in Troas and Macedonia.

792:12a1tirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorεἰς τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τοῦ Χριστοῦ, καὶ θύρας μοι ἀνεῳγμένης ἐν Κυρίῳ1

Paul speaks of his opportunity to preach the gospel as if it were a door through which he was allowed to walk. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The Lord opened a door to me … to preach the gospel” or “The Lord gave me the opportunity … to preach the gospel” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

802:13rjy9οὐκ ἔσχηκα ἄνεσιν τῷ πνεύματί μου1

“My mind was troubled” or “I was worried”

812:13xd5hΤίτον τὸν ἀδελφόν μου1

Paul speaks of Titus as his spiritual brother.

822:13wq6jἀλλὰ ἀποταξάμενος αὐτοῖς1

“So I left the people of Troas”

832:14gpd2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτῷ & Θεῷ & τῷ πάντοτε θριαμβεύοντι ἡμᾶς ἐν τῷ Χριστῷ1

Paul speaks of God as if he were a victorious general leading a victory parade and of himself and his coworkers as those who take part in that parade. Possible meanings are (1) “God, who in Christ always causes us to share in his triumph” or (2) “God, who in Christ always leads us in triumph as those over whom he as gained victory” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

842:14l1nrrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτὴν ὀσμὴν τῆς γνώσεως αὐτοῦ, φανεροῦντι δι’ ἡμῶν ἐν παντὶ τόπῳ1

Paul speaks of the knowledge of Christ as if it were incense that has a pleasing smell. Alternate translation: “He causes the knowledge of Christ to spread to everyone who hears us, just as the sweet smell of burning incense spreads to everyone near it” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

852:14eq21φανεροῦντι & ἐν παντὶ τόπῳ1

“he spreads … everywhere we go”

862:15x6nnrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorΧριστοῦ εὐωδία ἐσμὲν τῷ Θεῷ1

Paul speaks of his ministry as if it were a burnt offering that someone offers to God. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

872:15b1k1Χριστοῦ εὐωδία ἐσμὲν τῷ Θεῷ1

Possible meanings are (1) “the sweet aroma which is the knowledge of Christ” or (2) “the sweet aroma that Christ offers.”

882:15itc8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτοῖς σῳζομένοις1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “those whom God has saved” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

892:16dwk6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὀσμὴ1

“the knowledge of Christ is an aroma.” This refers back to 2 Corinthians 2:14, where Paul speaks of the knowledge of Christ as if it were incense that has a pleasing smell. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

902:16ud2urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletὀσμὴ ἐκ θανάτου εἰς θάνατον1

Possible meanings are (1) that the word “death” is repeated for emphasis and the phrase means “an aroma that causes death” or (2) “an aroma of death that causes people to die” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

912:16v2n3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveοἷς1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the ones whom God is saving” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

922:16cdr3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletὀσμὴ ἐκ ζωῆς εἰς ζωήν1

Possible meanings are (1) that the word “life” is repeated for emphasis and the phrase means “an aroma that gives life” or (2) “an aroma of life that gives people live” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

932:16be6xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionπρὸς ταῦτα τίς ἱκανός?1

Paul uses this question to emphasize that no one is worthy to do the ministry that God has called them to do. Alternate translation: “No one is worthy of these things” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

942:17a5sarc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyκαπηλεύοντες τὸν λόγον τοῦ Θεοῦ1

“Word” here is a metonym for “message.” Alternate translation: “who sell Gods message” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

952:17x86yεἰλικρινείας1

“pure motives”

962:17u2zbἐν Χριστῷ λαλοῦμεν1

“we speak as people who are joined to Christ” or “we speak with the authority of Christ”

972:17q4dcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisκατέναντι Θεοῦ1

Paul and his coworkers preach the gospel with the awareness that God is watching them. Alternate translation: “we speak in the presence of God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

983:introf7rh0

2 Corinthians 03 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Paul continues his defense. Paul views the Corinthian Christians as the proof of his work.

Special concepts in this chapter

Law of Moses

Paul alludes to God giving the Ten Commandments on stone tablets. This represents the law of Moses. The law was good because it came from God. But God punished the Israelites because they disobeyed it. This chapter may be difficult for translators to understand if the Old Testament has not yet been translated. (See: [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/reveal]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Metaphors

Paul uses many metaphors used in this chapter to explain complex spiritual truths. It is unclear whether this makes Pauls teachings easier or more difficult to understand. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“This is a covenant not of the letter but of the Spirit.”

Paul contrasts the old and new covenants. The new covenant is not a system of rules and regulations. Here “Spirit” probably refers to the Holy Spirit. It may also refer to the new covenant being “spiritual” in nature. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/spirit]])

993:1m1k80

Paul reminds them that he is not boasting as he tells them about what he has done through Christ.

1003:1um8xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionἀρχόμεθα πάλιν ἑαυτοὺς συνιστάνειν?1

Paul uses this question to emphasize that they are not bragging about themselves. Alternate translation: “We are not beginning to praise ourselves again” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1013:1y8ycrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionἢ μὴ χρῄζομεν, ὥς τινες, συστατικῶν ἐπιστολῶν πρὸς ὑμᾶς ἢ ἐξ ὑμῶν?1

Paul says this to express that the Corinthians already know about Paul and Timothys good reputation. The question prompts a negative answer. Alternate translation: “We certainly do not need letters of recommendation to you or from you, like some people do” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1023:1ad1uσυστατικῶν ἐπιστολῶν1

This is a letter that a person writes to introduce and give their approval of someone else.

1033:2ty59rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἡ ἐπιστολὴ ἡμῶν ὑμεῖς ἐστε1

Paul speaks of the Corinthians as if they are a letter of recommendation. That they have become believers serves to validate Pauls ministry to others. Alternate translation: “You yourselves are like our letter of recommendation” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1043:2v2e7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐνγεγραμμένη ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ἡμῶν1

Here the word “hearts” refers to their thoughts and emotions. Possible meanings are (1) Paul and his coworkers are sure about the Corinthians being their letter of recommendation or (2) Paul and his coworkers care very deeply for the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1053:2bu1urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐνγεγραμμένη ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ἡμῶν1

This can be stated in active form with “Christ” as the implied subject. Alternate translation: “which Christ has written on our hearts” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1063:2dr5krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveγινωσκομένη καὶ ἀναγινωσκομένη ὑπὸ πάντων ἀνθρώπων1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that all people can know and read” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1073:3s717rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐστὲ ἐπιστολὴ Χριστοῦ1

Paul clarifies that Christ is the one who has written the letter. Alternate translation: “you are a letter that Christ has written” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1083:3wrk4διακονηθεῖσα ὑφ’ ἡμῶν1

“brought by us”

1093:3q96qἐνγεγραμμένη οὐ μέλανι & ἐν πλαξὶν καρδίαις σαρκίναις1

Paul clarifies that the Corinthians are like a spiritual letter, not like a letter that humans write with physical objects.

1103:3qt5grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐνγεγραμμένη οὐ μέλανι, ἀλλὰ Πνεύματι Θεοῦ ζῶντος1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “It is not a letter that people wrote with ink but a letter that the Spirit of the living God wrote” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

1113:3t5ahrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveοὐκ ἐν πλαξὶν λιθίναις, ἀλλ’ ἐν πλαξὶν καρδίαις σαρκίναις1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “It is not a letter that people engraved on stone tablets but a letter that the Spirit of the living God wrote on tablets of human hearts” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

1123:3u959rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorπλαξὶν καρδίαις σαρκίναις1

Paul speaks of their hearts as if they are flat pieces of stone or clay upon which people engraved letters. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1133:4z7qxπεποίθησιν δὲ τοιαύτην1

This refers to what Paul has just said. His confidence comes from knowing that the Corinthians are the validation of his ministry before God.

1143:5qye9ἀφ’ ἑαυτῶν ἱκανοί1

“qualified in ourselves” or “sufficient in ourselves”

1153:5e5e7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitλογίσασθαί τι ὡς ἐξ ἑαυτῶν1

Here the word “anything” refers to anything pertaining to Pauls apostolic ministry. Alternate translation: “to claim that anything we have done in ministry comes from our own efforts” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1163:5wi1tἡ ἱκανότης ἡμῶν ἐκ τοῦ Θεοῦ1

“God gives us our sufficiency”

1173:6dp6irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheκαινῆς διαθήκης, οὐ γράμματος1

Here the word “letter” means letters of the alphabet and refers to words that people write down. The phrase alludes to the Old Testament law. Alternate translation: “a covenant not based on commands that men have written” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1183:6tc4urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisἀλλὰ Πνεύματος1

The Holy Spirit is the one who establishes Gods covenant with people. Alternate translation: “but a covenant based on what the Spirit does” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

1193:6q4atrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationτὸ & γράμμα ἀποκτέννει1

Paul speaks of the Old Testament law as a person who kills. Following that law leads to spiritual death. Alternate translation: “the written law leads to death” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1203:7lyf70

Paul contrasts the fading glory of the old covenant with the superiority and freedom of the new covenant. He contrasts the veil of Moses with the clarity of present revelation. The time of Moses was a less clear picture of what is now revealed.

1213:7ut6rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ironyεἰ δὲ ἡ διακονία τοῦ θανάτου & ἐγενήθη ἐν δόξῃ, ὥστε1

Paul emphasizes that although the law leads to death, it was still very glorious. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])

1223:7du65rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἡ διακονία τοῦ θανάτου1

“the ministry of death.” This refers to the Old Testament law that God gave through Moses. Alternate translation: “the ministry that causes death because it is based on the law” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1233:7j1hprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐν γράμμασιν ἐντετυπωμένη λίθοις1

“carved into stone with letters.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that God carved into stone with letters” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1243:7r5p5ἐν δόξῃ, ὥστε1

“in so much glory”

1253:7y11cδιὰ1

“They could not look because”

1263:8xxn6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionπῶς οὐχὶ μᾶλλον ἡ διακονία τοῦ Πνεύματος ἔσται ἐν δόξῃ?1

Paul uses this question to emphasize that “the service that the Spirit does” must be more glorious than “the service that produced” because it leads to life. Alternate translation: “So the service that the Spirit does must be even more glorious” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

1273:8wq1vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἡ διακονία τοῦ Πνεύματος1

“the ministry of the Spirit.” This refers to the new covenant, of which Paul is a minister. Alternate translation: “the ministry that gives life because it is based on the Spirit” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1283:9k779rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτῇ διακονίᾳ τῆς κατακρίσεως1

“the ministry of condemnation.” This refers to the Old Testament law. Alternate translation: “the ministry that condemns people because it is based on the law” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1293:9if33rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamationsπολλῷ μᾶλλον περισσεύει ἡ διακονία τῆς δικαιοσύνης δόξῃ1

Here the word “how” marks this phrase as an exclamation, not as a question. Alternate translation: “then the service of righteousness must abound in so much more glory!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]])

1303:9e5zzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorπερισσεύει ἡ διακονία τῆς δικαιοσύνης δόξῃ.1

Paul speaks of “the service of righteousness” as if it were an object that could produce or multiply another object. He means that “the service of righteousness” is far more glorious than the law, which also had glory. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1313:9ufq6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἡ διακονία τῆς δικαιοσύνης1

“the ministry of righteousness.” This refers to the new covenant, of which Paul is a minister. Alternate translation: “the ministry that makes people righteous because it is based on the Spirit” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1323:10n4peκαὶ γὰρ οὐ δεδόξασται, τὸ δεδοξασμένον & εἵνεκεν τῆς ὑπερβαλλούσης δόξης1

The Old Testament law no longer appears glorious when compared with the new covenant, which is much more glorious.

1333:10t2dqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτὸ δεδοξασμένον1

This can be stated in active form. AT “the law which God once made glorious” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1343:10d7k5ἐν τούτῳ τῷ μέρει1

“in this way”

1353:11zwb2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτὸ καταργούμενον1

This refers to “the service of condemnation,” which Paul speaks of as if it were an object capable of disappearing. Alternate translation: “that which was becoming useless” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1363:12tnc1ἔχοντες οὖν τοιαύτην ἐλπίδα1

This refers to what Paul has just said. His hope comes from knowing that the new covenant has an eternal glory.

1373:12u5qaτοιαύτην ἐλπίδα1

“such confidence”

1383:13p5u2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτὸ τέλος τοῦ καταργουμένου1

The refers to the glory that shined on Moses face. Alternate translation: “the glory on Moses face as it faded away completely” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1393:14zvf5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἀλλὰ ἐπωρώθη τὰ νοήματα αὐτῶν1

“But their minds were hardened.” Paul speaks of the minds of the Israelite people as objects that could be closed or made hard. This expression means that they were unable to understand what they saw. Alternate translation: “But the Israelites could not understand what they saw” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1403:14zm7jἄχρι γὰρ τῆς σήμερον ἡμέρας1

to the time at which Paul was writing to the Corinthians

1413:14w68prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτὸ αὐτὸ κάλυμμα ἐπὶ τῇ ἀναγνώσει τῆς παλαιᾶς διαθήκης μένει1

Just as the Israelites could not see the glory on Moses face because he covered his face with a veil, there is a spiritual veil that prevents people from understanding when they read the old covenant. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1423:14gg2dἐπὶ τῇ ἀναγνώσει τῆς παλαιᾶς διαθήκης1

“when they hear someone read the old covenant”

1433:14gl8lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveμὴ ἀνακαλυπτόμενον, ὅτι ἐν Χριστῷ καταργεῖται1

Here both occurrences of the word “it” refer to “the same veil.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “No one removes the veil, because only in Christ does God remove it” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1443:15rjh5ἀλλ’ ἕως σήμερον1

This phrase refer to the time at which Paul was writing to the Corinthians.

