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
2CO 1 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]])
2CO 1 1 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 1 1 mel3 Παῦλος…τῇ ἐκκλησίᾳ τοῦ Θεοῦ τῇ οὔσῃ ἐν Κορίνθῳ 1 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 1 1 f59u Τιμόθεος ὁ ἀδελφὸς 1 Timothy our brother This indicates that both Paul and the Corinthians knew Timothy and considered him to be their spiritual brother.
2CO 1 1 mhg5 translate-names Ἀχαΐᾳ 1 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 1 3 px2q figs-activepassive εὐλογητὸς ὁ Θεὸς καὶ Πατὴρ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 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 1 3 k7dl ὁ Θεὸς καὶ Πατὴρ 1 the God and Father “God, who is the Father”
2CO 1 3 pg4a figs-parallelism ὁ Πατὴρ τῶν οἰκτιρμῶν καὶ Θεὸς πάσης παρακλήσεως 1 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 1 3 blv4 ὁ Πατὴρ τῶν οἰκτιρμῶν καὶ Θεὸς πάσης παρακλήσεως 1 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 1 4 n2lc figs-inclusive παρακαλῶν ἡμᾶς ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ θλίψει ἡμῶν 1 comforts us in all our affliction Here “us” and “our” include the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])
2CO 1 5 nn5a figs-metaphor ὅτι καθὼς περισσεύει τὰ παθήματα τοῦ Χριστοῦ εἰς ἡμᾶς 1 For just as the sufferings of Christ abound toward us 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 1 5 i254 τὰ παθήματα τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 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 1 5 tg9w figs-metaphor περισσεύει…ἡ παράκλησις ἡμῶν 1 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 1 6 y9bi figs-exclusive εἴτε δὲ θλιβόμεθα 1 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 1 6 wyj4 figs-activepassive εἴτε παρακαλούμεθα 1 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 1 6 cfq7 τῆς ὑμῶν παρακλήσεως, τῆς ἐνεργουμένης 1 your comfort that results “You experience effective comfort”
2CO 1 8 jqn8 figs-litotes οὐ…θέλομεν ὑμᾶς ἀγνοεῖν 1 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 1 8 pr8a figs-metaphor ὅτι καθ’ ὑπερβολὴν ὑπὲρ δύναμιν ἐβαρήθημεν 1 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 1 8 gu5b figs-activepassive ὑπερβολὴν…ἐβαρήθημεν 1 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 1 9 lks3 figs-metaphor αὐτοὶ ἐν ἑαυτοῖς τὸ ἀπόκριμα τοῦ θανάτου ἐσχήκαμεν 1 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 1 9 i7up figs-ellipsis ἀλλ’ ἐπὶ τῷ Θεῷ 1 but 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 1 9 bu2y figs-idiom τῷ ἐγείροντι τοὺς νεκρούς 1 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 1 10 x4kh figs-metaphor θανάτου 1 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 1 11 q17d συνυπουργούντων καὶ ὑμῶν ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν 1 as you also join together…on our behalf “God will rescue us from danger as you, the people of the church of Corinth, also help us”
2CO 1 11 k1fl figs-activepassive τὸ εἰς ἡμᾶς χάρισμα 1 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 1 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 1 12 r9p8 ἡ γὰρ καύχησις ἡμῶν αὕτη ἐστίν 1 For our proud confidence is this The word “proud” here is used in the positive sense of feeling great satisfaction and joy in something.
2CO 1 12 c7mu figs-personification τὸ μαρτύριον τῆς συνειδήσεως ἡμῶν 1 the testimony of our conscience 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 1 12 c1bd figs-metonymy οὐκ ἐν σοφίᾳ σαρκικῇ, ἀλλ’ ἐν χάριτι Θεοῦ 1 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 1 13 h21j figs-doublenegatives οὐ γὰρ ἄλλα γράφομεν ὑμῖν, ἀλλ’ ἢ ἃ ἀναγινώσκετε ἢ καὶ ἐπιγινώσκετε 1 For we write no other things to you, but that which you read or also 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 1 14 ma5m καύχημα ὑμῶν 1 your reason for boasting The word “boasting” here is used in the positive sense of feeling great satisfaction and joy in something.
