For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart.
Read it in contextThe ministry of reconciliation
Start reading at 2 Corinthians 5:11 (2 Corinthians 5:11 to 2 Corinthians 5:21).
An editorial reading unit, not a claim that the surrounding context stops here. Book background below applies to the shared passage; individual verses may need more specific explanation.
Christ's love explains Paul's ministry, which calls people to reconciliation with God and describes life in Christ as a new creation.
5:11Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.
5:12For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart.
5:13For whether we be beside ourselves, it is to God: or whether we be sober, it is for your cause.
5:14For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:
5:15And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.
5:16Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more.
5:17Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
5:18And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;
5:19To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.
5:20Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.
5:21For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
Study content, not yet reviewed.
Who
Who wrote the book? Paul the apostle is the principal author; Timothy is named with him in the greeting. Biblical references: 2 Corinthians 1:1. stated in the text
Who was present or being addressed in this passage? In the surrounding chapter context (2 Corinthians 1:1–7:16): Paul addresses the Corinthian believers about his afflictions, ministry, changed travel plans, and their response to his earlier painful dealings, as reported by Titus. stated in the text
Who was the book written to? The church of God at Corinth and all the saints throughout Achaia. Biblical references: 2 Corinthians 1:1. stated in the text
What
What is the topic of this reading unit? The ministry of reconciliation. Read 2 Corinthians 5:11 through 2 Corinthians 5:21 as a connected unit. interpretation
How does it contribute to the book? Christ's love explains Paul's ministry, which calls people to reconciliation with God and describes life in Christ as a new creation. interpretation
When
When are the events or message set? The letter reflects earlier exchanges, changed travel plans, and a collection in progress. A precise date requires reconstruction beyond a dated statement in the letter. book background
Where
What is the book’s geographic setting? Corinth and the saints in Achaia are addressed; Macedonia and other ministry locations appear in the account. book background
Where does the context start?
This passage sits in The ministry of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:11 to 2 Corinthians 5:21).
Start reading at 2 Corinthians 5:11. An editorial reading unit, not a claim that the surrounding context stops here. Book background below applies to the shared passage; individual verses may need more specific explanation.
How
How does this book connect with Jesus Christ? Paul explains ministry through the death and life of Jesus, reconciliation in Christ, and power displayed in weakness. These themes do not make suffering proof that every minister's claim is valid. See 2 Corinthians 4:5, 2 Corinthians 4:10, 2 Corinthians 5:19, 2 Corinthians 12:9. interpretation
How should this book guide our response? Practice integrity, generosity, and openness to correction. Assess ministry by faithfulness to Christ rather than outward impressiveness alone. interpretation
Cross references from CrossReferences-org (CC BY 4.0).
Macro-Structure
See how this passage fits the chapter and the book.
2 Corinthians 5
Prefilled outline, not yet reviewed.
Paul and Timothy address the church of God at Corinth and the saints in Achaia. The letter explains Paul's ministry and suffering, appeals for reconciliation and generosity, and confronts challenges to his apostolic service.
Connection to the wholePaul speaks of longing, confidence, and the aim to please the Lord, joining hope beyond death with appearance before Christ's judgment seat.
Connection to the wholeChrist's love explains Paul's ministry, which calls people to reconciliation with God and describes life in Christ as a new creation.
interpretation
Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.
2 Corinthians
Prefilled outline, not yet reviewed.
Paul and Timothy address the church of God at Corinth and the saints in Achaia. The letter explains Paul's ministry and suffering, appeals for reconciliation and generosity, and confronts challenges to his apostolic service.
Connection to the wholePaul describes comfort in affliction and explains his dealings with Corinth, including forgiveness and his concern over the church's response.
Connection to the wholePaul explains the character of his ministry and appeals to the Corinthians, ending with relief over their response to his correction.
Connection to the wholeThe example of other believers and of Christ supports an appeal for willing, responsible giving that supplies need and results in thanksgiving.
Connection to the wholePaul answers his opponents, explains strength in weakness, and prepares the church for a visit marked by accountability and restoration.
interpretation
Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.