1453:15t3dlrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἡνίκα ἂν ἀναγινώσκηται Μωϋσῆς1

Here the word “Moses” refers to the Old Testament law. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “whenever someone reads the Mosaic law” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1463:15gwp9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyκάλυμμα ἐπὶ τὴν καρδίαν αὐτῶν κεῖται1

Here the word “hearts” represents what people think, and the people being unable to understand the old covenant is spoken of as if they have a veil that covers their hearts the way a physical veil would cover their eyes. Alternate translation: “they are unable to understand what they are hearing” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1473:16k2drrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἡνίκα & ἐὰν ἐπιστρέψῃ πρὸς Κύριον1

Here “turns to” is a metaphor that means to become loyal to someone. Alternate translation: “when a person starts to worship the Lord” or “when a person starts to trust in the Lord” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1483:16w1y2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπεριαιρεῖται τὸ κάλυμμα1

God gives them the ability to understand. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God lifts the veil away” or “God gives them the ability to understand” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1493:18r6rxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveἡμεῖς δὲ πάντες1

Here the word “us” refers to all believers, including Paul and the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

1503:18l3xwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἀνακεκαλυμμένῳ προσώπῳ, τὴν δόξαν Κυρίου κατοπτριζόμενοι1

Unlike the Israelites who could not see Gods glory reflected on Moses face because he had covered it with a veil, there is nothing to prevent believers from seeing and understanding Gods glory. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1513:18rc9xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτὴν αὐτὴν εἰκόνα μεταμορφούμεθα1

The Spirit is changing believers to be glorious like him. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “The Lord is transforming us into his same glorious likeness” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1523:18bx5bἀπὸ δόξης εἰς δόξαν1

“from one amount of glory to another amount of glory.” This means that the Spirit is constantly increasing the glory of believers.

1533:18mw3vκαθάπερ ἀπὸ Κυρίου1

“just as this comes from the Lord”

1544:introrx1c0

2 Corinthians 04 General Notes

Structure and formatting

This chapter begins with the word “therefore.” This connects it to what the previous chapter teaches. How these chapters are divided may be confusing to the reader.

Special concepts in this chapter

Ministry

Paul ministers to people by telling them about Christ. He does not try to trick people into believing. If they do not understand the gospel, it is because the problem is ultimately spiritual. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/spirit]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Light and darkness

The Bible often speaks of unrighteous people, people who do not do what pleases God, as if they were walking around in darkness. It speaks of light as if it were what enables those sinful people to become righteous, to understand what they are doing wrong and begin to obey God. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]])

Life and death

Paul does not refer here to physical life and death. Life represents the new life a Christian has in Jesus. Death represents the old way of living before believing in Jesus. (See: [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/life]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/other/death]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Hope

Paul uses a repeated pattern in a purposeful way. He makes a statement. Then he denies a seemingly opposite or contradictory statement or gives an exception. Together these give the reader hope in difficult circumstances. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/hope]])

1554:1lyi40

Paul writes that he is honest in his ministry by preaching Christ, not praising himself. He shows the death and the life of Jesus in how he lives so that life can work in the Corinthian believers.

1564:1ix7nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveἔχοντες τὴν διακονίαν ταύτην1

Here the word “we” refers to Paul and his coworker, but not to the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

1574:1h1udrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitκαθὼς ἠλεήθημεν1

This phrase explains how Paul and his coworkers “have this ministry.” It is a gift that God has given to them through his mercy. Alternate translation: “because God has shown us mercy” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

1584:2yp4gἀπειπάμεθα τὰ κρυπτὰ τῆς αἰσχύνης1

This means that Paul and his coworkers refused to do “secret and shameful” things. It does not mean that they had done these things in the past.

1594:2z4c2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadysτὰ κρυπτὰ τῆς αἰσχύνης1

The word “secret” describes the things that people do secretly. Things that are shameful should cause people who do them to feel ashamed. Alternate translation: “the things that people do secretly because they cause shame” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])

1604:2ey75περιπατοῦντες ἐν πανουργίᾳ1

“live by deception”

1614:2gp3grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegativesμηδὲ δολοῦντες τὸν λόγον τοῦ Θεοῦ1

“Word of God” here is a metonym for the message from God. This phrase uses two negative thoughts to express a positive thought. Alternate translation: “we do not mishandle Gods message” or “we use the word of God correctly” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1624:2aj24συνιστάνοντες ἑαυτοὺς πρὸς πᾶσαν συνείδησιν ἀνθρώπων1

This means that they provide enough evidence for each person who hears them to decide whether they are right or wrong.

1634:2f6n1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ1

This refers to Gods presence. Gods understanding and approval of Pauls truthfulness is referred to as God being able to see them. Alternate translation: “before God” or “with God as witness” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1644:3mti5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorεἰ δὲ καὶ ἔστιν κεκαλυμμένον τὸ εὐαγγέλιον ἡμῶν, ἐν τοῖς ἀπολλυμένοις ἐστὶν κεκαλυμμένον1

This refers back to what Paul said starting in 2 Corinthians 3:14. There Paul explained that there is a spiritual veil that prevents people from understanding when they read the old covenant. In the same way, people are not able to understand the gospel. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1654:3hz2frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveεἰ & ἔστιν κεκαλυμμένον τὸ εὐαγγέλιον ἡμῶν & ἐστὶν κεκαλυμμένον1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “if a veil covers our gospel, that veil covers it” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1664:3e5yuτὸ εὐαγγέλιον ἡμῶν1

“the gospel that we preach”

1674:4r6pzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὁ θεὸς τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου ἐτύφλωσεν τὰ νοήματα τῶν ἀπίστων1

Paul speaks of their minds as if they had eyes, and their inability to understand as their minds being unable to see. Alternate translation: “the god of this world has prevented unbelievers from understanding” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1684:4tx9hὁ θεὸς τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου1

“the god who rules this world.” This phrase refers to Satan.

1694:4z4yprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorμὴ αὐγάσαι τὸν φωτισμὸν τοῦ εὐαγγελίου τῆς δόξης τοῦ Χριστοῦ1

As the Israelites could not see Gods glory that shined on Moses face because he covered it with a veil (2 Corinthians 3:13), unbelievers are not able to see Christs glory that shines in the gospel. This means that they are unable to understand “the gospel of the glory of Christ” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1704:4j1vzτὸν φωτισμὸν τοῦ εὐαγγελίου1

“the light that comes from the gospel”

1714:4rdj3τοῦ εὐαγγελίου τῆς δόξης τοῦ Χριστοῦ1

“the gospel about the Christs glory”

1724:5ddw1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisἀλλὰ Ἰησοῦν Χριστὸν Κύριον, ἑαυτοὺς δὲ δούλους ὑμῶν1

You can supply the verb for these phrases. Alternate translation: “but we proclaim Christ Jesus as Lord, and we proclaim ourselves as your servants” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

1734:5t8duδιὰ Ἰησοῦν1

“because of Jesus”

1744:6rw5zἐκ σκότους φῶς λάμψει1

With this sentence, Paul refers to God creating light, as described in the book of Genesis.

1754:6d5x7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὃς ἔλαμψεν & πρὸς φωτισμὸν τῆς γνώσεως τῆς δόξης τοῦ Θεοῦ1

Here the word “light” refers to the ability to understand. Just as God created light, he also creates understanding for believers. Alternate translation: “He has shone … to enable us to understand the glory of God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1764:6bj1jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ἡμῶν1

Here the word “hearts” refers to the mind and thoughts. Alternate translation: “in our minds” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

1774:6mpg9πρὸς φωτισμὸν τῆς γνώσεως τῆς δόξης τοῦ Θεοῦ1

“the light, which is the knowledge of the glory of God”

1784:6p736rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτῆς δόξης τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐν προσώπῳ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ1

“the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.” Just as Gods glory shone upon Moses face (2 Corinthians 3:7), it also shines upon Jesus face. This means that when Paul preaches the gospel, people are able to see and understand the message about Gods glory. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1794:7xe5irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveἔχομεν δὲ1

Here the word “we” refers to Paul and his coworkers, but not to the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

1804:7xx2crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἔχομεν & τὸν θησαυρὸν τοῦτον ἐν ὀστρακίνοις σκεύεσιν1

Paul speaks of the gospel as if it were a treasure and their bodies as if they were breakable jars made out of clay. This emphasizes that they are of little value compared to the worth of the gospel that they preach. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1814:8ga9zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐν παντὶ θλιβόμενοι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People afflict us in every way” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1824:9bz8mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveδιωκόμενοι, ἀλλ’ οὐκ ἐνκαταλειπόμενοι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People persecute us but God does not forsake us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1834:9uvq1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκαταβαλλόμενοι, ἀλλ’ οὐκ ἀπολλύμενοι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People strike us down but do not destroy us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1844:9z8npκαταβαλλόμενοι, ἀλλ’ οὐκ ἀπολλύμενοι1

“We are hurt badly”

1854:10zt4brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorπάντοτε τὴν νέκρωσιν τοῦ Ἰησοῦ ἐν τῷ σώματι περιφέροντες1

Paul speaks of his sufferings as if they are an experience of the death of Jesus. Alternate translation: “We are often in danger of dying, as Jesus died” or “We always suffer in such a way that we experience the death of Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1864:10l6f6ἡ ζωὴ τοῦ Ἰησοῦ ἐν τῷ σώματι ἡμῶν φανερωθῇ1

Possible meanings are (1) “our bodies will live again, because Jesus is alive” or (2) “the spiritual life that Jesus gives also may be shown in our bodies.”

1874:10w3jcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἡ ζωὴ τοῦ Ἰησοῦ ἐν τῷ σώματι ἡμῶν φανερωθῇ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “other people may see the life of Jesus in our bodies” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1884:11ht74rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἀεὶ γὰρ ἡμεῖς, οἱ ζῶντες, εἰς θάνατον παραδιδόμεθα διὰ Ἰησοῦν1

Carrying the death of Jesus represents being in danger of dying because of being loyal to Jesus. Alternate translation: “For those of us who are alive, God is always leading us to face death because we are joined to Jesus” or “People are always causing us who are alive to be in danger of dying because we are joined to Jesus” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1894:11d1wmἵνα καὶ ἡ ζωὴ τοῦ Ἰησοῦ φανερωθῇ ἐν τῇ θνητῇ σαρκὶ ἡμῶν1

God wants Jesus life be shown in us. Possible meanings are (1) “our bodies will live again, because Jesus is alive” or (2) “the spiritual life that Jesus gives also may be shown in our bodies.” See how you translated this phrase in 2 Corinthians 4:10.

1904:11ww5rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἵνα καὶ ἡ ζωὴ τοῦ Ἰησοῦ φανερωθῇ ἐν τῇ θνητῇ σαρκὶ ἡμῶν1

This can be stated in active form. See how you translated this phrase in 2 Corinthians 4:10. Alternate translation: “so other people may see the life of Jesus in our body” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1914:12q3ilrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationὁ θάνατος ἐν ἡμῖν ἐνεργεῖται, ἡ δὲ ζωὴ ἐν ὑμῖν1

Paul speaks of death and life as if they are persons who can work. This means that they are always in danger of physical death so that the Corinthians can have spiritual life. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

1924:13ret6τὸ αὐτὸ πνεῦμα τῆς πίστεως1

“the same attitude of faith.” Here the word “spirit” refers a persons attitude and temperament.

1934:13gzf4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκατὰ τὸ γεγραμμένον1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “as the one who wrote these words” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1944:13il5hἐπίστευσα, διὸ ἐλάλησα1

This is a quote from the Psalms.

1954:14t2i8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomὅτι ὁ ἐγείρας τὸν Ἰησοῦν & ἐγερεῖ1

Here to raise up is an idiom for causing someone who has died to become alive again. Alternate translation: “that the one who caused the Lord Jesus to live again will” or “God, who raised the Lord Jesus, will” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

1964:15v7sjτὰ γὰρ πάντα δι’ ὑμᾶς1

Here the word “everything” refers to all of the sufferings that Paul has described in previous verses.

1974:15l1murc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἡ χάρις πλεονάσασα διὰ τῶν πλειόνων1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “as God spreads his grace to many people” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

1984:15u8pprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτὴν εὐχαριστίαν περισσεύσῃ1

Paul speaks of thanksgiving as if it were an object that could become larger by itself. Alternate translation: “more and more people may give thanks” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

1994:16u6e50

Paul writes that the Corinthian difficulties are minor and do not last long when compared to the unseen eternal things.

2004:16cb92rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegativesδιὸ οὐκ ἐνκακοῦμεν1

This can be stated as a positive. Alternate translation: “So we remain confident” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

2014:16hhv6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitὁ ἔξω ἡμῶν ἄνθρωπος διαφθείρεται1

This refers to their physical bodies decaying and dying. Alternate translation: “our physical bodies are getting weak and dying” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2024:16s9b2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitὁ ἔσω ἡμῶν ἀνακαινοῦται ἡμέρᾳ καὶ ἡμέρᾳ1

This refers to their inward, spiritual lives getting stronger. Alternate translation: “our spiritual beings are being strengthened day by day” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2034:16zct5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὁ ἔσω ἡμῶν ἀνακαινοῦται ἡμέρᾳ καὶ ἡμέρᾳ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God is renewing our inward being more each day” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2044:17pd63rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτὸ γὰρ παραυτίκα ἐλαφρὸν τῆς θλίψεως ἡμῶν & αἰώνιον βάρος δόξης, κατεργάζεται ἡμῖν1

Paul speaks of his sufferings and the glory that God will give him as if they were objects that can be weighed. The glory far outweighs the suffering. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2054:17na9yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorκαθ’ ὑπερβολὴν εἰς ὑπερβολὴν1

The glory that Paul will experience is so heavy that no one can measure it. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that no one can measure” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2064:18t2fprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτὰ βλεπόμενα & τὰ μὴ βλεπόμενα1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “things that we can see … things that we cannot see” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2074:18f97xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisτὰ δὲ μὴ βλεπόμενα1

You can supply the verb for this phrase. AT “but we are watching for things that are unseen” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

2085:intros14p0

2 Corinthians 05 General Notes

Special concepts in this chapter

New bodies in heaven

Paul knows that when he dies he will receive a much better body. Because of this, he is not afraid of being killed for preaching the gospel. So he tells others that they too can be reconciled to God. Christ will take away their sin and give them his righteousness. (See: [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/goodnews]], [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/reconcile]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]])

New creation

The old and new creation probably refers to how Paul illustrates the old and new self. These concepts are also the same as the old and new man. The term “old” probably does not refer to the sinful nature with which a person is born. It refers to the old way of living or the Christian formerly being bound to sin. The “new creation” is the new nature or new life that God gives a person after they come to believe in Christ. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Home

The Christians home is no longer in the world. A Christians real home is in heaven. By using this metaphor, Paul emphasizes that the Christians circumstances in this world are temporary. It gives hope to those who are suffering. (See: [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/heaven]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/hope]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

“The message of reconciliation”

This refers to the gospel. Paul calls for people who are hostile to God to repent and be reconciled to him. (See: [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/reconcile]])

2095:1p7b70

Paul continues by contrasting believers earthly bodies to the heavenly ones God will give.