2CO 1 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 1 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 1 15 n5ex ταύτῃ τῇ πεποιθήσει 1 with this confidence The word “this” refers to Paul’s previous comments about the Corinthians.
2CO 1 15 y432 δευτέραν χάριν σχῆτε 1 you might have a second blessing “you might benefit from me visiting you twice”
2CO 1 16 mp6u ὑφ’ ὑμῶν προπεμφθῆναι εἰς τὴν Ἰουδαίαν 1 to be sent on my way to Judea by you “assist me on my way to Judea”
2CO 1 17 zms7 figs-rquestion μήτι ἄρα τῇ ἐλαφρίᾳ ἐχρησάμην? 1 I did not then take it lightly, did I? 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 1 17 chy9 figs-rquestion ἢ ἃ βουλεύομαι, κατὰ σάρκα βουλεύομαι, ἵνα ᾖ παρ’ ἐμοὶ τὸ ναὶ, ναὶ, καὶ τὸ οὒ, οὔ? 1 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 1 17 y41z figs-explicit ἢ ἃ βουλεύομαι, κατὰ σάρκα βουλεύομαι, ἵνα ᾖ παρ’ ἐμοὶ τὸ ναὶ, ναὶ, καὶ τὸ οὒ, οὔ? 1 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 1 19 z4he figs-explicit ὁ τοῦ Θεοῦ γὰρ Υἱὸς, Ἰησοῦς Χριστός…οὐκ ἐγένετο ναὶ καὶ οὒ, ἀλλὰ ναὶ ἐν αὐτῷ γέγονεν. 1 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 1 19 hd2t guidelines-sonofgodprinciples ὁ τοῦ Θεοῦ…Υἱὸς 1 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 1 20 h2xc figs-explicit ὅσαι…ἐπαγγελίαι Θεοῦ, ἐν αὐτῷ τὸ ναί 1 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 1 20 h4uv ἐν αὐτῷ τὸ ναί…δι’ αὐτοῦ…δι’ ἡμῶν 1 “Yes” in him…through him we say The word “him” refers to Jesus Christ.
2CO 1 21 d3s3 ὁ δὲ βεβαιῶν ἡμᾶς σὺν ὑμῖν εἰς Χριστὸν καὶ χρίσας ἡμᾶς Θεός 1 Now God is the one who establishes 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 1 21 tjc6 χρίσας ἡμᾶς 1 he anointed us Possible meanings are (1) “he sent us to preach the gospel” or (2) “he chose us to be his people.”
2CO 1 22 z43l figs-metaphor ὁ καὶ σφραγισάμενος ἡμᾶς 1 the one who also sealed 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 1 22 xe98 figs-metonymy δοὺς τὸν ἀρραβῶνα τοῦ Πνεύματος ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ἡμῶν 1 he gave us the pledge of 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 1 22 jcv7 figs-metaphor τὸν ἀρραβῶνα τοῦ Πνεύματος 1 the pledge of the Spirit The Spirit is spoken of as if he was a partial downpayment toward eternal life. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-metaphor]])
2CO 1 23 j8lc ἐγὼ δὲ μάρτυρα τὸν Θεὸν ἐπικαλοῦμαι ἐπὶ τὴν ἐμὴν ψυχήν 1 Now I call God as a witness to my soul 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 1 23 j15t ὅτι φειδόμενος ὑμῶν 1 so that I might spare you “so that I might not cause you more suffering”
2CO 1 24 cyu4 συνεργοί ἐσμεν τῆς χαρᾶς ὑμῶν 1 we are fellow workers with you for your joy “we are working with you so that you may have joy”
2CO 1 24 cih8 figs-idiom τῇ…πίστει ἑστήκατε 1 you stand firm in the 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 2 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.
