2CO front intro ur4j 0 # Introduction to 2 Corinthians<br>## Part 1: General Introduction<br><br>#### Outline of the Book of 2 Corinthians<br><br>1. Paul thanks God for the Corinthian Christians (1:1-11)<br>1. Paul explains his conduct and his ministry (1:12-7:16)<br>1. Paul speaks about contributing money for the Jerusalem church (8:1-9:15)<br>1. Paul defends his authority as an apostle (10:1-13:10)<br>1. Paul gives final greetings and encouragement (13:11-14)<br><br>#### Who wrote the Book of 2 Corinthians?<br><br>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.<br><br>Paul started the church in Corinth. He was staying in the city of Ephesus when he wrote this letter.<br><br>#### What is the Book of 2 Corinthians about?<br><br>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.<br><br>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.<br><br>#### How should the title of this book be translated?<br><br>Translators may choose to call this book by its traditional title, "Second Corinthians." Or they may choose a clearer title, such as "Paul's Second Letter to the Church in Corinth." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])<br><br>## Part 2: Important Religious and Cultural Concepts<br><br>#### What was the city of Corinth like?<br><br>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.<br><br>#### What did Paul mean by "false apostles" (11:13)?<br><br>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.<br><br>## Part 3: Important Translation Issues<br><br>#### Singular and plural "you"<br><br>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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-you]])<br><br>#### How are the ideas of "holy" and "sanctify" represented in 2 Corinthians in the ULT?<br><br>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:<br><br>* 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."<br><br>* The meaning in most passages in 2 Corinthians is a simpl
2CO 01 intro tsh3 0 # 2 Corinthians 01 General Notes<br>#### Structure and formatting<br><br>The first paragraph reflects a common way to begin a letter in the ancient Near East.<br><br>#### Special Concepts<br><br>##### Paul's integrity<br>People were criticizing Paul and saying he was not sincere. He refutes them by explaining his motives for what he was doing.<br><br>##### Comfort<br>Comfort is a major theme of this chapter. The Holy Spirit comforts Christians. The Corinthians probably were afflicted and needed to be comforted.<br><br>#### Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>##### Rhetorical question<br><br>Paul uses two rhetorical questions to defend himself against a charge of not being sincere. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])<br><br>#### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>##### We<br>Paul uses the pronoun "we". This likely represents at least Timothy and himself. It may also include other people.<br><br>##### Guarantee<br><br>Paul says the Holy Spirit is the guarantee, which means pledge or down-payment, of a Christian's eternal life. Christians are securely saved. But they will not experience all of God's 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://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/eternity]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]])<br>
2CO 01 01 epd2 0 General Information: After Paul's 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.
2CO 01 01 mel3 0 Paul ... to the church of God that is in Corinth 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"
2CO 01 01 f59u 0 Timothy our brother This indicates that both Paul and the Corinthians knew Timothy and considered him to be their spiritual brother.
2CO 01 01 mhg5 translate-names 0 Achaia This is the name of a Roman province in the southern part of modern-day Greece. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2CO 01 02 f6k1 0 May grace be to you and peace This is a common greeting that Paul uses in his letters.
2CO 01 03 px2q figs-activepassive 0 May the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ be praised This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "May we always praise the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 01 03 k7dl 0 the God and Father "God, who is the Father"
2CO 01 03 pg4a figs-parallelism 0 the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort These two phrases express the same idea in two different ways. Both phrases refer to God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2CO 01 03 blv4 0 the Father of mercies and the God of all comfort 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."
2CO 01 04 n2lc figs-inclusive 0 comforts us in all our affliction Here "us" and "our" include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])
2CO 01 05 nn5a figs-metaphor 0 For just as the sufferings of Christ abound for our sake Paul speaks of Christ's sufferings as if they were objects that could increase in number. Alternate translation: "For just as Christ suffered greatly for our sake" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 01 05 i254 0 the sufferings of Christ 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.
2CO 01 05 tg9w figs-metaphor 0 our comfort abounds Paul speaks of comfort as if it were an object that could increase in size. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 01 06 y9bi figs-exclusive 0 But if we are afflicted 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 01 06 wyj4 figs-activepassive 0 if we are comforted This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "if God comforts us" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 01 06 cfq7 0 Your comfort is working effectively "You experience effective comfort"
2CO 01 08 jqn8 figs-litotes 0 we do not want you to be uninformed This can be stated in positive terms. Alternate translation: "we want you to know" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
2CO 01 08 pr8a figs-metaphor 0 We were so completely crushed beyond our strength Paul and Timothy refer to their emotions of despair being like a heavy weight they have to carry. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 01 08 gu5b figs-activepassive 0 We were so completely crushed 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 01 09 lks3 figs-metaphor 0 we had the sentence of death on us 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 01 09 i7up figs-ellipsis 0 but instead in God The words "put our trust" are left out of this phrase. Alternate translation: "but instead, to put our trust in God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2CO 01 09 bu2y figs-idiom 0 who raises the dead 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2CO 01 10 x4kh figs-metaphor 0 a deadly peril 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 01 10 mwn9 0 he will continue to deliver us "he will continue to rescue us"
2CO 01 11 q17d 0 He will do this as you also help us "God will rescue us from danger as you, the people of the church of Corinth, also help us"
2CO 01 11 k1fl figs-activepassive 0 the gracious favor given to us This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the gracious favor which God has given to us" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 01 12 kqv3 figs-exclusive 0 General Information: 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
2CO 01 12 r9p8 0 We are proud of this The word "proud" here is used in the positive sense of feeling great satisfaction and joy in something.
2CO 01 12 c7mu figs-personification 0 Our conscience testifies 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
2CO 01 12 c1bd figs-metonymy 0 not relying on fleshly wisdom but on the grace of God. Here "fleshly" represents human. Alternate translation: "We have not relied on human wisdom but on the grace of God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2CO 01 13 h21j figs-doublenegatives 0 We write to you nothing that you cannot read and understand This can be stated in positive terms. Alternate translation: "You can read and understand everything we write to you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
2CO 01 14 ma5m 0 your reason for boasting The word "boasting" here is used in the positive sense of feeling great satisfaction and joy in something.
2CO 01 15 nhq8 0 General Information: Paul wrote at least 3 letters to the Corinthians. Only 2 letters to Corinth are recorded in the Bible.
2CO 01 15 k1u9 0 Connecting Statement: Paul explains his sincere expectation with pure motives to come see the believers in Corinth after his first letter.
2CO 01 15 n5ex 0 Because I was confident about this The word "this" refers to Paul's previous comments about the Corinthians.
2CO 01 15 y432 0 you might receive the benefit of two visits "you might benefit from me visiting you twice"
2CO 01 16 mp6u 0 send me on my way to Judea "assist me on my way to Judea"
2CO 01 17 zms7 figs-rquestion 0 was I hesitating? 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2CO 01 17 chy9 figs-rquestion 0 Do I plan things according to human standards ... at the same time? 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2CO 01 17 y41z figs-explicit 0 Do I plan things ... so that I say "Yes, yes" and "No, no" at the same time? 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2CO 01 19 z4he figs-explicit 0 For the Son of God ... is not "Yes" and "No." Instead, he is always "Yes." 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 God's promises. Instead, he always says 'Yes.'" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 01 19 hd2t guidelines-sonofgodprinciples 0 the Son of God This is an important title for Jesus that describes his relationship to God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/guidelines-sonofgodprinciples]])
2CO 01 20 h2xc figs-explicit 0 all the promises of God are "Yes" in him This means that Jesus guarantees all of God's promises. Alternate translation: "all the promises of God are guaranteed in Jesus Christ" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 01 20 h4uv 0 "Yes" in him ... through him we say The word "him" refers to Jesus Christ.
2CO 01 21 d3s3 0 God who confirms us with you 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."
2CO 01 21 tjc6 0 he anointed us Possible meanings are 1) "he sent us to preach the gospel" or 2) "he chose us to be his people."
2CO 01 22 z43l figs-metaphor 0 he set his seal on us 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 01 22 xe98 figs-metonymy 0 gave us the Spirit in our hearts 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2CO 01 22 jcv7 figs-metaphor 0 the Spirit ... as a guarantee The Spirit is spoken of as if he was a partial downpayment toward eternal life. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 01 23 j8lc 0 I call God to bear witness for me 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"
2CO 01 23 j15t 0 so that I might spare you "so that I might not cause you more suffering"
2CO 01 24 cyu4 0 we are working with you for your joy "we are working with you so that you may have joy"
2CO 01 24 cih8 figs-idiom 0 stand in your faith The word "stand" can refer to something that does not change. Alternate translation: "remain firm in your faith" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2CO 02 intro hy3h 0 # 2 Corinthians 02 General Notes<br>#### Special Concepts<br><br>##### Harsh writing<br>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://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/grace]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br><br>#### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>##### Aroma<br>A sweet aroma is a pleasing smell. Scripture often describes things that are pleasing to God as having a pleasing aroma.<br>
2CO 02 01 wh9c 0 Connecting Statement: 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.
2CO 02 01 x9s5 0 I decided for my own part "I made the decision"
2CO 02 01 ij73 0 in painful circumstances "in circumstances that would cause you pain"
2CO 02 02 nb6x figs-rquestion 0 If I caused you pain, who could cheer me up but the very one who was hurt by me? 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2CO 02 02 x2vr figs-activepassive 0 the very one who was hurt by me This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the very one whom I had hurt" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 02 03 kxu2 figs-explicit 0 I wrote as I did 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 02 03 v87i figs-activepassive 0 I might not be hurt by those who should have made me rejoice 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 02 03 i5r6 0 my joy is the same joy you all have "what gives me joy is what gives you joy, too"
2CO 02 04 uch7 0 from great affliction Here the word "affliction" refers to emotional pain.