2105:1z4vsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐὰν ἡ ἐπίγειος ἡμῶν οἰκία τοῦ σκήνους καταλυθῇ, οἰκοδομὴν ἐκ Θεοῦ ἔχομεν1

Here a temporary “earthly dwelling” is a metaphor for a persons physical body. Here a permanent “building from God” is a metaphor for the new body that God will give believers after they die. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2115:1zy2krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐὰν ἡ ἐπίγειος ἡμῶν οἰκία τοῦ σκήνους καταλυθῇ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “if people destroy the earthly dwelling that we live in” or “if people kill our bodies” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2125:1bqi5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveοἰκίαν ἀχειροποίητον1

Here “house” means the same thing as “building from God.” Here “hands” is a synecdoche that represents the human as a whole. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “It is a house that humans did not make” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

2135:2tc2jἐν τούτῳ στενάζομεν1

Here “this tent” means the same thing as “the earthly dwelling that we live in.” The word groan is a sound that a person makes when they eagerly desire to have something that is good.

2145:2ss6grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτὸ οἰκητήριον ἡμῶν τὸ ἐξ οὐρανοῦ ἐπενδύσασθαι ἐπιποθοῦντες1

The words “our heavenly dwelling” means the same thing as “building from God.” Paul speaks of the new body that believers receive after they die as if it were both a building and a piece of clothing that a person can put on. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2155:3i4esἐνδυσάμενοι1

“by putting on our heavenly dwelling”

2165:3ap7vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveοὐ γυμνοὶ εὑρεθησόμεθα1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “we will not be naked” or “God will not find us naked” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2175:4bz6krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorοἱ ὄντες ἐν τῷ σκήνει1

Paul speaks of the physical body as if it were a “tent.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2185:4e34bἐν τῷ σκήνει, στενάζομεν1

The word “tent” refers to “the earthly dwelling that we live in.” The word groan is a sound that a person makes when they eagerly desire to have something that is good. See how you translated this in 2 Corinthians 5:2.

2195:4cjt4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorβαρούμενοι1

Paul refers to the difficulties that the physical body experiences as if they were heavy objects that are difficult to carry. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2205:4f8rbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorοὐ θέλομεν ἐκδύσασθαι & ἐπενδύσασθαι1

Paul speaks of the body as if it were clothing. Here “to be unclothed” refers to the death of the physical body; “to be clothed” refers to having the resurrection body that God will give. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2215:4n78pἐκδύσασθαι1

“to be without clothes” or “to be naked”

2225:4de2brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἵνα καταποθῇ τὸ θνητὸν ὑπὸ τῆς ζωῆς1

Paul speaks of life as if it were an animal that eats “what is mortal.” The physical body that will die will be replaced by a resurrection body that will live forever. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2235:4e5zirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἵνα καταποθῇ τὸ θνητὸν ὑπὸ τῆς ζωῆς1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “so that life may swallow up what is mortal” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2245:5g7yjrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὁ δοὺς ἡμῖν τὸν ἀρραβῶνα τοῦ Πνεύματος1

The Spirit is spoken of as if he were a partial down payment toward eternal life. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Corinthians 1:22. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2255:6clh50

Because believers will have a new body and have the Holy Spirit as a pledge, Paul reminds them to live by faith that they may please the Lord. He continues by reminding them to persuade others because (1) believers will appear at the judgment seat of Christ and (2) because of love for Christ who died for believers.

2265:6xv3mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐνδημοῦντες ἐν τῷ σώματι1

Paul speaks of the physical body as if it were a place where a person dwells. Alternate translation: “while we are living in this earthly body” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2275:6ebl4ἐκδημοῦμεν ἀπὸ τοῦ Κυρίου1

“we are not at home with the Lord” or “we are not in heaven with the Lord”

2285:7rfn4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorδιὰ πίστεως & περιπατοῦμεν, οὐ διὰ εἴδους1

Here “walk” is a metaphor for “live” or “behave.” Alternate translation: “we live according to faith, not according to what we see” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2295:8a6auεὐδοκοῦμεν, μᾶλλον ἐκδημῆσαι ἐκ τοῦ σώματος1

Here the word “body” refers to the physical body.

2305:8i3m3ἐνδημῆσαι πρὸς τὸν Κύριον1

“at home with the Lord in heaven”

2315:9ml5jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisεἴτε ἐνδημοῦντες εἴτε ἐκδημοῦντες1

The word “the Lord” may be supplied from the previous verses. Alternate translation: “whether we are at home with the Lord or away from the Lord” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

2325:9j1slεὐάρεστοι αὐτῷ εἶναι1

“to please the Lord”

2335:10kdf2ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ βήματος τοῦ Χριστοῦ1

“before Christ to be judged”

2345:10c499κομίσηται ἕκαστος τὰ διὰ0

“each person may receive what he deserves”

2355:10v8slrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτὰ διὰ τοῦ σώματος1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the things he has done in the physical body” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2365:10lsh8εἴτε ἀγαθὸν εἴτε κακὸν1

“whether those things were good or bad”

2375:11dzh5εἰδότες & τὸν φόβον τοῦ Κυρίου1

“knowing what it means to fear the Lord”

2385:11qm34rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἀνθρώπους πείθομεν1

Possible meanings are (1) “we persuade people of the truth of the gospel” or (2) “we persuade people that we are legitimate apostles.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2395:11v11vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveΘεῷ & πεφανερώμεθα1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God clearly sees what kind of people we are” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2405:11y5l1καὶ ἐν ταῖς συνειδήσεσιν ὑμῶν πεφανερῶσθαι1

“that you are also convinced of it”

2415:12mza1ἵνα ἔχητε1

“so you may have something to say to”

2425:12it2rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτοὺς ἐν προσώπῳ καυχωμένους, καὶ μὴ ἐν καρδίᾳ1

Here the word “appearances” refers to outward expressions of things like ability and status. The word “heart” refers to the inward character of a person. Alternate translation: “those who praise their own actions, but do not care about what they really are in their inner being” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2435:13cy57rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomεἴτε & ἐξέστημεν & εἴτε σωφρονοῦμεν1

Paul is speaking about the way others think of him and his coworkers. Alternate translation: “if people think we are crazy … if people think we are sane” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

2445:14azi9ἡ γὰρ ἀγάπη τοῦ Χριστοῦ1

Possible meanings are (1) “Our love for Christ” or (2) “Christs love for us.”

2455:14nd9gὑπὲρ πάντων ἀπέθανεν1

“died for all people”

2465:15h831τῷ ὑπὲρ αὐτῶν ἀποθανόντι καὶ ἐγερθέντι1

“him who for their sake died and whom God caused to live again” or “Christ, who died for their sake and whom God raised”

2475:15ri6fὑπὲρ αὐτῶν1

Possible meanings are (1) these words refer only to “died” or (2) these words refer to both “died” and “was raised.”

2485:16f2ww0

Because of Christs love and death, we are not to judge by human standards. We are appointed to teach others how to be united with and have peace with God through Christs death and receive Gods righteousness through Christ.

2495:16ic21ὥστε1

This refers to what Paul has just said about living for Christ instead of living for self.

2505:17tl3hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorκαινὴ κτίσις1

Paul speaks of the person who believes in Christ as if God had created a new person. Alternate translation: “he is a new person” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2515:17ue8fτὰ ἀρχαῖα παρῆλθεν1

Here “the old things” refers to the things that characterized a person before they trusted in Christ.

2525:17vpe3ἰδοὺ1

The word “See” here alerts us to pay attention to the surprising information that follows.

2535:18jyf7τὰ & πάντα1

“God has done all these things.” This refers to what Paul has just said in the previous verse about new things replacing old things.

2545:18lj2hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsτὴν διακονίαν τῆς καταλλαγῆς1

This can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “the ministry of reconciling people to him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

2555:19gvl2ὡς ὅτι1

“This means”

2565:19w1d1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐν Χριστῷ κόσμον καταλλάσσων ἑαυτῷ1

Here the word “world” refers to people in the world. Alternate translation: “in Christ, God is reconciling mankind to himself” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2575:19b62qθέμενος ἐν ἡμῖν τὸν λόγον τῆς καταλλαγῆς1

God has given Paul the responsibility to spread the message that God is reconciling people to himself.

2585:19ix97τὸν λόγον τῆς καταλλαγῆς1

“the message about reconciliation”

2595:20wg8frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὑπὲρ Χριστοῦ οὖν πρεσβεύομεν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God has appointed us as Christs representatives” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2605:20q9u9Χριστοῦ οὖν πρεσβεύομεν1

“those who speak for Christ”

2615:20a6fxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκαταλλάγητε τῷ Θεῷ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Let God reconcile you to himself” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2625:21jp2aτὸν μὴ γνόντα ἁμαρτίαν, ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν ἁμαρτίαν ἐποίησεν1

“God made Christ become the sacrifice for our sin”

2635:21hz6zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveἡμῶν & ἡμεῖς1

Here the words “our” and “we” are inclusive and refer to all believers. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

2645:21ebz2τὸν μὴ γνόντα ἁμαρτίαν1

“Christ is the one who never sinned”

2655:21zm9eδικαιοσύνη Θεοῦ ἐν αὐτῷ1

“God did this … the righteousness of God in Christ”

2665:21kmt9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἵνα ἡμεῖς γενώμεθα δικαιοσύνη Θεοῦ ἐν αὐτῷ1

The phrase “the righteousness of God” refers to the righteousness that God requires and which comes from God. Alternate translation: “so that we might have Gods righteousness in us through Christ” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2676:introf5qu0

2 Corinthians 06 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with verses 2 and 16-18, which are words from the Old Testament.

Special concepts in this chapter

Servants

Paul refers to Christians as servants of God. God calls Christians to serve him in all circumstances. Paul describes some of the difficult circumstances in which he and his companions served God.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Contrasts

Paul uses four pairs of contrasts: righteousness versus lawlessness, light versus darkness, Christ versus Satan, and the temple of God versus idols. These contrasts show a difference between Christians and non-Christians. (See: [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/other/light]] and [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/other/darkness]])

Light and darkness

The Bible often speaks of unrighteous people, people who do not do what pleases God, as if they were walking around in darkness. It speaks of light as if it were what enables those sinful people to become righteous, to understand what they are doing wrong and begin to obey God. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]])

Rhetorical questions

Paul uses a series of rhetorical questions to teach his readers. All of these questions make essentially the same point: Christians should not intimately fellowship with those who live in sin. Paul repeats these questions for emphasis. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

We

Paul likely uses the pronoun “we” to represent at least Timothy and himself. It may also include other people.

2686:1in530

In verse 2, Paul quotes a portion from the prophet Isaiah.

2696:1kf1d0

Paul summarizes how working together for God is supposed to be.

2706:1tbr6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitσυνεργοῦντες1

Paul is implying that he and Timothy are working with God. Alternate translation: “Working together with God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2716:1s8dbrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegativesκαὶ, παρακαλοῦμεν μὴ εἰς κενὸν τὴν χάριν τοῦ Θεοῦ δέξασθαι ὑμᾶς1

Paul pleads with them to allow the grace of God to be effective in their lives. This can be stated in positive terms. Alternate translation: “we beg you to make use of the grace that you have received from God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

2726:2u9kcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitλέγει γάρ1

“For God says.” This introduces a quotation from the prophet Isaiah. Alternate translation: “For God says in scripture” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

2736:2sa94ἰδοὺ1

The word “Look” here alerts us to pay attention to the surprising information that follows.

2746:3v3wcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorμηδεμίαν ἐν μηδενὶ διδόντες προσκοπήν1

Paul speaks of anything that would prevent a person from trusting in Christ as if it were a physical object over which that person trips and falls. Alternate translation: “We do not want to do anything that will prevent people from believing our message” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2756:3he3crc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveμὴ μωμηθῇ ἡ διακονία1

The word “discredited” refers to people speaking badly about Pauls ministry, and working against the message he proclaims. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “we do not want anyone to be able to speak badly about our ministry” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2766:4xd9lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive0

When Paul uses “we” here, he is referring to himself and Timothy. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

2776:4p9upἐν παντὶ συνιστάντες ἑαυτοὺς ὡς Θεοῦ διάκονοι1

“We prove that we are Gods servants by all that we do”

2786:4xyf9Θεοῦ διάκονοι: ἐν ὑπομονῇ πολλῇ, ἐν θλίψεσιν, ἐν ἀνάγκαις, ἐν στενοχωρίαις1

Paul mentions various difficult situations in which they proved that they are Gods servants.

2796:5it8gἐν πληγαῖς, ἐν φυλακαῖς, ἐν ἀκαταστασίαις, ἐν κόποις, ἐν ἀγρυπνίαις, ἐν νηστείαις1

Paul continues to mention various difficult situations in which they proved that they are Gods servants.

2806:6w84cἐν ἁγνότητι & ἐν ἀγάπῃ ἀνυποκρίτῳ1

Paul lists several moral virtues that they maintained in difficult situations that proved that they are Gods servants.

2816:7b6amἐν λόγῳ ἀληθείας, ἐν δυνάμει Θεοῦ1

Their dedication to preach the gospel in the power of God proves that they are Gods servants.