2CO 2 1 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 2 1 x9s5 ἔκρινα γὰρ ἐμαυτῷ 1 I personally decided “I made the decision”
2CO 2 1 ij73 ἐν λύπῃ 1 in sorrow “in circumstances that would cause you pain”
2CO 2 2 nb6x figs-rquestion εἰ γὰρ ἐγὼ λυπῶ ὑμᾶς, καὶ τίς ὁ εὐφραίνων με, εἰ μὴ ὁ λυπούμενος ἐξ ἐμοῦ? 1 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 2 2 x2vr figs-activepassive ὁ λυπούμενος ἐξ ἐμοῦ 1 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 2 3 kxu2 figs-explicit ἔγραψα τοῦτο αὐτὸ 1 I wrote this same thing 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 2 3 v87i figs-activepassive μὴ…λύπην σχῶ ἀφ’ ὧν ἔδει με χαίρειν 1 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 2 4 vs7m figs-metonymy συνοχῆς καρδίας 1 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 2 4 d5vf διὰ πολλῶν δακρύων 1 with many tears “with much crying”
2CO 2 6 iy4r figs-activepassive ἱκανὸν τῷ τοιούτῳ ἡ ἐπιτιμία αὕτη, ἡ ὑπὸ τῶν πλειόνων 1 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 2 7 vpx1 figs-activepassive μή…τῇ περισσοτέρᾳ λύπῃ, καταποθῇ 1 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 2 8 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 2 8 yi2z κυρῶσαι εἰς αὐτὸν ἀγάπην 1 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 2 9 xw5t figs-explicit εἰς πάντα ὑπήκοοί ἐστε 1 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 2 10 lzp6 figs-activepassive δι’ ὑμᾶς 1 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 2 11 m46t figs-litotes οὐ γὰρ αὐτοῦ τὰ νοήματα ἀγνοοῦμεν 1 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 2 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 2 12 a1ti figs-metaphor εἰς τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τοῦ Χριστοῦ, καὶ θύρας μοι ἀνεῳγμένης ἐν Κυρίῳ 1 a door for the gospel of Christ was opened to me in the Lord 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 2 14 gpd2 figs-metaphor τῷ…Θεῷ…τῷ πάντοτε θριαμβεύοντι ἡμᾶς ἐν τῷ Χριστῷ 1 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 2 14 l1nr figs-metaphor τὴν ὀσμὴν τῆς γνώσεως αὐτοῦ, φανεροῦντι δι’ ἡμῶν ἐν παντὶ τόπῳ 1 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 2 15 x6nn figs-metaphor Χριστοῦ εὐωδία ἐσμὲν τῷ Θεῷ 1 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 2 15 b1k1 Χριστοῦ εὐωδία ἐσμὲν τῷ Θεῷ 1 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 2 15 itc8 figs-activepassive τοῖς σῳζομένοις 1 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 2 16 dwk6 figs-metaphor ὀσμὴ 1 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 2 16 ud2u figs-doublet ὀσμὴ ἐκ θανάτου εἰς θάνατον 1 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 2 16 v2n3 figs-activepassive οἷς 1 to the other This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “the ones whom God is saving” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 2 16 cdr3 figs-doublet ὀσμὴ ἐκ ζωῆς εἰς ζωήν 1 a fragrance 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 2 16 be6x figs-rquestion πρὸς ταῦτα τίς ἱκανός? 1 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 2 17 a5sa figs-metonymy καπηλεύοντες τὸν λόγον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 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 2 17 u2zb ἐν Χριστῷ λαλοῦμεν 1 we speak in Christ “we speak as people who are joined to Christ” or “we speak with the authority of Christ”
2CO 2 17 q4dc figs-ellipsis κατέναντι Θεοῦ 1 before 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 3 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]])
2CO 3 1 um8x figs-rquestion ἀρχόμεθα πάλιν ἑαυτοὺς συνιστάνειν? 1 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 3 1 y8yc figs-rquestion ἢ μὴ χρῄζομεν, ὥς τινες, συστατικῶν ἐπιστολῶν πρὸς ὑμᾶς ἢ ἐξ ὑμῶν? 1 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 3 1 ad1u συστατικῶν ἐπιστολῶν 1 letters of recommendation This is a letter that a person writes to introduce and give their approval of someone else.