2CO 02 04 vs7m figs-metonymy 0 with anguish of heart Here the word "heart" refers to the location of the emotions. Alternate translation: "with extreme sorrow" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2CO 02 04 d5vf 0 with many tears "with much crying"
2CO 02 06 iy4r figs-activepassive 0 This punishment of that person by the majority is enough 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2CO 02 06 a7c4 0 is enough "is sufficient"
2CO 02 07 vpx1 figs-activepassive 0 he is not overwhelmed by too much sorrow 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 02 08 r916 0 Connecting Statement: 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.
2CO 02 08 yi2z 0 publicly affirm your love for him This means that they are to confirm their love for this man in the presence of all of the believers.
2CO 02 09 xw5t figs-explicit 0 you are obedient in everything 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 02 10 lzp6 figs-activepassive 0 it is forgiven for your sake This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "I have forgiven it for your sake" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 02 10 cbm6 0 forgiven for your sake Possible meanings are 1) "forgiven out of my love for you" or 2) "forgiven for your benefit."
2CO 02 11 m46t figs-litotes 0 For we are not ignorant of his plans Paul uses a negative expression to emphasize the opposite. Alternate translation: "For we know his plans well" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
2CO 02 12 l6vd 0 Connecting Statement: Paul encourages the believers in Corinth by telling them of the opportunities he has had to preach the gospel in Troas and Macedonia.
2CO 02 12 a1ti figs-metaphor 0 A door was opened to me by the Lord ... to preach the gospel 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 02 13 rjy9 0 I had no relief in my spirit "My mind was troubled" or "I was worried"
2CO 02 13 xd5h 0 my brother Titus Paul speaks of Titus as his spiritual brother.
2CO 02 13 wq6j 0 So I left them "So I left the people of Troas"
2CO 02 14 gpd2 figs-metaphor 0 God, who in Christ always leads us in triumph 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 02 14 l1nr figs-metaphor 0 Through us he spreads the sweet aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 02 14 eq21 0 he spreads ... everywhere "he spreads ... everywhere we go"
2CO 02 15 x6nn figs-metaphor 0 we are to God the sweet aroma of Christ Paul speaks of his ministry as if it were a burnt offering that someone offers to God. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 02 15 b1k1 0 the sweet aroma of Christ Possible meanings are 1) "the sweet aroma which is the knowledge of Christ" or 2) "the sweet aroma that Christ offers."
2CO 02 15 itc8 figs-activepassive 0 those who are saved This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "those whom God has saved" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 02 16 dwk6 figs-metaphor 0 it is an aroma "the knowledge of Christ is an aroma." This refers back to [2 Corinthians 2:14](../02/14.md), where Paul speaks of the knowledge of Christ as if it were incense that has a pleasing smell. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 02 16 ud2u figs-doublet 0 an aroma from death to death 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2CO 02 16 v2n3 figs-activepassive 0 the ones being saved This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the ones whom God is saving" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 02 16 cdr3 figs-doublet 0 aroma from life to life 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2CO 02 16 be6x figs-rquestion 0 Who is worthy of these things? 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2CO 02 17 a5sa figs-metonymy 0 who sell the word of God "Word" here is a metonym for "message." Alternate translation: "who sell God's message" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2CO 02 17 x86y 0 purity of motives "pure motives"
2CO 02 17 u2zb 0 we speak in Christ "we speak as people who are joined to Christ" or "we speak with the authority of Christ"
2CO 02 17 yg3k figs-activepassive 0 as we are sent from God This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "as people whom God has sent" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 02 17 q4dc figs-ellipsis 0 in the sight of God 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2CO 03 intro f7rh 0 # 2 Corinthians 03 General Notes<br>#### Structure and formatting<br><br>Paul continues his defense. Paul views the Corinthian Christians as the proof of his work.<br><br>#### Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>##### Law of Moses<br>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://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/covenant]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/reveal]])<br><br>#### Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>##### Metaphors<br>Paul uses many metaphors used in this chapter to explain complex spiritual truths. It is unclear whether this makes Paul's teachings easier or more difficult to understand. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>#### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>##### "This is a covenant not of the letter but of the Spirit."<br>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://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/spirit]])<br>
2CO 03 01 um8x figs-rquestion 0 Are we beginning to praise ourselves again? 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2CO 03 01 y8yc figs-rquestion 0 We do not need letters of recommendation to you or from you, like some people, do we? Paul says this to express that the Corinthians already know about Paul and Timothy's 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2CO 03 01 ad1u 0 letters of recommendation This is a letter that a person writes to introduce and give their approval of someone else.
2CO 03 02 ty59 figs-metaphor 0 You yourselves are our letter of recommendation Paul speaks of the Corinthians as if they are a letter of recommendation. That they have become believers serves to validate Paul's ministry to others. Alternate translation: "You yourselves are like our letter of recommendation" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 03 02 v2e7 figs-metonymy 0 written on our hearts 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2CO 03 02 bu1u figs-activepassive 0 written on our hearts This can be stated in active form with "Christ" as the implied subject. Alternate translation: "which Christ has written on our hearts" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 03 02 dr5k figs-activepassive 0 known and read by all people This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that all people can know and read" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 03 03 s717 figs-metaphor 0 you are a letter from Christ Paul clarifies that Christ is the one who has written the letter. Alternate translation: "you are a letter that Christ has written" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 03 03 wrk4 0 delivered by us "brought by us"
2CO 03 03 q96q 0 It was written not with ink ... on tablets of human hearts Paul clarifies that the Corinthians are like a spiritual letter, not like a letter that humans write with physical objects.
2CO 03 03 qt5g figs-activepassive 0 It was written not with ink but by the Spirit of the living God 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2CO 03 03 t5ah figs-activepassive 0 It was not written on tablets of stone, but on tablets of human hearts 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2CO 03 03 u959 figs-metaphor 0 tablets of human hearts Paul speaks of their hearts as if they are flat pieces of stone or clay upon which people engraved letters. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 03 04 z7qx 0 this is the confidence This refers to what Paul has just said. His confidence comes from knowing that the Corinthians are the validation of his ministry before God.
2CO 03 05 qye9 0 competent in ourselves "qualified in ourselves" or "sufficient in ourselves"
2CO 03 05 e5e7 figs-explicit 0 to claim anything as coming from us Here the word "anything" refers to anything pertaining to Paul's apostolic ministry. Alternate translation: "to claim that anything we have done in ministry comes from our own efforts" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 03 05 wi1t 0 our competence is from God "God gives us our sufficiency"
2CO 03 06 dp6i figs-synecdoche 0 a covenant not of the letter 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 03 06 tc4u figs-ellipsis 0 but of the Spirit The Holy Spirit is the one who establishes God's covenant with people. Alternate translation: "but a covenant based on what the Spirit does" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2CO 03 06 q4at figs-personification 0 the letter kills 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 03 07 lyf7 0 Connecting Statement: 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.
2CO 03 07 ut6r figs-irony 0 Now the service that produced death ... came in such glory Paul emphasizes that although the law leads to death, it was still very glorious. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
2CO 03 07 du65 figs-explicit 0 the service that produced "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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 03 07 j1hp figs-activepassive 0 engraved in letters on stones "carved into stone with letters." This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that God carved into stone with letters" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 03 07 r5p5 0 in such glory "in so much glory"
2CO 03 07 y11c 0 This is because "They could not look because"
2CO 03 08 xxn6 figs-rquestion 0 How much more glorious will be the service that the Spirit does? 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2CO 03 08 wq1v figs-explicit 0 the service that the Spirit does "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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 03 09 k779 figs-explicit 0 the service of condemnation "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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 03 09 if33 figs-exclamations 0 how much more does the service of righteousness abound in glory! 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]])
2CO 03 09 e5zz figs-metaphor 0 the service of righteousness abound in glory 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 03 09 ufq6 figs-explicit 0 the service of righteousness "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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 03 10 n4pe 0 that which was once made glorious is no longer glorious ... because of the glory that exceeds it The Old Testament law no longer appears glorious when compared with the new covenant, which is much more glorious.
2CO 03 10 t2dq figs-activepassive 0 that which was once made glorious This can be stated in active form. AT "the law which God once made glorious" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 03 10 d7k5 0 in this respect "in this way"
2CO 03 11 zwb2 figs-metaphor 0 that which was passing away 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 03 12 tnc1 0 Since we have such a hope This refers to what Paul has just said. His hope comes from knowing that the new covenant has an eternal glory.
2CO 03 12 u5qa 0 such a hope "such confidence"
2CO 03 13 p5u2 figs-explicit 0 the ending of a glory that was passing away The refers to the glory that shined on Moses' face. Alternate translation: "the glory on Moses' face as it faded away completely" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 03 14 zvf5 figs-metaphor 0 But their minds were closed "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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 03 14 zm7j 0 For to this day to the time at which Paul was writing to the Corinthians
2CO 03 14 w68p figs-metaphor 0 when they read the old covenant, that same veil remains 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 03 14 gg2d 0 when they read the old covenant "when they hear someone read the old covenant"
2CO 03 14 gl8l figs-activepassive 0 It has not been removed, because only in Christ is it taken away 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 03 15 rjh5 0 But even today This phrase refer to the time at which Paul was writing to the Corinthians.