2826:7dui6ἐν λόγῳ ἀληθείας1

“by speaking Gods message about truth” or “by speaking Gods true message”

2836:7p5l5ἐν δυνάμει Θεοῦ1

“by showing Gods power to people”

2846:7ven8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorδιὰ τῶν ὅπλων τῆς δικαιοσύνης τῶν δεξιῶν καὶ ἀριστερῶν1

Paul speaks of their righteousness as if it is weapons that they use to fight spiritual battles. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2856:7ef5bτῶν ὅπλων τῆς δικαιοσύνης1

“righteousness as our armor” or “righteousness as our weapons”

2866:7ijr2τῶν δεξιῶν καὶ ἀριστερῶν1

Possible meanings are (1) that there is a weapon in one hand and a shield in the other or (2) that they are completely equipped for battle, able to fend off attacks from any direction.

2876:8zi7drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism0

Paul lists several extremes of how people think about him and his ministry. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])

2886:8e4pfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὡς πλάνοι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People accuse us of being deceitful” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2896:9fcb5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὡς ἀγνοούμενοι καὶ ἐπιγινωσκόμενοι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “as if people did not know us and yet people still know us well” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2906:9r1d9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveὡς παιδευόμενοι καὶ μὴ θανατούμενοι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “We work as if people are punishing us for our actions but not as if they have condemned us to death” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2916:11vh9v0

Paul encourages the believers at Corinth to be separated from idols and live clean lives for God.

2926:11v74jτὸ στόμα ἡμῶν ἀνέῳγεν πρὸς ὑμᾶς1

“spoken honestly to you”

2936:11mv85rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἡ καρδία ἡμῶν πεπλάτυνται1

Paul speaks of his great affection for the Corinthians as having a heart that is open. Here “heart” is a metonym for a persons emotions. Alternate translation: “we love you very much” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2946:12xv9trc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorοὐ στενοχωρεῖσθε ἐν ἡμῖν, στενοχωρεῖσθε δὲ ἐν τοῖς σπλάγχνοις ὑμῶν1

Paul speaks of the Corinthians lack of love for him as if their hearts were squeezed into a tight space. Here “heart” is a metonym for a persons emotions. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

2956:12u4fzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveοὐ στενοχωρεῖσθε ἐν ἡμῖν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “We have not restrained you” or “We have not given you any reason to stop loving us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2966:12ecn4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveστενοχωρεῖσθε & ἐν τοῖς σπλάγχνοις ὑμῶν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “your own hearts are restraining you” or “you have stopped loving us for your own reasons” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

2976:13c6vprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorπλατύνθητε καὶ ὑμεῖς1

Paul urges the Corinthians to love him as he has loved them. Alternate translation: “love us back” or “love us much as we have loved you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

2986:14wj410

In verse 16, Paul paraphrases portions from several Old Testament prophets: Moses, Zechariah, Amos, and possibly others.

2996:14v7kkrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegativesμὴ γίνεσθε ἑτεροζυγοῦντες ἀπίστοις1

This can be stated in positive terms. Alternate translation: “Only be tied together with believers” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

3006:14qd33rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorμὴ γίνεσθε ἑτεροζυγοῦντες1

Paul speaks of working together toward a common purpose as if it were two animals tied together to pull a plow or cart. Alternate translation: “team up with” or “have a close relationship with” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3016:14v7pwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτίς γὰρ μετοχὴ δικαιοσύνῃ καὶ ἀνομίᾳ1

This is a rhetorical question that anticipates a negative answer. Alternate translation: “For righteousness can have no association with lawlessness” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

3026:14xr52rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionἢ τίς κοινωνία φωτὶ πρὸς σκότος?1

Paul asks this question to emphasize that light and darkness cannot coexist since light dispels darkness. The words “light” and “darkness” refer to the moral and spiritual qualities of believers and unbelievers. Alternate translation: “Light can have no fellowship with darkness” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3036:15r1vqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτίς δὲ συμφώνησις Χριστοῦ πρὸς Βελιάρ1

This is a rhetorical question that anticipates a negative answer. Alternate translation: “There is no agreement between Christ and Beliar” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

3046:15rm3rrc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-namesΒελιάρ1

This is another name for the devil. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

3056:15z9ivrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionἢ τίς μερὶς πιστῷ μετὰ ἀπίστου?1

This is a rhetorical question that anticipates a negative answer. Alternate translation: “A believer shares nothing in common with an unbeliever” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

3066:16y99xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτίς δὲ συνκατάθεσις ναῷ Θεοῦ μετὰ εἰδώλων?1

This is a rhetorical question that anticipates a negative answer. Alternate translation: “There is no agreement between the temple of God and idols” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

3076:16s3l8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἡμεῖς γὰρ ναὸς Θεοῦ ἐσμεν ζῶντος1

Paul refers to all Christians as forming a temple for God to dwell in. Alternate translation: “we are like a temple where the living God dwells” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

3086:16u5g3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismἐνοικήσω ἐν αὐτοῖς, καὶ ἐνπεριπατήσω1

This is an Old Testament quotation speaks of God being with the people in two different ways. The words “dwell among” speak of living where others live, while the words “walk among” speak of being with them as they go about their lives. Alternate translation: “I will be with them and help them” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3096:17fe1z0

Paul quotes portions from the Old Testament prophets, Isaiah and Ezekiel.

3106:17z5ldrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἀφορίσθητε1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “set yourselves apart” or “allow me to set you apart” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3116:17c8jqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegativesἀκαθάρτου μὴ ἅπτεσθε1

This can be stated in positive terms. Alternate translation: “Touch only things that are clean” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

3127:introhg360

2 Corinthians 07 General Notes

Structure and formatting

In verses 2-4, Paul finishes his defense. He then writes about Titus return and the comfort it brought.

Special concepts in this chapter

Clean and unclean

Christians are “clean” in the sense that God has cleansed them from sin. They do not need to be concerned with being clean according to the law of Moses. Ungodly living can still make a Christian unclean. (See: [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/clean]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])

Sadness and sorrow

The words “sad” and “sorrow” in this chapter indicate that the Corinthians were upset to the point of repenting. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

We

Paul likely uses the pronoun “we” to represent at least Timothy and himself. It may also include other people.

Original situation

This chapter discusses in detail a previous situation. We can figure out some aspects of this situation from the information in this chapter. But it is best not to include this type of implicit information in a translation. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

3137:1e7t90

Paul continues to remind them to be separated from sin and to seek holiness purposefully.

3147:1h5xvἀγαπητοί1

“You whom I love” or “Dear friends”

3157:1fv49καθαρίσωμεν ἑαυτοὺς1

Here Paul is saying to stay away from any form of sin that would affect ones relationship with God.

3167:1c2xfἐπιτελοῦντες ἁγιωσύνην1

“Let us strive to be holy”

3177:1pt41ἐν φόβῳ Θεοῦ1

“out of deep respect for God”

3187:2v4nu0

Having already warned the people of Corinth about other leaders who were striving to get these Corinthian believers to follow them, Paul reminds the people of the way he feels about them.

3197:2x3lgrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorχωρήσατε ἡμᾶς1

This refers back to what Paul said starting in 2 Corinthians 6:11 about them opening their hearts to him. Alternate translation: “Make room for us in your hearts” or “Love us and accept us” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

3207:3bhb7πρὸς κατάκρισιν οὐ λέγω1

“I do not say this to accuse you of having done wrong.” The word “this” refers to what Paul just said about not having wronged anyone.

3217:3fay3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ἡμῶν ἐστε1

Paul speaks of his and his associates great love for the Corinthians as if they held them in their hearts. Alternate translation: “you are very dear to us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3227:3xzg3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomεἰς τὸ συναποθανεῖν καὶ συνζῆν1

This means that Paul and his associates will continue to love the Corinthians no matter what happens. Alternate translation: “whether we live or whether we die” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

3237:3jt6brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveεἰς τὸ συναποθανεῖν1

“us” includes the Corinthian believers. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

3247:4mh12rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπεπλήρωμαι τῇ παρακλήσει1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “You fill me with comfort” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3257:4mx9brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὑπερπερισσεύομαι τῇ χαρᾷ1

Paul speaks of joy as if it is a liquid that fills him until he overflows. Alternate translation: “I am extremely joyful” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3267:4mr75ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ θλίψει ἡμῶν0

“despite all our hardships”

3277:5f3c5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveἐλθόντων ἡμῶν εἰς Μακεδονίαν1

Here the word “we” refers to Paul and Timothy but not to the Corinthians or Titus. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

3287:5c8jurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheοὐδεμίαν ἔσχηκεν ἄνεσιν ἡ σὰρξ ἡμῶν1

Here “bodies” refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: “we had no rest” or “we were very tired” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

3297:5h3cvrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐν παντὶ θλιβόμενοι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “we experienced trouble in every way” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3307:5i4wrrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἔξωθεν μάχαι, ἔσωθεν φόβοι1

Possible meanings for “outside” are (1) “outside of our bodies” or (2) “outside of the church.” The word “inside” refers to their inward emotions. Alternate translation: “by conflicts with other people and by fears within ourselves” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

3317:7w7tdrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐν τῇ παρακλήσει ᾗ παρεκλήθη ἐφ’ ὑμῖν1

Paul received comfort from knowing that the Corinthians had comforted Titus. Alternate translation: “by learning about the comfort that Titus had received from you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

3327:8b2xj0

This refers to Pauls previous letter to these Corinthian believers where he rebuked them for their acceptance of a believers sexual immorality with his fathers wife.

3337:8jic50

Paul praises them for their godly sorrow, their zeal to do right, and the joy that it brought him and Titus.

3347:8vk7mβλέπω ὅτι ἡ ἐπιστολὴ1

“when I learned that my letter”

3357:9kn5qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveοὐχ ὅτι ἐλυπήθητε0

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “not because what I said in my letter distressed you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3367:9l6d2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἐν μηδενὶ ζημιωθῆτε ἐξ ἡμῶν1

“you suffered no loss because we rebuked you.” This means that although the letter caused them sorrow, they eventually benefited from the letter because it led them to repentance. Alternate translation: “so that we did not harm you in any way” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

3377:10dtm3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisἡ γὰρ κατὰ Θεὸν λύπη, μετάνοιαν εἰς σωτηρίαν1

The word “repentance” may be repeated to clarify its relationship to what precedes it and what follows it. Alternate translation: “For godly sorrow produces repentance, and repentance leads to salvation” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

3387:10lc4mἀμεταμέλητον1

Possible meanings are (1) Paul has no regret that he caused them sorrow because that sorrow led to their repentance and salvation or (2) the Corinthians will not regret experiencing sorrow because it led to their repentance and salvation.

3397:10lc1src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἡ δὲ τοῦ κόσμου λύπη, θάνατον κατεργάζεται1

This kind of sorrow leads to death instead of salvation because it does not produce repentance. Alternate translation: “Worldly sorrow, however, leads to spiritual death” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

3407:11l24sἰδοὺ γὰρ αὐτὸ τοῦτο1

“Look and see for yourselves what great determination”

3417:11gpp2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamationsσπουδήν: ἀλλὰ ἀπολογίαν1

Here the word “How” makes this statement an exclamation. Alternate translation: “Your determination to prove you were innocent was very great!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]])

3427:11xt2rἀλλὰ ἀγανάκτησιν1

“your anger”

3437:11h6jcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἀλλὰ ἐκδίκησιν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that someone should carry out justice” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3447:12w6lsτοῦ ἀδικήσαντος1

“the one who did wrong”

3457:12i6snrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτοῦ φανερωθῆναι τὴν σπουδὴν ὑμῶν, τὴν ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν πρὸς ὑμᾶς ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “so that you would know that your good will toward us is sincere” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3467:12ycy7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ1

This refers to Gods presence. Gods understanding and approval of Pauls truthfulness is referred to as God being able to see them. See how you translated this in 2 Corinthians 4:2. Alternate translation: “before God” or “with God as witness” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3477:13kn2qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveδιὰ τοῦτο παρακεκλήμεθα1

Here the word “this” refers to the way the Corinthians responded to Pauls previous letter, as he described in the previous verse. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “This is what encourages us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3487:13v2g6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἀναπέπαυται τὸ πνεῦμα αὐτοῦ ἀπὸ πάντων ὑμῶν1

Here the word “spirit” refers to a persons temperament and disposition. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “all of you refreshed his spirit” or “all of you made him stop worrying” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3497:14b4uqὅτι εἴ τι αὐτῷ ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν κεκαύχημαι1

“For although I boasted to him about you”

3507:14m22cοὐ κατῃσχύνθην1

“you did not disappoint me”

3517:14q5hgἡ καύχησις ἡμῶν ἡ ἐπὶ Τίτου ἀλήθεια ἐγενήθη1

“you proved that our boasting about you to Titus was true”

3527:15d87jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsτὴν πάντων ὑμῶν ὑπακοήν1

This noun “obedience” can be stated with a verb, “obey.” Alternate translation: “how all of you obeyed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

3537:15g9bzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletμετὰ φόβου καὶ τρόμου ἐδέξασθε αὐτόν1

Here “fear” and “trembling” share similar meanings and emphasize the intensity of fear. Alternate translation: “you welcomed him with great reverence” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

3547:15q47hμετὰ φόβου καὶ τρόμου1

Possible meanings are (1) “with great reverence for God” or (2) “with great reverence for Titus.”

3558:introkl7m0

2 Corinthians 08 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Chapters 8 and 9 begin a new section. Paul writes about how churches in Greece helped needy believers in Jerusalem.

Some translations set quotations from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. The ULT does this with the quoted words of verse 15.

Special concepts in this chapter

Gift to the church in Jerusalem

The church in Corinth started preparing to give money to the poor believers in Jerusalem. The churches in Macedonia also had given generously. Paul sends Titus and two other believers to Corinth to encourage the Corinthians to give generously. Paul and the others will carry the money to Jerusalem. They want people to know it is being done honestly.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

We

Paul likely uses the pronoun “we” to represent at least Timothy and himself. It may also include other people.