2CO 3 2 ty59 figs-metaphor ἡ ἐπιστολὴ ἡμῶν ὑμεῖς ἐστε 1 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 3 2 v2e7 figs-metonymy ἐνγεγραμμένη ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ἡμῶν 1 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 3 2 bu1u figs-activepassive ἐνγεγραμμένη ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ἡμῶν 1 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 3 2 dr5k figs-activepassive γινωσκομένη καὶ ἀναγινωσκομένη ὑπὸ πάντων ἀνθρώπων 1 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 3 3 s717 figs-metaphor ἐστὲ ἐπιστολὴ Χριστοῦ 1 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 3 3 wrk4 διακονηθεῖσα ὑφ’ ἡμῶν 1 cared for by us “brought by us”
2CO 3 3 q96q ἐνγεγραμμένη οὐ μέλανι…ἐν πλαξὶν καρδίαις σαρκίναις 1 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 3 3 qt5g figs-activepassive ἐνγεγραμμένη οὐ μέλανι, ἀλλὰ Πνεύματι Θεοῦ ζῶντος 1 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 3 3 t5ah figs-activepassive οὐκ ἐν πλαξὶν λιθίναις, ἀλλ’ ἐν πλαξὶν καρδίαις σαρκίναις 1 not 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 3 3 u959 figs-metaphor πλαξὶν καρδίαις σαρκίναις 1 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 3 4 z7qx πεποίθησιν δὲ τοιαύτην 1 such 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 3 5 qye9 ἀφ’ ἑαυτῶν ἱκανοί 1 competent in ourselves “qualified in ourselves” or “sufficient in ourselves”
2CO 3 5 e5e7 figs-explicit λογίσασθαί τι ὡς ἐξ ἑαυτῶν 1 to consider 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 3 5 wi1t ἡ ἱκανότης ἡμῶν ἐκ τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 our competence is from God “God gives us our sufficiency”
2CO 3 6 dp6i figs-synecdoche καινῆς διαθήκης, οὐ γράμματος 1 a new 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 3 6 tc4u figs-ellipsis ἀλλὰ Πνεύματος 1 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 3 6 q4at figs-personification τὸ…γράμμα ἀποκτέννει 1 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 3 7 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 3 7 ut6r figs-irony εἰ δὲ ἡ διακονία τοῦ θανάτου…ἐγενήθη ἐν δόξῃ, ὥστε 1 Now if the ministry 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 3 7 du65 figs-explicit ἡ διακονία τοῦ θανάτου 1 the ministry that produced death “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 3 7 j1hp figs-activepassive ἐν γράμμασιν ἐντετυπωμένη λίθοις 1 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 3 7 r5p5 ἐν δόξῃ, ὥστε 1 in such glory “in so much glory”
2CO 3 7 y11c διὰ 1 because of “They could not look because”
2CO 3 8 xxn6 figs-rquestion πῶς οὐχὶ μᾶλλον ἡ διακονία τοῦ Πνεύματος ἔσται ἐν δόξῃ? 1 Will the ministry of the Spirit not be with much more glory? 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 3 8 wq1v figs-explicit ἡ διακονία τοῦ Πνεύματος 1 the ministry of the Spirit “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 3 9 k779 figs-explicit τῇ διακονίᾳ τῆς κατακρίσεως 1 the ministry 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 3 9 if33 figs-exclamations πολλῷ μᾶλλον περισσεύει ἡ διακονία τῆς δικαιοσύνης δόξῃ 1 how much more does the ministry 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 3 9 e5zz figs-metaphor περισσεύει ἡ διακονία τῆς δικαιοσύνης δόξῃ. 1 the ministry 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 3 9 ufq6 figs-explicit ἡ διακονία τῆς δικαιοσύνης 1 the ministry 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 3 10 n4pe καὶ γὰρ οὐ δεδόξασται, τὸ δεδοξασμένον…εἵνεκεν τῆς ὑπερβαλλούσης δόξης 1 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 3 10 t2dq figs-activepassive τὸ δεδοξασμένον 1 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 3 10 d7k5 ἐν τούτῳ τῷ μέρει 1 in this respect “in this way”
2CO 3 11 zwb2 figs-metaphor τὸ καταργούμενον 1 that which was fading 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 3 12 tnc1 ἔχοντες οὖν τοιαύτην ἐλπίδα 1 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 3 12 u5qa τοιαύτην ἐλπίδα 1 such a hope “such confidence”