2CO 03 15 t3dl figs-metonymy 0 whenever Moses is read 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 03 15 gwp9 figs-metonymy 0 a veil covers their hearts 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 03 16 k2dr figs-metaphor 0 when a person turns to the Lord 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 03 16 w1y2 figs-activepassive 0 the veil is taken away 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 03 18 r6rx figs-inclusive 0 Now all of us Here the word "us" refers to all believers, including Paul and the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])
2CO 03 18 l3xw figs-metaphor 0 with unveiled faces, see the glory of the Lord Unlike the Israelites who could not see God's glory reflected on Moses' face because he had covered it with a veil, there is nothing to prevent believers from seeing and understanding God's glory. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 03 18 rc9x figs-activepassive 0 We are being transformed into the same glorious likeness 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 03 18 bx5b 0 from one degree of glory into another "from one amount of glory to another amount of glory." This means that the Spirit is constantly increasing the glory of believers.
2CO 03 18 mw3v 0 just as from the Lord "just as this comes from the Lord"
2CO 04 intro rx1c 0 # 2 Corinthians 04 General Notes<br>#### Structure and formatting<br>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.<br><br>#### Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>##### Ministry<br><br>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://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/spirit]])<br><br>#### Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>##### Light and darkness<br><br>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://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]])<br><br>##### Life and death<br>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://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/life]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/death]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])<br><br>#### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>##### Hope<br>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://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/hope]])<br>
2CO 04 01 lyi4 0 Connecting Statement: 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.
2CO 04 01 ix7n figs-exclusive 0 we have this ministry Here the word "we" refers to Paul and his coworker, but not to the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
2CO 04 01 h1ud figs-explicit 0 and just as we have received mercy 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 04 02 yp4g 0 we have rejected secret and shameful ways This means that 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.
2CO 04 02 z4c2 figs-hendiadys 0 secret and shameful ways 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
2CO 04 02 ey75 0 live by craftiness "live by deception"
2CO 04 02 gp3g figs-doublenegatives 0 we do not mishandle the word of God "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 God's message" or "we use the word of God correctly" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2CO 04 02 aj24 0 we recommend ourselves to everyone's conscience This means that they provide enough evidence for each person who hears them to decide whether they are right or wrong.
2CO 04 02 f6n1 figs-metaphor 0 in the sight of God This refers to God's presence. God's understanding and approval of Paul's truthfulness is referred to as God being able to see them. Alternate translation: "before God" or "with God as witness" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 04 03 mti5 figs-metaphor 0 But if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled only to those who are perishing This refers back to what Paul said starting in [2 Corinthians 3:14](../03/14.md). 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 04 03 hz2f figs-activepassive 0 if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "if a veil covers our gospel, that veil covers it" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 04 03 e5yu 0 our gospel "the gospel that we preach"
2CO 04 04 r6pz figs-metaphor 0 the god of this world has blinded their unbelieving minds 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 04 04 tx9h 0 the god of this world "the god who rules this world." This phrase refers to Satan.
2CO 04 04 z4yp figs-metaphor 0 they are not able to see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ As the Israelites could not see God's glory that shined on Moses' face because he covered it with a veil ([2 Corinthians 3:13](../03/13.md)), unbelievers are not able to see Christ's glory that shines in the gospel. This means that they are unable to understand "the gospel of the glory of Christ" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 04 04 j1vz 0 the light of the gospel "the light that comes from the gospel"
2CO 04 04 rdj3 0 the gospel of the glory of Christ "the gospel about the Christ's glory"
2CO 04 05 ddw1 figs-ellipsis 0 but Christ Jesus as Lord, and ourselves as your servants 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2CO 04 05 t8du 0 for Jesus' sake "because of Jesus"
2CO 04 06 rw5z 0 Light will shine out of darkness With this sentence, Paul refers to God creating light, as described in the book of Genesis.
2CO 04 06 d5x7 figs-metaphor 0 He has shone ... to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 04 06 bj1j figs-metonymy 0 in our hearts Here the word "hearts" refers to the mind and thoughts. Alternate translation: "in our minds" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2CO 04 06 mpg9 0 the light of the knowledge of the glory of God "the light, which is the knowledge of the glory of God"
2CO 04 06 p736 figs-metaphor 0 the glory of God in the presence of Jesus Christ "the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ." Just as God's glory shone upon Moses' face ([2 Corinthians 3:7](../03/07.md)), it also shines upon Jesus face. This means that when Paul preaches the gospel, people are able to see and understand the message about God's glory. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 04 07 xe5i figs-exclusive 0 But we have Here the word "we" refers to Paul and his coworkers, but not to the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
2CO 04 07 xx2c figs-metaphor 0 we have this treasure in jars of clay 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 04 07 t225 0 so that it is clear "so that it is clear to people" or "so that people clearly know"
2CO 04 08 ga9z figs-activepassive 0 We are afflicted in every way This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "People afflict us in every way" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 04 09 bz8m figs-activepassive 0 We are persecuted but not forsaken This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "People persecute us but God does not forsake us" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 04 09 uvq1 figs-activepassive 0 We are struck down but not destroyed This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "People strike us down but do not destroy us" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 04 09 z8np 0 We are struck down "We are hurt badly"
2CO 04 10 zt4b figs-metaphor 0 We always carry in our body the death of Jesus 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 04 10 l6f6 0 the life of Jesus also may be shown in our bodies 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."
2CO 04 10 w3jc figs-activepassive 0 the life of Jesus also may be shown in our bodies This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "other people may see the life of Jesus in our bodies" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 04 11 ht74 figs-metaphor 0 We who are alive are always carrying around in our body the death of Jesus 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 04 11 d1wm 0 so that the life of Jesus may be shown in our body 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](../04/10.md).
2CO 04 11 ww5r figs-activepassive 0 so that the life of Jesus may be shown in our body This can be stated in active form. See how you translated this phrase in [2 Corinthians 4:10](../04/10.md). Alternate translation: "so other people may see the life of Jesus in our body" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 04 12 q3il figs-personification 0 death is at work in us, but life is at work in you 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
2CO 04 13 ret6 0 the same spirit of faith "the same attitude of faith." Here the word "spirit" refers a person's attitude and temperament.
2CO 04 13 gzf4 figs-activepassive 0 according to that which was written This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "as the one who wrote these words" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 04 13 il5h 0 I believed, and so I spoke This is a quote from the Psalms.
2CO 04 14 t2i8 figs-idiom 0 that the one who raised the Lord Jesus will 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2CO 04 15 v7sj 0 Everything is for your sake Here the word "everything" refers to all of the sufferings that Paul has described in previous verses.
2CO 04 15 l1mu figs-activepassive 0 as grace is spread to many people This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "as God spreads his grace to many people" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 04 15 u8pp figs-metaphor 0 thanksgiving may increase 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 04 16 u6e5 0 Connecting Statement: Paul writes that the Corinthian difficulties are minor and do not last long when compared to the unseen eternal things.
2CO 04 16 cb92 figs-doublenegatives 0 So we do not become discouraged This can be stated as a positive. Alternate translation: "So we remain confident" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
2CO 04 16 hhv6 figs-explicit 0 outwardly we are wasting away This refers to their physical bodies decaying and dying. Alternate translation: "our physical bodies are getting weak and dying" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 04 16 s9b2 figs-explicit 0 inwardly we are being renewed day by day This refers to their inward, spiritual lives getting stronger. Alternate translation: "our spiritual beings are being strengthened day by day" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 04 16 zct5 figs-activepassive 0 inwardly we are being renewed day by day This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God is renewing our inward being more each day" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 04 17 pd63 figs-metaphor 0 this momentary, light affliction is preparing us for an eternal weight of glory 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 04 17 na9y figs-metaphor 0 that exceeds all measurement 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 04 18 t2fp figs-activepassive 0 things that are seen ... things that are unseen This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "things that we can see ... things that we cannot see" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 04 18 f97x figs-ellipsis 0 but for things that are unseen You can supply the verb for this phrase. AT "but we are watching for things that are unseen" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2CO 05 intro s14p 0 # 2 Corinthians 05 General Notes<br>#### Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>##### New bodies in heaven<br>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://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/goodnews]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/reconcile]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]])<br><br>##### New creation<br><br>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://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]])<br><br>#### Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>##### Home<br>The Christian's home is no longer in the world. A Christian's real home is in heaven. By using this metaphor, Paul emphasizes that the Christian's circumstances in this world are temporary. It gives hope to those who are suffering. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/heaven]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/hope]])<br><br>#### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>##### "The message of reconciliation"<br>This refers to the gospel. Paul calls for people who are hostile to God to repent and be reconciled to him. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/reconcile]])<br>
2CO 05 01 z4vs figs-metaphor 0 if the earthly dwelling that we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God Here a temporary "earthly dwelling" is a metaphor for a person's 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 05 01 zy2k figs-activepassive 0 if the earthly dwelling that we live in is destroyed 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 05 01 bqi5 figs-activepassive 0 It is a house not made by human hands 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2CO 05 02 tc2j 0 in this tent we groan 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.
2CO 05 02 ss6g figs-metaphor 0 longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 05 03 i4es 0 by putting it on "by putting on our heavenly dwelling"
2CO 05 03 ap7v figs-activepassive 0 we will not be found to be naked This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "we will not be naked" or "God will not find us naked" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 05 04 bz6k figs-metaphor 0 while we are in this tent Paul speaks of the physical body as if it were a "tent." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 05 04 e34b 0 in this tent, we groan 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](../05/02.md).