Paradox

A “paradox” is a true statement that appears to describe something impossible. These words in verse 2 are a paradox: “the abundance of their joy and the extremity of their poverty have produced great riches of generosity.” In verse 3 Paul explains how their poverty produced riches. Paul also uses riches and poverty in other paradoxes. (2 Corinthians 8:2)

3568:1mm8g0

Having explained his changed plans and his ministry direction, Paul talks about giving.

3578:1d1mjrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτὴν χάριν τοῦ Θεοῦ τὴν δεδομένην ἐν ταῖς ἐκκλησίαις τῆς Μακεδονίας1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the grace that God has given to the churches of Macedonia” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3588:2fsq8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personificationἡ περισσεία τῆς χαρᾶς αὐτῶν καὶ ἡ κατὰ βάθους πτωχεία αὐτῶν, ἐπερίσσευσεν εἰς τὸ πλοῦτος τῆς ἁπλότητος αὐτῶν1

Paul speaks of “joy” and “poverty” as if they were living things that can produce generosity. Alternate translation: “because of the peoples great joy and extreme poverty, they have become very generous” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])

3598:2b7k5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἡ περισσεία τῆς χαρᾶς αὐτῶν1

Paul speaks of joy as if it were a physical object that could increase in size or quantity. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3608:2pr8cἡ κατὰ βάθους πτωχεία αὐτῶν & τὸ πλοῦτος τῆς ἁπλότητος αὐτῶν1

Though the churches of Macedonia have suffered testings of affliction and poverty, by Gods grace, they have been able to collect money for the believers in Jerusalem.

3618:2z6mtτὸ πλοῦτος τῆς ἁπλότητος αὐτῶν1

“a very great generosity.” The words “great riches” emphasize the greatness of their generosity.

3628:3uad6κατὰ1

This refers to the churches in Macedonia.

3638:3e6ubαὐθαίρετοι1

“voluntarily”

3648:4nmw8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτῆς διακονίας τῆς εἰς τοὺς ἁγίους1

Paul is referring to providing money to the believers in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “this ministry of providing for the believers in Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

3658:6z42yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitπροενήρξατο1

Paul is referring to the collection of money from the Corinthians for the believers in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “who had encouraged your giving in the first place” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

3668:6vn4urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐπιτελέσῃ εἰς ὑμᾶς καὶ τὴν χάριν ταύτην1

Titus was to help the Corinthians to complete the collection of money. Alternate translation: “to encourage you to finish collecting and giving your generous gift” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

3678:7fpe1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐν ταύτῃ τῇ χάριτι περισσεύητε1

Paul speaks of the Corinthian believers as if they should produce physical goods. Alternate translation: “make sure you do well in giving for the believers in Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3688:8wn2krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitδιὰ τῆς ἑτέρων σπουδῆς & δοκιμάζων1

Paul is encouraging the Corinthians to give generously by comparing them with the generosity of the Macedonian churches. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

3698:9c1chτὴν χάριν τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν1

In this context, the word “grace” emphasizes the generosity with which Jesus had blessed the Corinthians.

3708:9iz6zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorδι’ ὑμᾶς ἐπτώχευσεν, πλούσιος ὤν1

Paul speaks of Jesus before his incarnation as being rich, and of his becoming human as becoming poor. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3718:9j5ymrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὑμεῖς τῇ ἐκείνου πτωχείᾳ πλουτήσητε1

Paul speaks of the Corinthians becoming spiritually rich as a result of Jesus becoming human. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

3728:10b7htrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐν τούτῳ1

This refers to their collecting money to give to the believers in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “With regard to the collection” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

3738:11fc27rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsκαθάπερ ἡ προθυμία τοῦ θέλειν1

This can be stated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “you were eager and desired to do it” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

3748:11d6lyκαὶ τὸ ἐπιτελέσαι1

“complete it” or “finish it”

3758:12in3vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doubletεὐπρόσδεκτος1

Here the words “good” and “acceptable” share similar meanings and emphasize the goodness of the thing. Alternate translation: “a very good thing” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])

3768:12k9whκαθὸ ἐὰν ἔχῃ1

“Giving must be based on what a person has”

3778:13mp6krc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitγὰρ1

This refers to collecting money for the believers in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “For this task of collecting money” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

3788:13smk2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἵνα ἄλλοις ἄνεσις, ὑμῖν θλῖψις1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that you may relieve others and burden yourselves” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3798:13ktd1ἐξ ἰσότητος1

“there should be equality”

3808:14v7ajἵνα καὶ τὸ ἐκείνων περίσσευμα γένηται εἰς τὸ ὑμῶν ὑστέρημα1

Since the Corinthians are acting in the present time, it is implied that the believers in Jerusalem will also help them at some time in the future. Alternate translation: “This is also so that in the future their abundance may supply your need”

3818:15ue8wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκαθὼς γέγραπται1

Here Paul quotes from Exodus. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “as Moses wrote” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3828:15u28yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegativesοὐκ ἠλαττόνησεν1

This can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “had all he needed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])

3838:16cr18rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdocheτῷ διδόντι τὴν αὐτὴν σπουδὴν ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ Τίτου1

Here the word “heart” refers to the emotions. This means that God caused Titus to love them. Alternate translation: “who made Titus care for you as much as I do” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

3848:16vsm3τὴν αὐτὴν σπουδὴν1

“the same enthusiasm” or “same deep concern”

3858:17e4xnrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitὅτι τὴν μὲν παράκλησιν ἐδέξατο1

Paul is referring to his asking Titus to return to Corinth and complete the collection. Alternate translation: “For he not only agreed to our request that he help you with the collection” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

3868:18rje2μετ’ αὐτοῦ1

“with Titus”

3878:18jll9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτὸν ἀδελφὸν, οὗ ὁ ἔπαινος ἐν τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the brother whom believers among all of the churches praise” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3888:19j9rkοὐ μόνον1

“Not only do believers among all of the churches praise him”

3898:19c667rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκαὶ χειροτονηθεὶς ὑπὸ τῶν ἐκκλησιῶν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the churches also selected him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3908:19k7dyσὺν τῇ χάριτι ταύτῃ τῇ διακονουμένῃ ὑφ’ ἡμῶν1

“to carry out this act of generosity.” This refers to taking the offering to Jerusalem.

3918:19v22xπροθυμίαν ἡμῶν1

“to demonstrate our eagerness to help”

3928:20a3psrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἐν τῇ ἁδρότητι ταύτῃ τῇ διακονουμένῃ ὑφ’ ἡμῶν1

This refers to taking the offering to Jerusalem. The abstract noun “generosity” can be translated with an adjective. Alternate translation: “concerning the way we are handling this generous gift” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

3938:21n4x1προνοοῦμεν γὰρ καλὰ1

“We are careful to handle this gift in an honorable way”

3948:21ey5nἐνώπιον Κυρίου & ἐνώπιον ἀνθρώπω1

“in the Lords opinion … in peoples opinion”

3958:22d3yjαὐτοῖς1

The word “them” refers to Titus and the previously mentioned brother.

3968:23mmi2κοινωνὸς ἐμὸς καὶ εἰς ὑμᾶς συνεργός1

“he is my partner who works with me to help you”

3978:23lat3εἴτε ἀδελφοὶ ἡμῶν1

This refers to the two other men who will accompany Titus.

3988:23u8lxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἀπόστολοι ἐκκλησιῶν1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the churches have sent them” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

3998:23a8v2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsδόξα Χριστοῦ1

This can be stated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “They will cause people to honor Christ” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

4009:introlt8d0

2 Corinthians 09 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set each line of poetry farther to the right than the rest of the text to make it easier to read. The ULT does this with verse 9, which is quoted from the Old Testament.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Metaphors

Paul uses three agricultural metaphors. He uses them to teach about giving to needy believers. The metaphors help Paul explain that God will reward those who give generously. Paul does not say how or when God will reward them. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/other/reward]])

4019:1rd2grc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names0

When Paul refers to Achaia, he is talking about a Roman province located in southern Greece where Corinth is located. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])

4029:1wc5l0

Paul continues on the subject of giving. He wants to make sure that the collection of their offering for the needy believers in Jerusalem takes place before he comes so that it does not seem as though he takes advantage of them. He talks about how giving blesses the giver and glorifies God.

4039:1fxs3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτῆς διακονίας τῆς εἰς τοὺς ἁγίους1

This refers to the collection of money to give to the believers in Jerusalem. The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “the ministry for the believers in Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

4049:2i529rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἈχαΐα παρεσκεύασται1

Here the word “Achaia” refers to the people who live in this province, and specifically to the people of the church in Corinth. Alternate translation: “the people of Achaia have been preparing” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4059:3r5ppτοὺς ἀδελφούς1

This refers to Titus and the two men who accompany him.

4069:3k1erμὴ τὸ καύχημα ἡμῶν, τὸ ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν, κενωθῇ1

Paul does not want others to think that the things that he had boasted about the Corinthians were false.

4079:4j8eyεὕρωσιν ὑμᾶς ἀπαρασκευάστους1

“find you unprepared to give”

4089:5q1uprc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-goτοὺς ἀδελφοὺς, ἵνα προέλθωσιν εἰς ὑμᾶς1

From Pauls perspective, the brothers are going. Alternate translation: “the brothers to go to you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])

4099:5nm2nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveμὴ ὡς πλεονεξίαν0

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “not as something that we forced you to give” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

4109:6mm9wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὁ σπείρων & ἐπ’ εὐλογίαις καὶ θερίσει1

Paul uses the image of a farmer sowing seeds to describe the results of giving. As a farmers harvest is based on how much he sows, so will Gods blessings be little or much based on how generously the Corinthians give. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

4119:7tzt4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἕκαστος καθὼς προῄρηται τῇ καρδίᾳ1

Here the word “heart” refers to the thoughts and emotions. Alternate translation: “give as he has determined” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4129:7whg6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsμὴ ἐκ λύπης ἢ ἐξ ἀνάγκης0

This can be translated with verbal phrases. Alternate translation: “not because he feels guilty or because someone is compelling him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

4139:7t26dἱλαρὸν γὰρ δότην ἀγαπᾷ ὁ Θεός1

God wants people to give gladly to help provide for fellow believers.

4149:8cz9brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorδυνατεῖ δὲ ὁ Θεὸς, πᾶσαν χάριν περισσεῦσαι εἰς ὑμᾶς0

Grace is spoken of as if it were a physical object of which a person can have more than he can use. As a person gives financially to other believers, God also gives to the giver everything he needs. Alternate translation: “God is able to give you more than you need” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

4159:8zxz9χάριν1

This refers here to the physical things a Christian needs, not to the need for God to save him from his sins.

4169:8u8w6περισσεύητε εἰς πᾶν ἔργον ἀγαθόν1

“so that you may be able to do more and more good deeds”

4179:9mma1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveκαθὼς γέγραπται1

“This is just as it is written.” This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “This is just as the writer wrote” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

4189:10p3flὁ & ἐπιχορηγῶν1

“God who supplies”

4199:10b1xerc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἄρτον εἰς βρῶσιν1

Here the word “bread” refers to food in general. Alternate translation: “food to eat” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

4209:10uts1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorχορηγήσει καὶ πληθυνεῖ τὸν σπόρον ὑμῶν1

Paul speaks of the Corinthians possessions as if they are seeds and of giving to others as if they were sowing seeds. Alternate translation: “will also supply and multiply your possessions so that you can sow them by giving them to others” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

4219:10ci67rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorαὐξήσει τὰ γενήματα τῆς δικαιοσύνης ὑμῶν1

Paul compares the benefits that the Corinthians will receive from their generosity to that of a harvest. Alternate translation: “God will bless you even more for your righteousness” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

4229:10yv67τὰ γενήματα τῆς δικαιοσύνης ὑμῶν1

“the harvest that comes from your righteous actions.” Here the word “righteousness” refers to the righteous actions of the Corinthians in giving their resources to the believers in Jerusalem.

4239:11eey1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveπλουτιζόμενοι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will enrich you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

4249:11b3e5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἥτις κατεργάζεται δι’ ἡμῶν, εὐχαριστίαν τῷ Θεῷ1

The word this refers to the Corinthians generosity. Alternate translation: “Because of your generosity, those who receive the gifts we bring them will thank God” or “and when we give your gifts to those who need them, they will give thanks to God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

4259:12l7kqrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitὅτι ἡ διακονία τῆς λειτουργίας ταύτης1

Here the word “service” refers to Paul and his companions bringing the contribution to the believers in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: “For our carrying out this service for the believers in Jerusalem” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

4269:12esk7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἀλλὰ καὶ περισσεύουσα διὰ πολλῶν εὐχαριστιῶν τῷ Θεῷ1

Paul speaks of the Corinthian believers act of service as if it were a liquid of which there is more than a container can hold. Alternate translation: “It also causes many deeds for which people will thank God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

4279:13plj4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveδιὰ τῆς δοκιμῆς τῆς διακονίας ταύτης1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “Because this service has tested and proven you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

4289:13ze14δοξάζοντες τὸν Θεὸν ἐπὶ τῇ ὑποταγῇ τῆς ὁμολογίας ὑμῶν εἰς τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τοῦ Χριστοῦ, καὶ ἁπλότητι τῆς κοινωνίας εἰς αὐτοὺς καὶ εἰς πάντας1

Paul says that the Corinthians will glorify God both by being faithful to Jesus and by giving generously to other believers who have need.

4299:15es8cἐπὶ τῇ ἀνεκδιηγήτῳ αὐτοῦ δωρεᾷ1

“for his gift, which words cannot describe.” Possible meanings are (1) that this gift refers to “the very great grace” that God has given to the Corinthians, which has led them to be so generous or (2) that this gift refers to Jesus Christ, whom God gave to all believers.

43010:introabcd0

2 Corinthians 10 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations set quotations from the Old Testament farther to the right on the page than the rest of the text. The ULT does this with the quoted words of verse 17.

In this chapter, Paul returns to defending his authority. He also compares the way he speaks and the way he writes.