2CO 3 13 p5u2 figs-explicit τὸ τέλος τοῦ καταργουμένου 1 the end of that which was fading 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 3 14 zvf5 figs-metaphor ἀλλὰ ἐπωρώθη τὰ νοήματα αὐτῶν 1 But their minds were hardened “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 3 14 w68p figs-metaphor τὸ αὐτὸ κάλυμμα ἐπὶ τῇ ἀναγνώσει τῆς παλαιᾶς διαθήκης μένει 1 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 3 14 gg2d ἐπὶ τῇ ἀναγνώσει τῆς παλαιᾶς διαθήκης 1 when they read the old covenant “when they hear someone read the old covenant”
2CO 3 14 gl8l figs-activepassive μὴ ἀνακαλυπτόμενον, ὅτι ἐν Χριστῷ καταργεῖται 1 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 3 15 t3dl figs-metonymy ἡνίκα ἂν ἀναγινώσκηται Μωϋσῆς 1 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 3 15 gwp9 figs-metonymy κάλυμμα ἐπὶ τὴν καρδίαν αὐτῶν κεῖται 1 a veil lies over their heart 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 3 16 k2dr figs-metaphor ἡνίκα…ἐὰν ἐπιστρέψῃ πρὸς Κύριον 1 whenever 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 3 16 w1y2 figs-activepassive περιαιρεῖται τὸ κάλυμμα 1 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 3 18 r6rx figs-inclusive ἡμεῖς δὲ πάντες 1 Now we all Here the word “us” refers to all believers, including Paul and the Corinthians. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])
2CO 3 18 l3xw figs-metaphor ἀνακεκαλυμμένῳ προσώπῳ, τὴν δόξαν Κυρίου κατοπτριζόμενοι 1 with unveiled faces, see as a reflection 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 3 18 rc9x figs-activepassive τὴν αὐτὴν εἰκόνα μεταμορφούμεθα 1 are being transformed into the same image 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 3 18 bx5b ἀπὸ δόξης εἰς δόξαν 1 from glory to glory “from one amount of glory to another amount of glory.” This means that the Spirit is constantly increasing the glory of believers.
2CO 3 18 mw3v καθάπερ ἀπὸ Κυρίου 1 just as from the Lord “just as this comes from the Lord”
2CO 4 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]])
2CO 4 1 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 4 1 ix7n figs-exclusive ἔχοντες τὴν διακονίαν ταύτην 1 having 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 4 1 h1ud figs-explicit καθὼς ἠλεήθημεν 1 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 4 2 yp4g ἀπειπάμεθα τὰ κρυπτὰ τῆς αἰσχύνης 1 we have rejected the shameful hidden things This means that Paul and his coworkers refused to do “secret and shameful” things. It does not mean that they had done these things in the past.
2CO 4 2 z4c2 figs-hendiadys τὰ κρυπτὰ τῆς αἰσχύνης 1 the shameful hidden things 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 4 2 ey75 περιπατοῦντες ἐν πανουργίᾳ 1 walking in craftiness “live by deception”
2CO 4 2 gp3g figs-doublenegatives μηδὲ δολοῦντες τὸν λόγον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 not distorting 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 4 2 aj24 συνιστάνοντες ἑαυτοὺς πρὸς πᾶσαν συνείδησιν ἀνθρώπων 1 commending ourselves to every person’s conscience This means that they provide enough evidence for each person who hears them to decide whether they are right or wrong.
2CO 4 2 f6n1 figs-metaphor ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 before 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 4 3 mti5 figs-metaphor εἰ δὲ καὶ ἔστιν κεκαλυμμένον τὸ εὐαγγέλιον ἡμῶν, ἐν τοῖς ἀπολλυμένοις ἐστὶν κεκαλυμμένον 1 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 4 3 hz2f figs-activepassive εἰ…ἔστιν κεκαλυμμένον τὸ εὐαγγέλιον ἡμῶν…ἐστὶν κεκαλυμμένον 1 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 4 3 e5yu τὸ εὐαγγέλιον ἡμῶν 1 our gospel “the gospel that we preach”
2CO 4 4 r6pz figs-metaphor ὁ θεὸς τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου ἐτύφλωσεν τὰ νοήματα τῶν ἀπίστων 1 the god of this age has blinded the minds of the unbelieving 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 4 4 tx9h ὁ θεὸς τοῦ αἰῶνος τούτου 1 the god of this world “the god who rules this world.” This phrase refers to Satan.