2CO 05 04 cjt4 figs-metaphor 0 being burdened Paul refers to the difficulties that the physical body experiences as if they were heavy objects that are difficult to carry. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 05 04 f8rb figs-metaphor 0 We do not want to be unclothed ... we want to be clothed 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 05 04 n78p 0 to be unclothed "to be without clothes" or "to be naked"
2CO 05 04 de2b figs-metaphor 0 so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 05 04 e5zi figs-activepassive 0 so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "so that life may swallow up what is mortal" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 05 05 g7yj figs-metaphor 0 who gave us the Spirit as a guarantee of what is to come 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](../01/22.md). (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 05 06 clh5 0 Connecting Statement: 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.
2CO 05 06 xv3m figs-metaphor 0 while we are at home in the body 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 05 06 ebl4 0 we are away from the Lord "we are not at home with the Lord" or "we are not in heaven with the Lord"
2CO 05 07 rfn4 figs-metaphor 0 we walk by faith, not by sight Here "walk" is a metaphor for "live" or "behave." Alternate translation: "we live according to faith, not according to what we see" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 05 08 a6au 0 We would rather be away from the body Here the word "body" refers to the physical body.
2CO 05 08 i3m3 0 at home with the Lord "at home with the Lord in heaven"
2CO 05 09 ml5j figs-ellipsis 0 whether we are at home or away 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2CO 05 09 j1sl 0 to please him "to please the Lord"
2CO 05 10 kdf2 0 before the judgment seat of Christ "before Christ to be judged"
2CO 05 10 c499 0 each one may receive what is due "each person may receive what he deserves"
2CO 05 10 v8sl figs-activepassive 0 the things done in the body This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the things he has done in the physical body" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 05 10 lsh8 0 whether for good or for bad "whether those things were good or bad"
2CO 05 11 dzh5 0 knowing the fear of the Lord "knowing what it means to fear the Lord"
2CO 05 11 qm34 figs-explicit 0 we persuade people 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 05 11 v11v figs-activepassive 0 What we are is clearly seen by God This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God clearly sees what kind of people we are" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 05 11 y5l1 0 that it is also clear to your conscience "that you are also convinced of it"
2CO 05 12 mza1 0 so you may have an answer "so you may have something to say to"
2CO 05 12 it2r figs-metonymy 0 those who boast about appearances but not about what is in the heart 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2CO 05 13 cy57 figs-idiom 0 if we are out of our minds ... if we are in our right minds 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2CO 05 14 azi9 0 the love of Christ Possible meanings are 1) "Our love for Christ" or 2) "Christ's love for us."
2CO 05 14 nd9g 0 died for all "died for all people"
2CO 05 15 h831 0 him who for their sake died and was raised "him who for their sake died and whom God caused to live again" or "Christ, who died for their sake and whom God raised"
2CO 05 15 ri6f 0 for their sake Possible meanings are 1) these words refer only to "died" or 2) these words refer to both "died" and "was raised."
2CO 05 16 f2ww 0 Connecting Statement: Because of Christ's 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 Christ's death and receive God's righteousness through Christ.
2CO 05 16 ic21 0 For this reason This refers to what Paul has just said about living for Christ instead of living for self.
2CO 05 17 tl3h figs-metaphor 0 he is a new creation 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 05 17 ue8f 0 The old things have passed away Here "the old things" refers to the things that characterized a person before they trusted in Christ.
2CO 05 17 vpe3 0 See The word "See" here alerts us to pay attention to the surprising information that follows.
2CO 05 18 jyf7 0 All these things "God has done all these things." This refers to what Paul has just said in the previous verse about new things replacing old things.
2CO 05 18 lj2h figs-abstractnouns 0 the ministry of reconciliation This can be translated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: "the ministry of reconciling people to him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2CO 05 19 gvl2 0 That is "This means"
2CO 05 19 w1d1 figs-metonymy 0 in Christ God is reconciling the world to himself Here the word "world" refers to people in the world. Alternate translation: "in Christ, God is reconciling mankind to himself" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2CO 05 19 b62q 0 He is entrusting to us the message of reconciliation God has given Paul the responsibility to spread the message that God is reconciling people to himself.
2CO 05 19 ix97 0 the message of reconciliation "the message about reconciliation"
2CO 05 20 wg8f figs-activepassive 0 we are appointed as representatives of Christ This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God has appointed us as Christ's representatives" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 05 20 q9u9 0 representatives of Christ "those who speak for Christ"
2CO 05 20 a6fx figs-activepassive 0 Be reconciled to God This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Let God reconcile you to himself" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 05 21 jp2a 0 He made Christ become the sacrifice for our sin "God made Christ become the sacrifice for our sin"
2CO 05 21 hz6z figs-inclusive 0 our sin ... we might become Here the words "our" and "we" are inclusive and refer to all believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])
2CO 05 21 ebz2 0 He is the one who never sinned "Christ is the one who never sinned"
2CO 05 21 zm9e 0 He did this ... the righteousness of God in him "God did this ... the righteousness of God in Christ"
2CO 05 21 kmt9 figs-explicit 0 so that we might become the righteousness of God in him 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 God's righteousness in us through Christ" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 06 intro f5qu 0 # 2 Corinthians 06 General Notes<br>#### Structure and formatting<br><br>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.<br><br>#### Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>##### Servants<br>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.<br><br>#### Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>##### Contrasts<br><br>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://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/light]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/darkness]])<br><br>##### Light and darkness<br><br>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://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]])<br><br>##### Rhetorical questions<br>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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])<br><br>#### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>##### We<br><br>Paul likely uses the pronoun "we" to represent at least Timothy and himself. It may also include other people.<br>
2CO 06 01 tbr6 figs-explicit 0 Working together Paul is implying that he and Timothy are working with God. Alternate translation: "Working together with God" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 06 01 s8db figs-doublenegatives 0 we also urge you not to receive the grace of God in vain 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
2CO 06 02 u9kc figs-explicit 0 For he says "For God says." This introduces a quotation from the prophet Isaiah. Alternate translation: "For God says in scripture" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 06 02 sa94 0 Look The word "Look" here alerts us to pay attention to the surprising information that follows.
2CO 06 03 v3wc figs-metaphor 0 We do not place a stumbling block in front of anyone 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 06 03 he3c figs-activepassive 0 we do not wish our ministry to be discredited The word "discredited" refers to people speaking badly about Paul's 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 06 04 xd9l figs-exclusive 0 General Information: When Paul uses "we" here, he is referring to himself and Timothy. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
2CO 06 04 p9up 0 we prove ourselves by all our actions, that we are God's servants "We prove that we are God's servants by all that we do"
2CO 06 04 xyf9 0 We are his servants in much endurance, affliction, distress, hardship Paul mentions various difficult situations in which they proved that they are God's servants.
2CO 06 05 it8g 0 beatings, imprisonments, riots, in hard work, in sleepless nights, in hunger Paul continues to mention various difficult situations in which they proved that they are God's servants.
2CO 06 06 w84c 0 in purity ... in genuine love Paul lists several moral virtues that they maintained in difficult situations that proved that they are God's servants.
2CO 06 07 b6am 0 We are his servants in the word of truth, in the power of God Their dedication to preach the gospel in the power of God proves that they are God's servants.
2CO 06 07 dui6 0 in the word of truth "by speaking God's message about truth" or "by speaking God's true message"
2CO 06 07 p5l5 0 in the power of God "by showing God's power to people"
2CO 06 07 ven8 figs-metaphor 0 We have the armor of righteousness for the right hand and for the left Paul speaks of their righteousness as if it is weapons that they use to fight spiritual battles. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 06 07 ef5b 0 the armor of righteousness "righteousness as our armor" or "righteousness as our weapons"
2CO 06 07 ijr2 0 for the right hand and for the left 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.
2CO 06 08 zi7d figs-merism 0 General Information: Paul lists several extremes of how people think about him and his ministry. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-merism]])
2CO 06 08 e4pf figs-activepassive 0 We are accused of being deceitful This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "People accuse us of being deceitful" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 06 09 fcb5 figs-activepassive 0 as if we were unknown and we are still well known 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 06 09 r1d9 figs-activepassive 0 We work as being punished for our actions but not as condemned to death 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 06 11 v74j 0 spoken the whole truth to you "spoken honestly to you"
2CO 06 11 mv85 figs-metaphor 0 our heart is wide open Paul speaks of his great affection for the Corinthians as having a heart that is open. Here "heart" is a metonym for a person's emotions. Alternate translation: "we love you very much" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2CO 06 12 xv9t figs-metaphor 0 You are not restrained by us, but you are restrained in your own hearts 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 person's emotions. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2CO 06 12 u4fz figs-activepassive 0 You are not restrained by us 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 06 12 ecn4 figs-activepassive 0 you are restrained in your own hearts 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 06 13 c6vp figs-metaphor 0 open yourselves wide also 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 06 14 wj41 0 General Information: In verse 16, Paul paraphrases portions from several Old Testament prophets: Moses, Zechariah, Amos, and possibly others.