Special concepts in this chapter

Boasting

“Boasting” is often thought of as bragging, which is not good. But in this letter “boasting” means confidently exulting or rejoicing.

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Metaphor

In verses 3-6, Paul uses many metaphors from war. He probably uses them as part of a larger metaphor about Christians being spiritually at war. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Flesh

“Flesh” is possibly a metaphor for a persons sinful nature. Paul is not teaching that our physical bodies are sinful. Paul appears to be teaching that as long as Christians are alive (“in the flesh”), we will continue to sin. But our new nature will be fighting against our old nature. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/flesh]])

43110:1yc1g0

Paul shifts the subject from giving to affirming his authority to teach as he does.

43210:1gq7jrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsδιὰ τῆς πραΰτητος καὶ ἐπιεικείας τοῦ Χριστοῦ1

The word “humility” and “gentleness” are abstract nouns, and can be expressed in another way. Alternate translation: “I am humble and gentle as I do so, because Christ has made me that way” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

43310:2i6hhτοὺς λογιζομένους1

“who think that”

43410:2ik1prc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyὡς κατὰ σάρκα περιπατοῦντας1

The word “flesh” is a metonym for sinful human nature. “we are acting from human motives” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

43510:3cvd6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐν σαρκὶ & περιπατοῦντες1

Here “walk” is an metaphor for “live” and “flesh” is a metonym for physical life. Alternate translation: “we live our lives in physical bodies” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

43610:3k7h8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorοὐ & στρατευόμεθα1

Paul speaks of his trying to persuade the Corinthians to believe him and not the false teachers as if he were fighting a physical war. These words should be translated literally. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

43710:3gpd3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyκατὰ σάρκα στρατευόμεθα1

Possible meanings are (1) the word “flesh” is a metonym for physical life. Alternate translation: “fight against our enemies using physical weapons” or (2) the word “flesh” is a metonym for sinful human nature. Alternate translation: “wage war in sinful ways” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

43810:4uf5src://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτὰ & ὅπλα τῆς στρατείας ἡμῶν & λογισμοὺς καθαιροῦντες1

Paul speaks of godly wisdom showing human wisdom to be false as if it were a weapon with which he was destroying an enemy stronghold. Alternate translation: “the weapons we fight with … show people that what our enemies say is completely wrong” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

43910:4d1gjrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyοὐ σαρκικὰ1

Possible meanings are (1) the word “fleshly” is a metonym for merely physical. Alternate translation: “are not physical” or (2) the word “fleshly” is a metonym for sinful human nature. Alternate translation: “are not sinful” or “do not enable us to do wrong” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

44010:5xuz9πᾶν ὕψωμα ἐπαιρόμενον0

Paul is still speaking with the metaphor of a war, as if “the knowledge of God” were an army and “every high thing” were a wall that people had made to keep the army out. Alternate translation: “every false argument that proud people think of to protect themselves”

44110:5b74dπᾶν ὕψωμα1

“everything that proud people do”

44210:5vm1arc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐπαιρόμενον κατὰ τῆς γνώσεως τοῦ Θεοῦ1

Paul speaks of arguments as if they were a wall standing high against an army. The words “rises up” mean “stands tall,” not that the “high thing” is floating up into the air. Alternate translation: “people use so they will not have to know who God is” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

44310:5r2yzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorαἰχμαλωτίζοντες πᾶν νόημα εἰς τὴν ὑπακοὴν τοῦ Χριστοῦ1

Paul speaks of peoples thoughts as if they were enemy soldiers whom he captures in battle. Alternate translation: “We show how all the false ideas those people have are wrong and teach the people to obey Christ” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

44410:6m4dsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyἐκδικῆσαι πᾶσαν παρακοήν1

The words “act of disobedience” are a metonym for the people who commit those acts. Alternate translation: “punish every one of you who disobey us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

44510:7y2ybrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτὰ κατὰ πρόσωπον βλέπετε1

Possible meanings are (1) this is a command or (2) this is a statement, “You are looking only at what you can see with your eyes.” Some think this is a rhetorical question that may also be written as a statement. Alternate translation: “Are you looking at what is clearly in front of you?” or “You seem unable to see what is clearly in front of you.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

44610:7z1t5λογιζέσθω πάλιν ἐφ’ ἑαυτοῦ1

“he needs to remember”

44710:7f3i9καθὼς αὐτὸς Χριστοῦ, οὕτως καὶ ἡμεῖς1

“that we belong to Christ just as much as he does”

44810:8d4zurc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorεἰς οἰκοδομὴν καὶ οὐκ εἰς καθαίρεσιν ὑμῶν1

Paul speaks of helping the Corinthians to know Christ better as if he were constructing a building. Alternate translation: “to help you become better followers of Christ and not to discourage you so you stop following him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

44910:9nw6eἂν ἐκφοβεῖν ὑμᾶς1

“I am trying to frighten you”

45010:10mt6hβαρεῖαι καὶ ἰσχυραί1

“demanding and forceful”

45110:11m6m6τοῦτο λογιζέσθω ὁ τοιοῦτος1

“I want such people to be aware”

45210:11g58zοἷοί ἐσμεν τῷ λόγῳ δι’ ἐπιστολῶν ἀπόντες, τοιοῦτοι καὶ παρόντες τῷ ἔργῳ1

“we will do the same things when we are there with you that we have written about in our letters while we have been away from you”

45310:11kb55rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusiveἐσμεν1

All instances of these words refer to Pauls ministry team but not the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])

45410:12k94zἐνκρῖναι ἢ συνκρῖναι ἑαυτούς1

“to say we are as good as”

45510:12i85yrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismαὐτοὶ ἐν ἑαυτοῖς, ἑαυτοὺς μετροῦντες καὶ συνκρίνοντες ἑαυτοὺς ἑαυτοῖς1

Paul is saying much the same thing twice. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

45610:12n8sxrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorαὐτοὶ ἐν ἑαυτοῖς, ἑαυτοὺς μετροῦντες1

Paul is speaking of goodness as though it were something whose length people could measure. Alternate translation: “they look at each other and try to see who is better” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

45710:12zwl5οὐ συνιᾶσιν1

“show everyone that they do not know anything”

45810:13x79xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor0

Paul speaks of the authority he has as if it were a land over which he rules, those things over which he has authority as being within the borders or “limits” of his land, and those things not under his authority as being beyond the “limits.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

45910:13a4udrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomοὐκ εἰς τὰ ἄμετρα καυχησόμεθα1

This is an idiom. Alternate translation: “will not boast about things over which we have no authority” or “will boast only about things over which we have authority” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

46010:13u84lκατὰ τὸ μέτρον τοῦ κανόνος, οὗ ἐμέρισεν ἡμῖν ὁ Θεὸς1

“about things under the authority that God”

46110:13fx2brc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorμέτρου, ἐφικέσθαι ἄχρι καὶ ὑμῶν1

Paul speaks of the authority he has as if it were a land over which he rules. Alternate translation: “and you are within the border of our authority” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

46210:14ay6hοὐ & ὑπερεκτείνομεν ἑαυτούς1

“did not go beyond our borders”

46310:15hu9lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomοὐκ εἰς τὰ ἄμετρα καυχώμενοι1

This is an idiom. See how similar words were translated in 2 Corinthians 10:13. Alternate translation: “have not boasted about things over which we have no authority” or “have not boasted only about things over which we have authority” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])

46410:16raq7ἀλλοτρίῳ κανόνι1

“an area God has assigned to someone else”

46510:17q8ccἐν Κυρίῳ καυχάσθω1

“boast about what the Lord has done”

46610:18h81tὁ ἑαυτὸν συνιστάνων1

This means that he provides enough evidence for each person who hears him to decide whether he is right or wrong. See how “recommend ourselves” is translated in 2 Corinthians 4:2.

46710:18n5v6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐστιν δόκιμος1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “whom the Lord approves” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

46810:18sy2rrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisὃν ὁ Κύριος συνίστησιν1

You can make clear the understood information. Alternate translation: “the one whom the Lord recommends is the one of whom the Lord approves” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

46911:introabce0

2 Corinthians 11 General Notes

Structure and formatting

In this chapter, Paul continues defending his authority.

Special concepts in this chapter

False teaching

The Corinthians were quick to accept false teachers. They taught things about Jesus and the gospel that were different and not true. Unlike these false teachers, Paul sacrificially served the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/goodnews]])

Light

Light is commonly used in the New Testament as a metaphor. Paul here uses light to indicate the revealing of God and his righteousness. Darkness describes sin. Sin seeks to remain hidden from God. (See: [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/other/light]], [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/other/darkness]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Metaphor

Paul begins this chapter with an extended metaphor. He compares himself to the father of a bride who is giving a pure, virgin bride to her bridegroom. Wedding practices change depending on the cultural background. But the idea of helping to present someone as a grown and holy child is explicitly pictured in this passage. (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

Irony

This chapter is full of irony. Paul is hoping to shame the Corinthian believers with his irony.

“You tolerate these things well enough!” Paul thinks that they should not tolerate the way the false apostles treated them. Paul does not think they are really apostles at all.

The statement, “For you gladly put up with fools. You are wise yourselves!” means that the Corinthian believers think they were very wise but Paul does not agree.

“I will say to our shame that we were too weak to do that.” Paul is speaking about behavior he thinks is very wrong in order to avoid it. He is speaking as if he thinks he is wrong for not doing it. He uses a rhetorical question also as irony. “Did I sin by humbling myself so you might be exalted?” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-irony]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/apostle]] and [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

Rhetorical questions

In refuting the false apostles claiming to be superior, Paul uses a series of rhetorical questions. Each question is coupled with an answer: “Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they descendants of Abraham? So am I. Are they servants of Christ? (I speak as though I were out of my mind.) I am more.”

He also uses a series of rhetorical questions to empathize with his converts: “Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who has caused another to fall into sin, and I do not burn within?”

“Are they servants of Christ?”

This is sarcasm, a special type of irony used to mock or insult. Paul does not believe these false teachers actually serve Christ, only that they pretend to do so.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Paradox

A “paradox” is a true statement that appears to describe something impossible. This sentence in verse 30 is a paradox: “If I must boast, I will boast about what shows my weaknesses.” Paul does not explain why he would boast in his weakness until 2 Corinthians 12:9. (2 Corinthians 11:30)

47011:1t7ks0

Paul continues to affirm his apostleship.

47111:1r4q6ἀνείχεσθέ μου μικρόν τι ἀφροσύνης1

“allow me to act like a fool”

47211:2m6vlζηλῶ & ζήλῳ1

These words speak of a good, strong desire that the Corinthians be faithful to Christ, and that no one should persuade them to leave him.

47311:2ee9irc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἡρμοσάμην γὰρ ὑμᾶς ἑνὶ ἀνδρὶ, παρθένον ἁγνὴν παραστῆσαι τῷ Χριστῷ1

Paul speaks of his care for the Corinthian believers as if he had promised another man that he would prepare his daughter to marry him and he is most concerned that he be able to keep his promise to the man. Alternate translation: “I was like a father who promised to present his daughter to one husband. I promised to keep you as a pure virgin so I could give you to Christ” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

47411:3l2hrφοβοῦμαι δὲ, μή πως & τῆς ἁγνότητος τῆς εἰς τὸν Χριστόν1

“But I am afraid that somehow your thoughts might be led astray from a sincere and pure devotion to Christ just as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness”

47511:3m5znrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorφθαρῇ τὰ νοήματα ὑμῶν1

Paul speaks of thoughts as if they were animals that people could lead along the wrong path. Alternate translation: “someone might cause you to believe lies” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

47611:4wq57εἰ μὲν γὰρ ὁ ἐρχόμενος1

“When anyone comes and”

47711:4l7m8ἢ πνεῦμα ἕτερον λαμβάνετε ὃ οὐκ ἐλάβετε, ἢ εὐαγγέλιον ἕτερον ὃ οὐκ ἐδέξασθε1

“a different spirit than the Holy Spirit, or a different gospel than you received from us”

47811:4fs5zκαλῶς ἀνέχεσθε1

“deal with these things.” See how these words were translated in 2 Corinthians 11:1.

47911:5eet1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ironyτῶν ὑπέρ λίαν ἀποστόλων1

Paul uses irony here to show that those teachers are less important then people say there are. Alternate translation: “those teachers whom some think are better than anyone else” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])

48011:6f8d1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesοὐ τῇ γνώσει1

This negative phrase emphasizes the positive truth that he is trained in knowledge. The abstract noun “knowledge” can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “I am certainly trained in knowledge” or “I am trained to know what they know” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

48111:7un9vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionἢ ἁμαρτίαν ἐποίησα ἐμαυτὸν ταπεινῶν, ἵνα ὑμεῖς ὑψωθῆτε1

Paul is beginning to claim that he treated the Corinthians well. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement, if necessary. Alternate translation: “I think we agree that I did not sin by humbling myself so you might be exalted” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

48211:7ax51δωρεὰν τὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ εὐαγγέλιον εὐηγγελισάμην ὑμῖν1

“preached the gospel of God to you without expecting anything from you in return”

48311:8k6dsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ironyἄλλας ἐκκλησίας ἐσύλησα1

This is an exaggeration to emphasize that Paul received money from churches who were not obligated to give to him. Alternate translation: “I accepted money from other churches” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-irony]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

48411:8a416rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitτὴν ὑμῶν διακονίαν1

The full meaning of this can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “I could serve you at no cost” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

48511:9fc6lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἐν παντὶ ἀβαρῆ ἐμαυτὸν ὑμῖν ἐτήρησα1

“I have never in any way been a financial burden to you.” Paul speaks of someone for whom one has to spend money as if they were heavy items that people have to carry. The full meaning of this can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “I have done all I can to make sure you do not have to spend money so that I can be with you” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

48611:9a23kοἱ ἀδελφοὶ ἐλθόντες1

These “brothers” were probably all male.