2CO 06 14 v7kk figs-doublenegatives 0 Do not be tied together with unbelievers This can be stated in positive terms. Alternate translation: "Only be tied together with believers" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
2CO 06 14 qd33 figs-metaphor 0 be tied together with 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 06 14 v7pw figs-rquestion 0 For what association does righteousness have with lawlessness? This is a rhetorical question that anticipates a negative answer. Alternate translation: "For righteousness can have no association with lawlessness" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2CO 06 14 xr52 figs-rquestion 0 For what fellowship does light have with darkness? 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 06 15 r1vq figs-rquestion 0 What agreement can Christ have with Beliar? This is a rhetorical question that anticipates a negative answer. Alternate translation: "There is no agreement between Christ and Beliar" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2CO 06 15 rm3r translate-names 0 Beliar This is another name for the devil. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2CO 06 15 z9iv figs-rquestion 0 Or what share does a believer have together with an unbeliever? This is a rhetorical question that anticipates a negative answer. Alternate translation: "A believer shares nothing in common with an unbeliever" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2CO 06 16 y99x figs-rquestion 0 And what agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2CO 06 16 s3l8 figs-metaphor 0 we are the temple of the living God 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])
2CO 06 16 u5g3 figs-parallelism 0 I will dwell among them and walk among them. 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 06 17 fe1z 0 General Information: Paul quotes portions from the Old Testament prophets, Isaiah and Ezekiel.
2CO 06 17 z5ld figs-activepassive 0 be set apart This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "set yourselves apart" or "allow me to set you apart" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 06 17 c8jq figs-doublenegatives 0 Touch no unclean thing This can be stated in positive terms. Alternate translation: "Touch only things that are clean" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
2CO 07 intro hg36 0 # 2 Corinthians 07 General Notes<br>#### Structure and formatting<br><br>In verses 2-4, Paul finishes his defense. He then writes about Titus' return and the comfort it brought.<br><br>#### Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>##### Clean and unclean<br><br>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://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/clean]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lawofmoses]])<br><br>##### Sadness and sorrow<br>The words "sad" and "sorrow" in this chapter indicate that the Corinthians were upset to the point of repenting. (See: [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/repent]])<br><br>#### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>##### We<br><br>Paul likely uses the pronoun "we" to represent at least Timothy and himself. It may also include other people.<br><br>##### Original situation<br><br>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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br>
2CO 07 02 v4nu 0 Connecting Statement: 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.
2CO 07 02 x3lg figs-metaphor 0 Make room for us This refers back to what Paul said starting in [2 Corinthians 6:11](../06/11.md) about them opening their hearts to him. Alternate translation: "Make room for us in your hearts" or "Love us and accept us" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 07 03 bhb7 0 It is not to condemn you that I say this "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.
2CO 07 03 fay3 figs-metaphor 0 you are in our hearts 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 07 03 xzg3 figs-idiom 0 for us to die together and to live together 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2CO 07 03 jt6b figs-inclusive 0 for us to die "us" includes the Corinthian believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])
2CO 07 04 mh12 figs-activepassive 0 I am filled with comfort This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "You fill me with comfort" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 07 04 mx9b figs-metaphor 0 I overflow with joy Paul speaks of joy as if it is a liquid that fills him until he overflows. Alternate translation: "I am extremely joyful" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 07 04 mr75 0 even in all our afflictions "despite all our hardships"
2CO 07 05 f3c5 figs-exclusive 0 When we came to Macedonia Here the word "we" refers to Paul and Timothy but not to the Corinthians or Titus. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
2CO 07 05 c8ju figs-synecdoche 0 our bodies had no rest Here "bodies" refers to the whole person. Alternate translation: "we had no rest" or "we were very tired" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2CO 07 05 h3cv figs-activepassive 0 we were troubled in every way This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "we experienced trouble in every way" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 07 05 i4wr figs-explicit 0 by conflicts on the outside and fears on the inside 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 07 07 w7td figs-explicit 0 by the comfort that Titus had received from you 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 07 08 b2xj 0 General Information: This refers to Paul's previous letter to these Corinthian believers where he rebuked them for their acceptance of a believer's sexual immorality with his father's wife.
2CO 07 08 vk7m 0 when I saw that my letter "when I learned that my letter"
2CO 07 09 kn5q figs-activepassive 0 not because you were distressed This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "not because what I said in my letter distressed you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 07 09 l6d2 figs-idiom 0 you suffered no loss because of us "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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2CO 07 10 dtm3 figs-ellipsis 0 For godly sorrow brings about repentance that accomplishes salvation 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2CO 07 10 lc4m 0 without regret 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.
2CO 07 10 lc1s figs-explicit 0 Worldly sorrow, however, brings about death 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 07 11 l24s 0 See what great determination "Look and see for yourselves what great determination"
2CO 07 11 gpp2 figs-exclamations 0 How great was the determination in you to prove you were innocent. Here the word "How" makes this statement an exclamation. Alternate translation: "Your determination to prove you were innocent was very great!" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclamations]])
2CO 07 11 xt2r 0 your indignation "your anger"
2CO 07 11 h6jc figs-activepassive 0 that justice should be done This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that someone should carry out justice" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 07 12 w6ls 0 the wrongdoer "the one who did wrong"
2CO 07 12 i6sn figs-activepassive 0 your good will toward us should be made known to you in the sight of God This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "so that you would know that your good will toward us is sincere" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 07 12 ycy7 figs-metaphor 0 in the sight of God This refers to God's presence. God's understanding and approval of Paul's truthfulness is referred to as God being able to see them. See how you translated this in [2 Corinthians 4:2](../04/02.md). Alternate translation: "before God" or "with God as witness" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 07 13 kn2q figs-activepassive 0 It is by this that we are encouraged Here the word "this" refers to the way the Corinthians responded to Paul's 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 07 13 v2g6 figs-activepassive 0 his spirit was refreshed by all of you Here the word "spirit" refers to a person's 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 07 14 b4uq 0 For if I boasted to him about you "For although I boasted to him about you"
2CO 07 14 m22c 0 I was not embarrassed "you did not disappoint me"
2CO 07 14 q5hg 0 our boasting about you to Titus proved to be true "you proved that our boasting about you to Titus was true"
2CO 07 15 d87j figs-abstractnouns 0 the obedience of all of you This noun "obedience" can be stated with a verb, "obey." Alternate translation: "how all of you obeyed" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2CO 07 15 g9bz figs-doublet 0 you welcomed him with fear and trembling Here "fear" and "trembling" share similar meanings and emphasize the intensity of fear. Alternate translation: "you welcomed him with great reverence" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2CO 07 15 q47h 0 with fear and trembling Possible meanings are 1) "with great reverence for God" or 2) "with great reverence for Titus."
2CO 08 intro kl7m 0 # 2 Corinthians 08 General Notes<br>#### Structure and formatting<br><br>Chapters 8 and 9 begin a new section. Paul writes about how churches in Greece helped needy believers in Jerusalem.<br><br>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.<br><br>#### Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>##### Gift to the church in Jerusalem<br><br>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.<br><br>#### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>##### We<br><br>Paul likely uses the pronoun "we" to represent at least Timothy and himself. It may also include other people.<br><br>##### Paradox<br><br>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](./02.md))<br>
2CO 08 01 d1mj figs-activepassive 0 the grace of God that has been given to the churches of Macedonia This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the grace that God has given to the churches of Macedonia" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 08 02 fsq8 figs-personification 0 the abundance of their joy and the extremity of their poverty have produced great riches of generosity Paul speaks of "joy" and "poverty" as if they were living things that can produce generosity. Alternate translation: "because of the people's great joy and extreme poverty, they have become very generous" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-personification]])
2CO 08 02 b7k5 figs-metaphor 0 the abundance of their joy Paul speaks of joy as if it were a physical object that could increase in size or quantity. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 08 02 pr8c 0 extremity of their poverty ... riches of generosity Though the churches of Macedonia have suffered testings of affliction and poverty, by God's grace, they have been able to collect money for the believers in Jerusalem.
2CO 08 02 z6mt 0 great riches of generosity "a very great generosity." The words "great riches" emphasize the greatness of their generosity.
2CO 08 03 uad6 0 they gave This refers to the churches in Macedonia.
2CO 08 03 e6ub 0 of their own free will "voluntarily"
2CO 08 04 nmw8 figs-explicit 0 this ministry to the believers Paul is referring to providing money to the believers in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: "this ministry of providing for the believers in Jerusalem" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 08 06 z42y figs-explicit 0 who had already begun this task 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 08 06 vn4u figs-explicit 0 to complete among you this act of grace 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 08 07 fpe1 figs-metaphor 0 make sure that you excel in this act of grace 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 08 08 wn2k figs-explicit 0 by comparing it to the eagerness of other people Paul is encouraging the Corinthians to give generously by comparing them with the generosity of the Macedonian churches. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 08 09 c1ch 0 the grace of our Lord In this context, the word "grace" emphasizes the generosity with which Jesus had blessed the Corinthians.