48711:9b35rτηρήσω1

“I never will be a burden to you”

48811:10si2rἔστιν ἀλήθεια Χριστοῦ ἐν ἐμοὶ1

Paul is emphasizing that because his readers know that he tells the truth about Christ, they can know that he is telling the truth here. “As surely as you know that I truly know and proclaim the truth about Christ, you can know that what I am about to say is true. This”

48911:10nae3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἡ καύχησις αὕτη οὐ φραγήσεται εἰς ἐμὲ1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “no one will be able to make me stop boasting and stay silent” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

49011:10ua2iἡ καύχησις αὕτη & εἰς ἐμὲ1

This refers to what Paul spoke about starting in (2 Corinthians 11:7).

49111:10ry9cτοῖς κλίμασι τῆς Ἀχαΐας1

“regions of Achaia.” The word “parts” speaks of areas of land, not political divisions.

49211:11zqu5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionδιὰ τί? ὅτι οὐκ ἀγαπῶ ὑμᾶς?1

Paul uses rhetorical questions to emphasize love for the Corinthians. These questions can be combined or made into a statement. Alternate translation: “Is it because I do not love you that I do not want to be a burden to you?” or “I will continue to keep you from paying for my needs because this shows others that I love you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

49311:11rj6frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisὁ Θεὸς οἶδεν1

You can make clear the understood information. Alternate translation: “God knows I love you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

49411:12si5d0

As Paul continues to affirm his apostleship, he talks about false apostles.

49511:12d9slrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἵνα ἐκκόψω τὴν ἀφορμὴν1

Paul speaks of a false claim that his enemies state as if it were something that he can carry way. Alternate translation: “so that I might make it impossible” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

49611:12t4jsrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveεὑρεθῶσιν καθὼς καὶ ἡμεῖς1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that people will think that they are like us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

49711:13ml66οἱ γὰρ τοιοῦτοι1

“I do what I do because people like them”

49811:13nq3tἐργάται δόλιοι1

“dishonest workers”

49911:13y896μετασχηματιζόμενοι εἰς ἀποστόλους1

“are not apostles, but they try to make themselves look like apostles”

50011:14v9z4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesοὐ θαῦμα1

By stating this in a negative form Paul is emphasizing that the Corinthians should expect to meet many “false apostles” (2 Corinthians 11:13). Alternate translation: “we should expect this” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

50111:14ss7sὁ Σατανᾶς μετασχηματίζεται εἰς ἄγγελον φωτός1

“Satan is not an angel of light, but he tries to make himself look like an angel of light”

50211:14mld4rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἄγγελον φωτός1

Here “light” is a metaphor for righteousness. Alternate translation: “an angel of righteousness” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

50311:15fvx7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesοὐ μέγα1

By stating this in a negative form Paul is emphasizing that the Corinthians should expect to meet many “false apostles” (2 Corinthians 11:13). Alternate translation: “We should certainly expect that” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

50411:15sb58καὶ οἱ διάκονοι αὐτοῦ μετασχηματίζονται ὡς διάκονοι δικαιοσύνης1

“his servants are not servants of righteousness, but they try to make themselves look like servants of righteousness”

50511:16s962ὡς ἄφρονα δέξασθέ με, ἵνα κἀγὼ μικρόν τι καυχήσωμαι1

“receive me as you would receive a fool: let me talk, and consider my boasting the words of a fool”

50611:18t4icrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyκατὰ σάρκα1

Here the metonym “flesh” refers to man in his sinful nature and his achievements. Alternate translation: “about their own human achievements” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

50711:19u8f3ἀνέχεσθε τῶν ἀφρόνων1

“accept me when I act like a fool.” See how a similar phrase was translated in 2 Corinthians 11:1.

50811:19si6lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ironyφρόνιμοι ὄντες1

Paul is shaming the Corinthians by using irony. Alternate translation: “You think you are wise, but you are not!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])

50911:20lu7drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὑμᾶς καταδουλοῖ1

Paul uses exaggeration when he speaks of some people forcing others to obey rules as if they were forcing them to be slaves. Alternate translation: “makes you follow rules they have thought of” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

51011:20sr4nrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorκατεσθίει1

Paul speaks of the super-apostles taking peoples material resources as if they were eating the people themselves. Alternate translation: “he takes all your property” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

51111:20yn5tλαμβάνει1

A person takes advantage of another person by knowing things that the other person does not and using that knowledge to help himself and harm the other person.

51211:21n8s9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ironyκατὰ ἀτιμίαν λέγω ὡς ὅτι ἡμεῖς ἠσθενήκαμεν!1

“I shamefully admit that we were not bold enough to treat you like that.” Paul is using irony to tell the Corinthians that it was not because he was weak that he treated them well. Alternate translation: “I am not ashamed to say that we had the power to harm you, but we treated you well” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])

51311:21v8a3δ’ ἄν τις τολμᾷ (ἐν ἀφροσύνῃ λέγω), τολμῶ κἀγώ1

“Whatever anyone boasts about … I will dare to boast about it also”

51411:22qi8w0

As Paul continues to confirm his apostleship, he states specific things that have happened to him since he became a believer.

51511:22jdq8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionἙβραῖοί εἰσιν? & Ἰσραηλεῖταί εἰσιν? & σπέρμα Ἀβραάμ εἰσιν?1

Paul is asking questions the Corinthians might be asking and then answering them to emphasize that he is as much a Jew as the super-apostles are. You should keep the question-and-answer form if possible. Alternate translation: “They want you to think they are important and to believe what they say because they are Hebrews and Israelites and descendants of Abraham. Well, so am I.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

51611:23a4tzrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionδιάκονοι Χριστοῦ εἰσιν? (παραφρονῶν λαλῶ), ὑπὲρ ἐγώ1

Paul is asking questions the Corinthians might be asking and then answering them to emphasize that he is as much a Jew as the super-apostles are. You should keep the question-and-answer form if possible. Alternate translation: “They say they are servants of Christ—I speak as though I were out of my mind—but I am more” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

51711:23bq23παραφρονῶν λαλῶ1

“as though I were unable to think well”

51811:23vy54rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsisὑπὲρ ἐγώ1

You can make clear the understood information. Alternate translation: “I am more a servant of Christ than they are” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])

51911:23s8wqἐν κόποις περισσοτέρως1

“I have worked harder”

52011:23dr6xἐν φυλακαῖς περισσοτέρως1

“I have been in prisons more often”

52111:23cs3frc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-idiomἐν πληγαῖς ὑπερβαλλόντως1

This is an idiom, and is exaggerated to emphasize that he had been beaten many, many times. Alternate translation: “I have been beaten very many times” or “I have been beaten too many times to bother counting” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

52211:23r6jvἐν θανάτοις πολλάκις1

“and I have almost died many times”

52311:24ttz2τεσσεράκοντα παρὰ μίαν1

This was a common expression for being whipped 39 times. In Jewish law the most they were allowed to whip a person at one time was forty lashes. So they commonly whipped a person thirty-nine times so that they would be guilty of whipping someone too many times if the accidentally counted wrong.

52411:25u9xcrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐραβδίσθην1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people beat me with wooden rods” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

52511:25xk9wrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐλιθάσθην1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “people threw stones at me until they thought I was dead” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

52611:25b4kzνυχθήμερον ἐν τῷ βυθῷ πεποίηκα1

Paul was referring to floating in the water after the ship he was on sank.

52711:26b3j9rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitκινδύνοις ἐν ψευδαδέλφοις1

The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “and in danger from people who claimed to be brothers in Christ, but who betrayed us” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

52811:27ds5hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperboleγυμνότητι1

Here Paul exaggerates to show his need of clothing. Alternate translation: “without enough clothing to keep me warm” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])

52911:28n1q5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἡ ἐπίστασίς μοι ἡ καθ’ ἡμέραν, ἡ μέριμνα πασῶν τῶν ἐκκλησιῶν1

Paul knows that God will hold him responsible for how well the churches obey God and speaks of that knowledge as if it were a heavy object pushing him down. Alternate translation: “I know that God will hold me accountable for the spiritual growth of all the churches, and so I always feel like a heavy object is pushing me down” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

53011:29fvz6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτίς ἀσθενεῖ, καὶ οὐκ ἀσθενῶ?1

This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “Whenever anyone is weak, I feel that weakness also.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

53111:29hhb2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorτίς ἀσθενεῖ, καὶ οὐκ ἀσθενῶ?1

The word “weak” is probably a metaphor for a spiritual condition, but no one is sure what Paul is speaking of, so it is best to use the same word here. Alternate translation: “I am weak whenever anyone else is weak.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

53211:29g5amrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτίς σκανδαλίζεται, καὶ οὐκ ἐγὼ πυροῦμαι?1

Paul uses this question to express his anger when a fellow believer is caused to sin. Here his anger is spoken of as a burning inside him. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “Whenever anyone causes a brother to sin, I am angry.” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

53311:29xu57rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorσκανδαλίζεται1

Paul speaks of sin as if it were tripping over something and then falling. Alternate translation: “has been led to sin” or “has thought that God would permit him to sin because of something that someone else did” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

53411:29jb4vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorοὐκ ἐγὼ πυροῦμαι1

Paul speaks of being angry about sin as if he had a fire inside his body. Alternate translation: “I am not angry about it” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

53511:30gxe6τὰ τῆς ἀσθενείας1

“what shows how weak I am”

53611:31yx8zrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesοὐ ψεύδομαι1

Paul is using litotes to emphasize that he is telling the truth. Alternate translation: “I am telling the absolute truth” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

53711:32n383ὁ ἐθνάρχης Ἁρέτα τοῦ βασιλέως ἐφρούρει τὴν πόλιν1

“the governor whom King Aretas had appointed had told men to guard the city”

53811:32j7deπιάσαι με1

“so that they might catch and arrest me”

53911:33i8xarc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐν σαργάνῃ, ἐχαλάσθην1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “some people put me in a basket and lowered me to the ground” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

54011:33aw7drc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyτὰς χεῖρας αὐτοῦ1

Paul uses the governors hands as metonymy for the governor. Alternate translation: “from the governor” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

54112:introabcf0

2 Corinthians 12 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Paul continues defending his authority in this chapter.

When Paul was with the Corinthians, he proved himself to be an apostle by his powerful deeds. He had not ever taken anything from them. Now that he is coming for the third time, he will still not take anything. He hopes that when he visits, he will not need to be harsh with them. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/apostle]])

Special concepts in this chapter

Pauls vision

Paul now defends his authority by telling about a wonderful vision of heaven. Although he speaks in the third person in verses 2-5, verse 7 indicates that he was the person who experienced the vision. It was so great, God gave him a physical handicap to keep him humble. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/heaven]])

Third heaven

Many scholars believe the “third” heaven is the dwelling place of God. This is because Scripture also uses “heaven” to refer to the sky (the “first” heaven) and the universe (the “second” heaven).

Important figures of speech in this chapter

Rhetorical questions

Paul uses many rhetorical questions as he defends himself against his enemies who accused him: “For how were you less important than the rest of the churches, except that I was not a burden to you?” “Did Titus take advantage of you? Did we not walk in the same way? Did we not walk in the same steps?” and “Do you think all of this time we have been defending ourselves to you?” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

Sarcasm

Paul uses sarcasm, a special type of irony, when he reminds them how he had helped them at no cost. He says, “Forgive me for this wrong!” He also uses regular irony when he says: “But, since I am so crafty, I am the one who caught you by deceit.” He uses it to introduce his defense against this accusation by showing how impossible it was to be true. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Paradox

A “paradox” is a true statement that appears to describe something impossible. This sentence in verse 5 is a paradox: “I will not boast, except about my weaknesses.” Most people do not boast about being weak. This sentence in verse 10 is also a paradox: “For whenever I am weak, then I am strong.” In verse 9, Paul explains why both of these statements are true. (2 Corinthians 12:5)

54212:1iwn30

In defending his apostleship from God, Paul continues to state specific things that have happened to him since he became a believer.

54312:1iur3ἐλεύσομαι1

“I will continue talking, but now about”

54412:1rb42rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadysὀπτασίας καὶ ἀποκαλύψεις Κυρίου1

Possible meanings are (1) Paul uses the words “visions” and “revelations” to mean the same thing in hendiadys for emphasis. Alternate translation: “things that the Lord has allowed only me to see” or (2) Paul is speaking of two different things. Alternate translation: “secret things that the Lord has let me see with my eyes and other secrets that he has told me about” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])

54512:2cz7uοἶδα ἄνθρωπον ἐν Χριστῷ1

Paul is actually speaking of himself as if he were speaking of someone else, but this should be translated literally if possible.

54612:2fth2εἴτε ἐν σώματι οὐκ οἶδα, εἴτε ἐκτὸς τοῦ σώματος οὐκ οἶδα1

Paul continues to describe himself as if this happened to another person. “I do not know if this man was in his physical body or in his spiritual body”

54712:2k4awτρίτου οὐρανοῦ1

This refers to the dwelling place of God rather than the sky or outer space (the planets, stars, and the universe).

54812:3cju30

Paul continues to speak of himself as though he were speaking of someone else.

54912:4qv5hἡρπάγη εἰς τὸν Παράδεισον1

This continues Pauls account of what happened to “this man” (verse 3). It can be stated in active form. Possible meanings are (1) “God took this man … into paradise” or (2) “an angel took this man … into paradise.” If possible, it would be best not to name the one who took the man: “someone took … paradise” or “they took … paradise.”

55012:4wm7yἡρπάγη1

suddenly and forcefully held and taken

55112:4ic45τὸν Παράδεισον1

Possible meanings are (1) heaven or (2) the third heaven or (3) a special place in heaven.

55212:5hpq6τοῦ τοιούτου1

“of that person”

55312:5i12fοὐ καυχήσομαι, εἰ μὴ ἐν ταῖς ἀσθενείαις1

This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: “I will boast only of my weaknesses”

55412:6vg130

As Paul defends his apostleship from God, he tells of the weakness that God gave him to keep him humble.

55512:6p8fmμή τις εἰς ἐμὲ λογίσηται ὑπὲρ ὃ βλέπει με, ἢ ἀκούει ἐξ ἐμοῦ0

“no one will give me more credit than what he sees in me or hears from me”

55612:7v5s70

This verse reveals that Paul was speaking about himself beginning in 2 Corinthians 12:2.