2CO 08 09 iz6z figs-metaphor 0 Even though he was rich, for your sakes he became poor Paul speaks of Jesus before his incarnation as being rich, and of his becoming human as becoming poor. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 08 09 j5ym figs-metaphor 0 through his poverty you might become rich Paul speaks of the Corinthians becoming spiritually rich as a result of Jesus becoming human. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 08 10 b7ht figs-explicit 0 In this matter This refers to their collecting money to give to the believers in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: "With regard to the collection" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 08 11 fc27 figs-abstractnouns 0 there was an eagerness and desire to do it This can be stated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: "you were eager and desired to do it" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2CO 08 11 d6ly 0 bring it to completion "complete it" or "finish it"
2CO 08 12 in3v figs-doublet 0 a good and acceptable thing Here the words "good" and "acceptable" share similar meanings and emphasize the goodness of the thing. Alternate translation: "a very good thing" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublet]])
2CO 08 12 k9wh 0 It must be based on what a person has "Giving must be based on what a person has"
2CO 08 13 mp6k figs-explicit 0 For this task This refers to collecting money for the believers in Jerusalem. Alternate translation: "For this task of collecting money" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 08 13 smk2 figs-activepassive 0 that others may be relieved and you may be burdened This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that you may relieve others and burden yourselves" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 08 13 ktd1 0 there should be fairness "there should be equality"
2CO 08 14 v7aj 0 This is also so that their abundance may supply your need 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"
2CO 08 15 ue8w figs-activepassive 0 as it is written Here Paul quotes from Exodus. This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "as Moses wrote" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 08 15 u28y figs-doublenegatives 0 did not have any lack This can be stated positively. Alternate translation: "had all he needed" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
2CO 08 16 cr18 figs-synecdoche 0 who put into Titus' heart the same earnest care that I have for you 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])
2CO 08 16 vsm3 0 same earnest care "the same enthusiasm" or "same deep concern"
2CO 08 17 e4xn figs-explicit 0 For he not only accepted our appeal 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 08 18 rje2 0 with him "with Titus"
2CO 08 18 jll9 figs-activepassive 0 the brother who is praised among all of the churches This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the brother whom believers among all of the churches praise" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 08 19 j9rk 0 Not only this "Not only do believers among all of the churches praise him"
2CO 08 19 c667 figs-activepassive 0 he also was selected by the churches This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the churches also selected him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 08 19 k7dy 0 in our carrying out this act of grace "to carry out this act of generosity." This refers to taking the offering to Jerusalem.
2CO 08 19 v22x 0 for our eagerness to help "to demonstrate our eagerness to help"
2CO 08 20 a3ps figs-abstractnouns 0 concerning this generosity that we are carrying out 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2CO 08 21 n4x1 0 We take care to do what is honorable "We are careful to handle this gift in an honorable way"
2CO 08 21 ey5n 0 before the Lord ... before people "in the Lord's opinion ... in people's opinion"
2CO 08 22 d3yj 0 with them The word "them" refers to Titus and the previously mentioned brother.
2CO 08 23 mmi2 0 he is my partner and fellow worker for you "he is my partner who works with me to help you"
2CO 08 23 lat3 0 As for our brothers This refers to the two other men who will accompany Titus.
2CO 08 23 u8lx figs-activepassive 0 they are sent by the churches This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "the churches have sent them" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 08 23 a8v2 figs-abstractnouns 0 They are an honor to Christ This can be stated with a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: "They will cause people to honor Christ" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2CO 09 intro lt8d 0 # 2 Corinthians 09 General Notes<br>#### Structure and formatting<br><br>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.<br><br>#### Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>##### Metaphors<br><br>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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/reward]])<br>
2CO 09 01 rd2g translate-names 0 General Information: When Paul refers to Achaia, he is talking about a Roman province located in southern Greece where Corinth is located. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-names]])
2CO 09 01 wc5l 0 Connecting Statement: 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.
2CO 09 01 fxs3 figs-explicit 0 the ministry for the believers 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 09 02 i529 figs-metonymy 0 Achaia has been getting ready 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2CO 09 03 r5pp 0 the brothers This refers to Titus and the two men who accompany him.
2CO 09 03 k1er 0 our boasting about you may not be futile Paul does not want others to think that the things that he had boasted about the Corinthians were false.
2CO 09 04 j8ey 0 find you unprepared "find you unprepared to give"
2CO 09 05 q1up figs-go 0 the brothers to come to you From Paul's perspective, the brothers are going. Alternate translation: "the brothers to go to you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-go]])
2CO 09 05 nm2n figs-activepassive 0 not as something extorted This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "not as something that we forced you to give" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 09 06 mm9w figs-metaphor 0 the one who sows ... reap a blessing Paul uses the image of a farmer sowing seeds to describe the results of giving. As a farmer's harvest is based on how much he sows, so will God's blessings be little or much based on how generously the Corinthians give. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 09 07 tzt4 figs-metonymy 0 give as he has planned in his heart Here the word "heart" refers to the thoughts and emotions. Alternate translation: "give as he has determined" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2CO 09 07 whg6 figs-abstractnouns 0 not reluctantly or under compulsion This can be translated with verbal phrases. Alternate translation: "not because he feels guilty or because someone is compelling him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2CO 09 07 t26d 0 for God loves a cheerful giver God wants people to give gladly to help provide for fellow believers.
2CO 09 08 cz9b figs-metaphor 0 God is able to make all grace overflow for you 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 09 08 zxz9 0 grace This refers here to the physical things a Christian needs, not to the need for God to save him from his sins.
2CO 09 08 u8w6 0 so that you may multiply every good deed "so that you may be able to do more and more good deeds"
2CO 09 09 mma1 figs-activepassive 0 It is as it is written "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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 09 10 p3fl 0 He who supplies "God who supplies"
2CO 09 10 b1xe figs-metonymy 0 bread for food Here the word "bread" refers to food in general. Alternate translation: "food to eat" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2CO 09 10 uts1 figs-metaphor 0 will also supply and multiply your seed for sowing 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 09 10 ci67 figs-metaphor 0 He will increase the harvest of your righteousness 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 09 10 yv67 0 the harvest of your righteousness "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.
2CO 09 11 eey1 figs-activepassive 0 You will be enriched This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "God will enrich you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 09 11 b3e5 figs-explicit 0 This will bring about thanksgiving to God through us The word this refers to the Corinthian's 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 09 12 l7kq figs-explicit 0 For carrying out this service 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 09 12 esk7 figs-metaphor 0 but is also overflowing into many acts of thanksgiving to God 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 09 13 plj4 figs-activepassive 0 Because of your being tested and proved by this service This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "Because this service has tested and proven you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 09 13 ze14 0 you will also glorify God by obedience ... by the generosity of your gift to them and to everyone Paul says that the Corinthians will glorify God both by being faithful to Jesus and by giving generously to other believers who have need.
2CO 09 15 es8c 0 for his inexpressible gift "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.
2CO 0 # 2 Corinthians 10 General Notes<br>#### Structure and formatting<br><br>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.<br><br>In this chapter, Paul returns to defending his authority. He also compares the way he speaks and the way he writes.<br><br>#### Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>##### Boasting<br>"Boasting" is often thought of as bragging, which is not good. But in this letter "boasting" means confidently exulting or rejoicing.<br><br>#### Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>##### Metaphor<br><br>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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])<br><br>#### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>##### Flesh<br><br>"Flesh" is possibly a metaphor for a person's 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://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/flesh]])<br>
2CO 10 01 gq7j figs-abstractnouns 0 by the humility and gentleness of Christ 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2CO 10 02 i6hh 0 who assume that "who think that"
2CO 10 02 ik1p figs-metonymy 0 we are living according to the flesh The word "flesh" is a metonym for sinful human nature. "we are acting from human motives" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2CO 10 03 cvd6 figs-metonymy 0 we walk in the flesh 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 10 03 k7h8 figs-metaphor 0 we do not wage war 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 10 03 gpd3 figs-metonymy 0 wage war according to the flesh 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2CO 10 04 uf5s figs-metaphor 0 the weapons we fight with ... bring to nothing misleading arguments 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 10 04 xv6q figs-metaphor 0 we fight 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 10 04 d1gj figs-metonymy 0 are not fleshly 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2CO 10 05 xuz9 0 every high thing that rises up 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"
2CO 10 05 b74d 0 every high thing "everything that proud people do"
2CO 10 05 vm1a figs-metaphor 0 rises up against the knowledge of God 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 10 05 r2yz figs-metaphor 0 We take every thought captive into obedience to Christ Paul speaks of people's 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2CO 10 06 m4ds figs-metonymy 0 punish every act of disobedience 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2CO 10 07 y2yb figs-rquestion 0 Look at what is clearly in front of you. 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2CO 10 07 z1t5 0 let him remind himself "he needs to remember"
2CO 10 07 f3i9 0 that just as he is Christ's, so also are we "that we belong to Christ just as much as he does"
2CO 10 08 d4zu figs-metaphor 0 to build you up and not to destroy you 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 10 09 nw6e 0 I am terrifying you "I am trying to frighten you"
2CO 10 10 mt6h 0 serious and powerful "demanding and forceful"
2CO 10 11 m6m6 0 Let such people be aware "I want such people to be aware"
2CO 10 11 g58z 0 what we are in the words of our letters when we are absent is what we will be in our actions when we are there "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"
2CO 10 11 kb55 figs-exclusive 0 we ... our All instances of these words refer to Paul's ministry team but not the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-exclusive]])
2CO 10 12 k94z 0 to group ourselves or compare "to say we are as good as"
2CO 10 12 i85y figs-parallelism 0 they measure themselves by one another and compare themselves with each other Paul is saying much the same thing twice. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2CO 10 12 n8sx figs-metaphor 0 they measure themselves by one another 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 10 12 zwl5 0 have no insight "show everyone that they do not know anything"
2CO 10 13 x79x figs-metaphor 0 General Information: 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 10 13 a4ud figs-idiom 0 will not boast beyond limits 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2CO 10 13 u84l 0 within the limits of what God "about things under the authority that God"
2CO 10 13 fx2b figs-metaphor 0 limits that reach as far as you 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 10 14 ay6h 0 did not overextend ourselves "did not go beyond our borders"
2CO 10 15 hu9l figs-idiom 0 have not boasted beyond limits This is an idiom. See how similar words were translated in [2 Corinthians 10:13](../10/13.md). 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]])
2CO 10 16 raq7 0 another's area "an area God has assigned to someone else"
2CO 10 17 q8cc 0 boast in the Lord "boast about what the Lord has done"
2CO 10 18 h81t 0 recommends himself 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](../04/02.md).
2CO 10 18 n5v6 figs-activepassive 0 who is approved This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "whom the Lord approves" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 10 18 sy2r figs-ellipsis 0 it is the one whom the Lord recommends 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2CO 0 # 2 Corinthians 11 General Notes<br>#### Structure and formatting<br><br>In this chapter, Paul continues defending his authority.<br><br>#### Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>##### False teaching<br>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://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/goodnews]])<br><br>##### Light<br>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://en/tw/dict/bible/other/light]], [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/righteous]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/darkness]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/sin]])<br><br>#### Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>##### Metaphor<br><br>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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/holy]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])<br><br>##### Irony<br><br>This chapter is full of irony. Paul is hoping to shame the Corinthian believers with his irony.<br><br>"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.<br><br>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.<br><br>"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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/apostle]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])<br><br>##### Rhetorical questions<br><br>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."<br><br>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?"<br><br>##### "Are they servants of Christ?"<br>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.<br><br>#### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>##### Paradox<br><br>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](./30.md))<br>
2CO 11 01 r4q6 0 put up with me in some foolishness "allow me to act like a fool"
2CO 11 02 m6vl 0 jealous ... jealousy 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.
2CO 11 02 ee9i figs-metaphor 0 I promised you in marriage to one husband. I promised to present you as a pure virgin to Christ 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 11 03 l2hr 0 But I am afraid that somehow ... pure devotion to Christ "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"
2CO 11 03 m5zn figs-metaphor 0 your thoughts might be led astray away 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 11 04 wq57 0 For suppose that someone comes and "When anyone comes and"
2CO 11 04 l7m8 0 a different spirit than what you received. Or suppose that you receive a different gospel than the one you received "a different spirit than the Holy Spirit, or a different gospel than you received from us"
2CO 11 04 fs5z 0 put up with these things "deal with these things." See how these words were translated in [2 Corinthians 11:1](../11/01.md).
2CO 11 05 eet1 figs-irony 0 those so-called super-apostles 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
2CO 11 06 f8d1 figs-litotes 0 I am not untrained in knowledge 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2CO 11 07 un9v figs-rquestion 0 Did I sin by humbling myself so you might be exalted? 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2CO 11 07 ax51 0 freely preached the gospel of God to you "preached the gospel of God to you without expecting anything from you in return"
2CO 11 08 k6ds figs-irony 0 I robbed other churches 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2CO 11 08 a416 figs-explicit 0 I could serve you The full meaning of this can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "I could serve you at no cost" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 11 09 fc6l figs-explicit 0 In everything I have kept myself from being a burden to you "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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 11 09 a23k 0 the brothers who came These "brothers" were probably all male.
2CO 11 09 b35r 0 I will continue to do that "I never will be a burden to you"
2CO 11 10 si2r 0 As the truth of Christ is in me, this 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"
2CO 11 10 nae3 figs-activepassive 0 this boasting of mine will not be silenced This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "no one will be able to make me stop boasting and stay silent" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 11 10 ua2i 0 this boasting of mine This refers to what Paul spoke about starting in ([2 Corinthians 11:7](../11/07.md)).
2CO 11 10 ry9c 0 parts of Achaia "regions of Achaia." The word "parts" speaks of areas of land, not political divisions.
2CO 11 11 zqu5 figs-rquestion 0 Why? Because I do not love you? 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2CO 11 11 rj6f figs-ellipsis 0 God knows You can make clear the understood information. Alternate translation: "God knows I love you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2CO 11 12 d9sl figs-metaphor 0 in order that I may take away the claim 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 11 12 t4js figs-activepassive 0 they are found to be doing the same work that we are doing This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "that people will think that they are like us" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 11 13 ml66 0 For such people "I do what I do because people like them"
2CO 11 13 y896 0 disguise themselves as apostles "are not apostles, but they try to make themselves look like apostles"
2CO 11 14 v9z4 figs-litotes 0 this is no surprise By stating this in a negative form Paul is emphasizing that the Corinthians should expect to meet many "false apostles" ([2 Corinthians 11:13](../11/13.md)). Alternate translation: "we should expect this" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
2CO 11 14 ss7s 0 Satan disguises himself as an angel of light "Satan is not an angel of light, but he tries to make himself look like an angel of light"
2CO 11 14 mld4 figs-metaphor 0 an angel of light Here "light" is a metaphor for righteousness. Alternate translation: "an angel of righteousness" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 11 15 fvx7 figs-litotes 0 It is no great surprise if By stating this in a negative form Paul is emphasizing that the Corinthians should expect to meet many "false apostles" ([2 Corinthians 11:13](../11/13.md)). Alternate translation: "We should certainly expect that" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
2CO 11 15 sb58 0 his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness "his servants are not servants of righteousness, but they try to make themselves look like servants of righteousness"
2CO 11 16 s962 0 receive me as a fool so I may boast a little "receive me as you would receive a fool: let me talk, and consider my boasting the words of a fool"
2CO 11 18 t4ic figs-metonymy 0 according to the flesh Here the metonym "flesh" refers to man in his sinful nature and his achievements. Alternate translation: "about their own human achievements" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2CO 11 19 u8f3 0 put up with fools "accept me when I act like a fool." See how a similar phrase was translated in [2 Corinthians 11:1](../11/01.md).
2CO 11 19 si6l figs-irony 0 You are wise yourselves! Paul is shaming the Corinthians by using irony. Alternate translation: "You think you are wise, but you are not!" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
2CO 11 20 lu7d figs-metaphor 0 enslaves you 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2CO 11 20 sr4n figs-metaphor 0 he consumes you Paul speaks of the super-apostles' taking people's material resources as if they were eating the people themselves. Alternate translation: "he takes all your property" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 11 20 yn5t 0 takes advantage of you 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.
2CO 11 21 n8s9 figs-irony 0 I will say to our shame that we were too weak to do that "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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
2CO 11 21 v8a3 0 Yet if anyone boasts ... I too will boast "Whatever anyone boasts about ... I will dare to boast about it also"
2CO 11 22 qi8w 0 Connecting Statement: As Paul continues to confirm his apostleship, he states specific things that have happened to him since he became a believer.
2CO 11 22 jdq8 figs-rquestion 0 Are they Hebrews? ... Are they Israelites? ... Are they descendants of Abraham? 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2CO 11 23 a4tz figs-rquestion 0 Are they servants of Christ? (I speak as though I were out of my mind.) I am more 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2CO 11 23 bq23 0 as though I were out of my mind "as though I were unable to think well"
2CO 11 23 vy54 figs-ellipsis 0 I am more You can make clear the understood information. Alternate translation: "I am more a servant of Christ than they are" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-ellipsis]])
2CO 11 23 s8wq 0 in even more hard work "I have worked harder"
2CO 11 23 dr6x 0 in far more prisons "I have been in prisons more often"
2CO 11 23 cs3f figs-idiom 0 in beatings beyond measure 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-idiom]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2CO 11 23 r6jv 0 in facing many dangers of death "and I have almost died many times"
2CO 11 24 ttz2 0 forty lashes minus one 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.
2CO 11 25 u9xc figs-activepassive 0 I was beaten with rods This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "people beat me with wooden rods" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 11 25 xk9w figs-activepassive 0 I was stoned This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "people threw stones at me until they thought I was dead" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 11 25 b4kz 0 I have spent a night and a day on the open sea Paul was referring to floating in the water after the ship he was on sank.
2CO 11 26 b3j9 figs-explicit 0 in danger from false brothers 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 11 27 ds5h figs-hyperbole 0 nakedness Here Paul exaggerates to show his need of clothing. Alternate translation: "without enough clothing to keep me warm" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hyperbole]])
2CO 11 28 n1q5 figs-metaphor 0 there is the daily pressure on me of my anxiety 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 11 29 fvz6 figs-rquestion 0 Who is weak, and I am not weak? This rhetorical question can be translated as a statement. Alternate translation: "Whenever anyone is weak, I feel that weakness also." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2CO 11 29 hhb2 figs-metaphor 0 Who is weak, and I am not weak? 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 11 29 g5am figs-rquestion 0 Who has been caused to stumble, and I do not burn? 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 11 29 xu57 figs-metaphor 0 has been caused to stumble 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 11 29 jb4v figs-metaphor 0 I do not burn 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 11 30 gxe6 0 what shows my weaknesses "what shows how weak I am"
2CO 11 31 yx8z figs-litotes 0 I am not lying Paul is using litotes to emphasize that he is telling the truth. Alternate translation: "I am telling the absolute truth" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
2CO 11 32 n383 0 the governor under King Aretas was guarding the city "the governor whom King Aretas had appointed had told men to guard the city"
2CO 11 32 j7de 0 to arrest me "so that they might catch and arrest me"
2CO 11 33 i8xa figs-activepassive 0 I was lowered in a basket This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "some people put me in a basket and lowered me to the ground" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 11 33 aw7d figs-metonymy 0 from his hands Paul uses the governor's hands as metonymy for the governor. Alternate translation: "from the governor" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2CO 0 # 2 Corinthians 12 General Notes<br>#### Structure and formatting<br><br>Paul continues defending his authority in this chapter.<br><br>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://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/apostle]])<br><br>#### Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>##### Paul's vision<br><br>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://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/heaven]])<br><br>##### Third heaven<br>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).<br><br>#### Important figures of speech in this chapter<br><br>##### Rhetorical questions<br><br>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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])<br><br>##### Sarcasm<br><br>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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])<br><br>#### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br><br>##### Paradox<br><br>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](./05.md))<br>
2CO 12 01 iwn3 0 Connecting Statement: In defending his apostleship from God, Paul continues to state specific things that have happened to him since he became a believer.