55712:7xxi2καὶ τῇ ὑπερβολῇ τῶν ἀποκαλύψεων1

“because those revelations were so much greater than anything anyone else had ever seen”

55812:7hu8grc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐδόθη μοι σκόλοψ τῇ σαρκί1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God gave me a thorn in the flesh” or “God allowed me to have a thorn in the flesh” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

55912:7q5e7rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorσκόλοψ τῇ σαρκί1

Here Pauls physical problems are compared to a thorn piercing his flesh. Alternate translation: “ an affliction” or “a physical problem” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

56012:7q7lzἄγγελος Σατανᾶ1

“a servant of Satan”

56112:7ehp9ὑπεραίρωμαι2

“too proud”

56212:8n76pτρὶς1

Paul put these words at the beginning of the sentence to emphasize that he had prayed many times about his “thorn” (2 Corinthians 12:7).

56312:8wc7rὑπὲρ τούτου & τὸν Κύριον1

“Lord about this thorn in the flesh,” or “Lord about this affliction”

56412:9nr2jἀρκεῖ σοι ἡ χάρις μου1

“I will be kind to you, and that is all you need”

56512:9cs63ἡ γὰρ δύναμις ἐν ἀσθενείᾳ τελεῖται1

“for my power works best when you are weak”

56612:9g8mirc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐπισκηνώσῃ ἐπ’ ἐμὲ ἡ δύναμις τοῦ Χριστοῦ1

Paul speaks of Christs power as if it were a tent built over him. Possible meanings are (1) “people might see that I have the power of Christ” or (2) “I might truly have the power of Christ.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

56712:10pxf1εὐδοκῶ ἐν ἀσθενείαις, ἐν ὕβρεσιν, ἐν ἀνάγκαις, ἐν διωγμοῖς, καὶ στενοχωρίαις, ὑπὲρ Χριστοῦ1

Possible meanings are (1) “I am content in weakness, insults, troubles, persecutions, and distressing situations if these things come because I belong to Christ” or (2) “I am content in weakness … if these things cause more people to know Christ.”

56812:10s5sxἐν ἀσθενείαις1

“when I am weak”

56912:10xl8qἐν ὕβρεσιν1

“when people try to make me angry by saying that I am a bad person”

57012:10hza1ἐν ἀνάγκαις1

“when I am suffering”

57112:10c4t2στενοχωρίαις1

“when there is trouble”

57212:10t7qgὅταν γὰρ ἀσθενῶ, τότε δυνατός εἰμι1

Paul is saying that when he is no longer strong enough to do what needs to be done, Christ, who is more powerful than Paul could ever be, will work through Paul to do what needs to be done. However, it would be best to translate these words literally, if your language allows.

57312:11uph40

Paul reminds the believers in Corinth of the true signs of an apostle and of his humility before them to strengthen them.

57412:11a1ymγέγονα ἄφρων1

“I am acting like a fool”

57512:11pzw1ὑμεῖς με ἠναγκάσατε1

“You forced me to talk this way”

57612:11v2lrrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐγὼ & ὤφειλον ὑφ’ ὑμῶν συνίστασθαι1

This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “it is praise that you should have given me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

57712:11f644συνίστασθαι1

Possible meanings are (1) “praise” (2 Corinthians 3:1) or (2) “recommend” (2 Corinthians 4:2).

57812:11h4d5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesγὰρ ὑστέρησα1

By using the negative form, Paul is saying strongly that those Corinthians who think that he is inferior are wrong. Alternate translation: “For I am just as good as” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

57912:11s82xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ironyτῶν ὑπέρ λίαν ἀποστόλων1

Paul uses irony here to show that those teachers are less important then people say they are. See how this is translated in 2 Corinthians 11:5. Alternate translation: “those teachers whom some think are better than anyone else” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])

58012:12kp5lrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveτὰ μὲν σημεῖα τοῦ ἀποστόλου κατειργάσθη1

This can be stated in active form, with emphasis on the “signs.” Alternate translation: “It is the true signs of an apostle that I performed” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

58112:12mka5σημεῖα & σημείοις1

Use the same word both times.

58212:12d4umσημείοις τε, καὶ τέρασιν, καὶ δυνάμεσιν1

These are the “true signs of an apostle” that Paul performed “with complete patience.”

58312:13z35erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionτί γάρ ἐστιν ὃ ἡσσώθητε ὑπὲρ τὰς λοιπὰς ἐκκλησίας, εἰ μὴ ὅτι αὐτὸς ἐγὼ οὐ κατενάρκησα ὑμῶν?1

Paul is emphasizing that the Corinthians are wrong to accuse him of wanting to do them harm. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “I treated you the same way I treated all the other churches, except that … you.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

58412:13d426ἐγὼ οὐ κατενάρκησα ὑμῶν1

“I did not ask you for money or other things I needed”

58512:13sy7vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ironyχαρίσασθέ μοι τὴν ἀδικίαν ταύτην!1

Paul is being ironic to shame the Corinthians. Both he and they know that he has done them no wrong, but they have been treating him as though he has wronged them. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])

58612:13u1w9τὴν ἀδικίαν ταύτην1

not asking them for money and other things he needed

58712:14ugk1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicitἀλλὰ ὑμᾶς1

The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: “What I want is that you love and accept me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])

58812:14wd97οὐ & ὀφείλει τὰ τέκνα τοῖς γονεῦσιν θησαυρίζειν1

Young children are not responsible for saving money or other goods to give to their healthy parents.

58912:15vj2mrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorἐγὼ & ἥδιστα δαπανήσω καὶ ἐκδαπανηθήσομαι1

Paul speaks of his work and his physical life as if it were money that he or God could spend. Alternate translation: “I will gladly do any work and gladly allow God to permit people to kill me” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

59012:15nk8vrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymyὑπὲρ τῶν ψυχῶν ὑμῶν1

The word “souls” is a metonym for the people themselves. Alternate translation: “for you” or “so you will live well” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])

59112:15t3narc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionεἰ περισσοτέρως ὑμᾶς ἀγαπῶν, ἧσσον ἀγαπῶμαι?1

This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “If I love you so much, you should not love me so little.” or “If … much, you should love me more than you do.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

59212:15j887περισσοτέρως1

It is not clear what it is that Pauls love is “more” than. It is probably best to use “very much” or a “so much” that can be compared to “so little” later in the sentence.

59312:16ur5xrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-ironyἀλλὰ ὑπάρχων πανοῦργος δόλῳ, ὑμᾶς ἔλαβον1

Paul uses irony to shame the Corinthians who think he lied to them even if he did not ask them for money. Alternate translation: “but others think I was deceptive and used trickery” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])

59412:17vb7qrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionμή τινα ὧν ἀπέσταλκα πρὸς ὑμᾶς, δι’ αὐτοῦ ἐπλεονέκτησα ὑμᾶς?1

Both Paul and the Corinthians know the answer is no. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “No one that I sent to you has taken advantage of you!” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

59512:18pjl2rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionμήτι ἐπλεονέκτησεν ὑμᾶς Τίτος?1

Both Paul and the Corinthians know the answer is no. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “Titus did not take advantage of you.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

59612:18acg6rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionοὐ τῷ αὐτῷ πνεύματι περιεπατήσαμεν1

Paul speaks of living as if it were walking on a road. Both Paul and the Corinthians know the answer to the question is yes. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “We all have the same attitude and live alike.” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

59712:18k6b3rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionοὐ τοῖς αὐτοῖς ἴχνεσιν?1

Paul speaks of living as if it were walking on a road. Both Paul and the Corinthians know the answer to the question is yes. This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: “We all do things the same way.” (See: [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc:///ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

59812:19g1iwrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestionπάλαι δοκεῖτε ὅτι ὑμῖν ἀπολογούμεθα?1

Paul uses this question to acknowledge something that the people may have been thinking. He does this so that he can assure them that it is not true. Alternate translation: “Perhaps you think that all of this time we have been defending ourselves to you.” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

59912:19ih3erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorκατέναντι Θεοῦ1

Paul speaks of God knowing everything Paul does as if God were physically present and observed everything Paul said and did. Alternate translation: “Before God” or “With God as witness” or “In the presence of God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

60012:19vg3urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorὑπὲρ τῆς ὑμῶν οἰκοδομῆς1

“to strengthen you.” Paul speaks of knowing how to obey God and desiring to obey him as if it were physical growth. Alternate translation: “so that you would know God and obey him better” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

60112:20cu6sοὐχ οἵους θέλω, εὕρω ὑμᾶς1

“I may not like what I find” or “I may not like what I see you doing”

60212:20zy6gκἀγὼ εὑρεθῶ ὑμῖν οἷον οὐ θέλετε1

“you might not like what you see in me”

60312:20rh1hrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsμή πως ἔρις, ζῆλος, θυμοί, ἐριθεῖαι, καταλαλιαί, ψιθυρισμοί, φυσιώσεις, ἀκαταστασίαι1

The abstract nouns “quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, rivalries, slander, gossip, arrogance, and disorder” can be translated using verbs. Possible meanings are (1) “some of you will be arguing with us, jealous of us, suddenly becoming very angry with us, trying to take our places as leaders, speaking falsely about us, telling about our private lives, being proud, and opposing us as we try to lead you” or (2) “some of you will be arguing with each other, jealous of each other, suddenly becoming very angry with each other, quarreling with each other over who will be the leader, speaking falsely about each other, telling about each others private lives, being proud, and opposing those whom God has chosen to lead you” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

60412:21ddw3πενθήσω πολλοὺς τῶν προημαρτηκότων,1

“I will be grieved because many of them have not given up their old sins”

60512:21hq1erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelismμὴ μετανοησάντων ἐπὶ τῇ ἀκαθαρσίᾳ, καὶ πορνείᾳ, καὶ ἀσελγείᾳ1

Possible meanings are (1) Paul is saying almost the same thing three times for emphasis. Alternate translation: “did not stop commiting the sexual sins that they practiced” or (2) Paul is speaking of three different sins. (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])

60612:21rh22rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἐπὶ τῇ ἀκαθαρσίᾳ1

The abstract noun impurity can be translated as “things that do not please God.” Alternate translation: “of secretly thinking about and desiring things that do not please God” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

60712:21rn6urc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἐπὶ τῇ & πορνείᾳ1

The abstract noun “immorality” can be translated as “immoral deeds.” Alternate translation: “of doing sexually immoral deeds” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

60812:21yyr5rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnounsἐπὶ τῇ & ἀσελγείᾳ1

The abstract noun “indulgence” can be translated using a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “of … doing things that satisfy immoral sexual desire” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])

60913:introabcg0

2 Corinthians 13 General Notes

Structure and formatting

In this chapter, Paul finishes defending his authority. He then concludes the letter with a final greeting and blessing.

Special concepts in this chapter

Preparation

Paul instructs the Corinthians as he prepares to visit them. He is hoping to avoid needing to discipline anyone in the church so he can visit them joyfully. (See: [[rc://*/tw/dict/bible/kt/disciple]])

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Power and weakness

Paul repeatedly uses the contrasting words “power” and “weakness” in this chapter. The translator should use words that are understood to be opposites of each other.

“Examine yourselves to see if you are in the faith. Test yourselves.”

Scholars are divided over what these sentences mean. Some scholars say that Christians are to test themselves to see whether their actions align with their Christian faith. The context favors this understanding. Others say these sentences mean that Christians should look at their actions and question whether they are genuinely saved. (See: [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]] and [[rc:///tw/dict/bible/kt/save]])

61013:1y8fz0

Paul establishes that Christ is speaking through him and that Paul is wanting to restore them, encourage them, and unify them.

61113:1slj1rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐπὶ στόματος δύο μαρτύρων καὶ τριῶν σταθήσεται πᾶν ῥῆμα1

This can be stated as active. Alternate translation: “Believe that someone has done something wrong only after two or three people have said the same thing” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

61213:2fxl6τοῖς λοιποῖς πᾶσιν1

“all you other people”

61313:4a1bfrc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassiveἐσταυρώθη1

This can be made active. Alternate translation: “they crucified him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])

61413:4zeh1ἀλλὰ ζήσομεν σὺν αὐτῷ ἐκ δυνάμεως Θεοῦ1

God gives us the power and ability to live life in and with him.

61513:5sbx4ἐν ὑμῖν1

Possible meanings are (1) living inside each individual or (2) “among you,” part of and the most important member of the group.

61613:7u75erc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotesμὴ ποιῆσαι ὑμᾶς κακὸν μηδέν1

“that you will not sin at all” or “that you will not refuse to listen to us when we correct you.” Paul is emphasizing the opposite with his statement. Alternate translation: “that you will do everything right” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])

61713:7gt2eδόκιμοι1

“to be great teachers and live the truth”

61813:8a3l7οὐ & δυνάμεθά τι κατὰ τῆς ἀληθείας1

“we are not able to keep people from learning the truth”

61913:8bt3cτῆς ἀληθείας, ἀλλὰ ὑπὲρ τῆς ἀληθείας2

“truth; everything we do will enable people to learn the truth”

62013:9vt7bτὴν ὑμῶν κατάρτισιν1

“may become spiritually mature”

62113:10rlm8rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphorεἰς οἰκοδομὴν καὶ οὐκ εἰς καθαίρεσιν.1

Paul speaks of helping the Corinthians to know Christ better as if he were constructing a building. See how you translated a similar phrase in 2 Corinthians 10:8. Alternate translation: “to help you become better followers of Christ and not to discourage you so you stop following him” (See: [[rc://*/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])

62213:11uk1p0

Paul closes his letter to the Corinthian believers.

62313:11fm8mκαταρτίζεσθε1

“Work toward maturity”

62413:11diw1τὸ αὐτὸ φρονεῖτε1

“live in harmony with one another”

62513:12p1nhἐν ἁγίῳ φιλήματι1

“with Christian love”

62613:12x2qdοἱ ἅγιοι1

“those whom God has set apart for himself”