2CO 12 01 iur3 0 I will go on to "I will continue talking, but now about"
2CO 12 01 rb42 figs-hendiadys 0 visions and revelations from the Lord 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-hendiadys]])
2CO 12 02 cz7u 0 I know a man in Christ Paul is actually speaking of himself as if he were speaking of someone else, but this should be translated literally if possible.
2CO 12 02 fth2 0 whether in the body or out of the body, I do not know 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"
2CO 12 02 k4aw 0 the third heaven This refers to the dwelling place of God rather than the sky or outer space (the planets, stars, and the universe).
2CO 12 03 cju3 0 General Information: Paul continues to speak of himself as though he were speaking of someone else.
2CO 12 04 qv5h 0 was caught up into paradise This continues Paul's 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."
2CO 12 04 wm7y 0 caught up suddenly and forcefully held and taken
2CO 12 04 ic45 0 paradise Possible meanings are 1) heaven or 2) the third heaven or 3) a special place in heaven.
2CO 12 05 hpq6 0 of such a person "of that person"
2CO 12 05 i12f 0 I will not boast, except about my weaknesses This can be stated in positive form. Alternate translation: "I will boast only of my weaknesses"
2CO 12 06 p8fm 0 no one will think more of me than what he sees in me or hears from me "no one will give me more credit than what he sees in me or hears from me"
2CO 12 07 v5s7 0 General Information: This verse reveals that Paul was speaking about himself beginning in [2 Corinthians 12:2](../12/02.md).
2CO 12 07 xxi2 0 because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations "because those revelations were so much greater than anything anyone else had ever seen"
2CO 12 07 hu8g figs-activepassive 0 a thorn in the flesh was given to me 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 12 07 q5e7 figs-metaphor 0 a thorn in the flesh Here Paul's physical problems are compared to a thorn piercing his flesh. Alternate translation: " an affliction" or "a physical problem" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 12 07 q7lz 0 a messenger from Satan "a servant of Satan"
2CO 12 07 ehp9 0 overly proud "too proud"
2CO 12 08 n76p 0 Three times 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](../12/07.md)).
2CO 12 08 wc7r 0 Lord about this "Lord about this thorn in the flesh," or "Lord about this affliction"
2CO 12 09 nr2j 0 My grace is enough for you "I will be kind to you, and that is all you need"
2CO 12 09 cs63 0 for power is made perfect in weakness "for my power works best when you are weak"
2CO 12 09 g8mi figs-metaphor 0 the power of Christ might reside on me Paul speaks of Christ's 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 12 10 pxf1 0 I am content for Christ's sake in weaknesses, in insults, in troubles, in persecutions and distressing situations 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."
2CO 12 10 s5sx 0 in weaknesses "when I am weak"
2CO 12 10 xl8q 0 in insults "when people try to make me angry by saying that I am a bad person"
2CO 12 10 hza1 0 in troubles "when I am suffering"
2CO 12 10 c4t2 0 distressing situations "when there is trouble"
2CO 12 10 t7qg 0 For whenever I am weak, then I am strong 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.
2CO 12 11 uph4 0 Connecting Statement: Paul reminds the believers in Corinth of the true signs of an apostle and of his humility before them to strengthen them.
2CO 12 11 a1ym 0 I have become a fool "I am acting like a fool"
2CO 12 11 pzw1 0 You forced me to this "You forced me to talk this way"
2CO 12 11 v2lr figs-activepassive 0 I should have been praised by you This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: "it is praise that you should have given me" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 12 11 f644 0 praised Possible meanings are 1) "praise" ([2 Corinthians 3:1](../03/01.md)) or 2) "recommend" ([2 Corinthians 4:2](../04/02.md)).
2CO 12 11 h4d5 figs-litotes 0 For I was not at all inferior to 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
2CO 12 11 s82x figs-irony 0 super-apostles 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](../11/05.md). Alternate translation: "those teachers whom some think are better than anyone else" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
2CO 12 12 kp5l figs-activepassive 0 The true signs of an apostle were performed 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 12 12 mka5 0 signs ... signs Use the same word both times.
2CO 12 12 d4um 0 signs and wonders and mighty deeds These are the "true signs of an apostle" that Paul performed "with complete patience."
2CO 12 13 z35e figs-rquestion 0 how were you less important than the rest of the churches, except that ... you? 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2CO 12 13 d426 0 I was not a burden to you "I did not ask you for money or other things I needed"
2CO 12 13 sy7v figs-irony 0 Forgive me for this wrong! 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
2CO 12 13 u1w9 0 this wrong not asking them for money and other things he needed
2CO 12 14 ugk1 figs-explicit 0 I want you The full meaning of this statement can be made explicit. Alternate translation: "What I want is that you love and accept me" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-explicit]])
2CO 12 14 wd97 0 children should not save up for the parents Young children are not responsible for saving money or other goods to give to their healthy parents.
2CO 12 15 vj2m figs-metaphor 0 I will most gladly spend and be spent 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 12 15 nk8v figs-metonymy 0 for your souls The word "souls" is a metonym for the people themselves. Alternate translation: "for you" or "so you will live well" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metonymy]])
2CO 12 15 t3na figs-rquestion 0 If I love you more, am I to be loved less? 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2CO 12 15 j887 0 more It is not clear what it is that Paul's 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.
2CO 12 16 ur5x figs-irony 0 But, since I am so crafty, I am the one who caught you by deceit 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-irony]])
2CO 12 17 vb7q figs-rquestion 0 Did I take advantage of you by anyone I sent to you? 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2CO 12 18 pjl2 figs-rquestion 0 Did Titus take advantage of you? 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2CO 12 18 acg6 figs-rquestion 0 Did we not walk in the same way? 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]]) (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 12 18 k6b3 figs-rquestion 0 Did we not walk in the same steps? 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]] and [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 12 19 g1iw figs-rquestion 0 Do you think all of this time we have been defending ourselves to you? 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])
2CO 12 19 ih3e figs-metaphor 0 In the sight of God 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 12 19 vg3u figs-metaphor 0 for your strengthening "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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 12 20 cu6s 0 I may not find you as I wish "I may not like what I find" or "I may not like what I see you doing"
2CO 12 20 zy6g 0 you might not find me as you wish "you might not like what you see in me"
2CO 12 20 rh1h figs-abstractnouns 0 there may be quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, rivalries, slander, gossip, arrogance, and disorder 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 other's private lives, being proud, and opposing those whom God has chosen to lead you" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2CO 12 21 ddw3 0 I might be grieved by many of those who have sinned before now "I will be grieved because many of them have not given up their old sins"
2CO 12 21 hq1e figs-parallelism 0 did not repent of the impurity and sexual immorality and lustful indulgence 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-parallelism]])
2CO 12 21 rh22 figs-abstractnouns 0 of the impurity 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2CO 12 21 rn6u figs-abstractnouns 0 of the ... sexual immorality The abstract noun "immorality" can be translated as "immoral deeds." Alternate translation: "of doing sexually immoral deeds" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2CO 12 21 yyr5 figs-abstractnouns 0 of the ... lustful indulgence The abstract noun "indulgence" can be translated using a verb phrase. Alternate translation: "of ... doing things that satisfy immoral sexual desire" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2CO 0 # 2 Corinthians 13 General Notes<br>#### Structure and formatting<br><br>In this chapter, Paul finishes defending his authority. He then concludes the letter with a final greeting and blessing.<br><br>#### Special concepts in this chapter<br><br>##### Preparation<br>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://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/disciple]])<br><br>#### Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter<br>##### Power and weakness<br>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.<br><br>##### "Examine yourselves to see if you are in the faith. Test yourselves."<br>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://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/faith]] and [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/save]])<br>
2CO 13 01 y8fz 0 Connecting Statement: Paul establishes that Christ is speaking through him and that Paul is wanting to restore them, encourage them, and unify them.
2CO 13 01 slj1 figs-activepassive 0 Every accusation must be established by the evidence of two or three witnesses 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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 13 02 fxl6 0 all the rest "all you other people"
2CO 13 04 a1bf figs-activepassive 0 he was crucified This can be made active. Alternate translation: "they crucified him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 13 04 zeh1 0 but we will live with him by the power of God God gives us the power and ability to live life in and with him.
2CO 13 05 sbx4 0 in you Possible meanings are 1) living inside each individual or 2) "among you," part of and the most important member of the group.
2CO 13 07 u75e figs-litotes 0 that you may not do any wrong "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://en/ta/man/translate/figs-litotes]])
2CO 13 07 gt2e 0 to have passed the test "to be great teachers and live the truth"
2CO 13 08 a3l7 0 we are not able to do anything against the truth "we are not able to keep people from learning the truth"
2CO 13 08 bt3c 0 truth, but only for the truth "truth; everything we do will enable people to learn the truth"
2CO 13 09 vt7b 0 may be made complete "may become spiritually mature"
2CO 13 10 rlm8 figs-metaphor 0 so that I may build you up, and not tear you down 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](../10/08.md). Alternate translation: "to help you become better followers of Christ and not to discourage you so you stop following him" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
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