2CO 4 4 z4yp figs-metaphor μὴ αὐγάσαι τὸν φωτισμὸν τοῦ εὐαγγελίου τῆς δόξης τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 they do not 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 4 4 j1vz τὸν φωτισμὸν τοῦ εὐαγγελίου 1 the light of the gospel “the light that comes from the gospel”
2CO 4 4 rdj3 τοῦ εὐαγγελίου τῆς δόξης τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 the gospel of the glory of Christ “the gospel about the Christ’s glory”
2CO 4 5 ddw1 figs-ellipsis ἀλλὰ Ἰησοῦν Χριστὸν Κύριον, ἑαυτοὺς δὲ δούλους ὑμῶν 1 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 4 5 t8du διὰ Ἰησοῦν 1 for Jesus’ sake “because of Jesus”
2CO 4 6 rw5z ἐκ σκότους φῶς λάμψει 1 Light will shine out of darkness With this sentence, Paul refers to God creating light, as described in the book of Genesis.
2CO 4 6 d5x7 figs-metaphor ὃς ἔλαμψεν…πρὸς φωτισμὸν τῆς γνώσεως τῆς δόξης τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 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 4 6 bj1j figs-metonymy ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ἡμῶν 1 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 4 6 mpg9 πρὸς φωτισμὸν τῆς γνώσεως τῆς δόξης τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 the light of the knowledge of the glory of God “the light, which is the knowledge of the glory of God”
2CO 4 6 p736 figs-metaphor τῆς δόξης τοῦ Θεοῦ ἐν προσώπῳ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 the glory of God in the face 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 4 7 xe5i figs-exclusive ἔχομεν δὲ 1 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 4 7 xx2c figs-metaphor ἔχομεν…τὸν θησαυρὸν τοῦτον ἐν ὀστρακίνοις σκεύεσιν 1 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 4 8 ga9z figs-activepassive ἐν παντὶ θλιβόμενοι 1 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 4 9 bz8m figs-activepassive διωκόμενοι, ἀλλ’ οὐκ ἐνκαταλειπόμενοι 1 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 4 9 uvq1 figs-activepassive καταβαλλόμενοι, ἀλλ’ οὐκ ἀπολλύμενοι 1 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 4 9 z8np καταβαλλόμενοι, ἀλλ’ οὐκ ἀπολλύμενοι 1 We are struck down “We are hurt badly”
2CO 4 10 zt4b figs-metaphor πάντοτε τὴν νέκρωσιν τοῦ Ἰησοῦ ἐν τῷ σώματι περιφέροντες 1 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 4 10 l6f6 ἡ ζωὴ τοῦ Ἰησοῦ ἐν τῷ σώματι ἡμῶν φανερωθῇ 1 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 4 10 w3jc figs-activepassive ἡ ζωὴ τοῦ Ἰησοῦ ἐν τῷ σώματι ἡμῶν φανερωθῇ 1 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 4 11 ht74 figs-metaphor ἀεὶ γὰρ ἡμεῖς, οἱ ζῶντες, εἰς θάνατον παραδιδόμεθα διὰ Ἰησοῦν 1 For we who are alive are always being handed over to death for the sake 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 4 11 d1wm ἵνα καὶ ἡ ζωὴ τοῦ Ἰησοῦ φανερωθῇ ἐν τῇ θνητῇ σαρκὶ ἡμῶν 1 so that the life of Jesus may be shown in our mortal flesh 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 4 11 ww5r figs-activepassive ἵνα καὶ ἡ ζωὴ τοῦ Ἰησοῦ φανερωθῇ ἐν τῇ θνητῇ σαρκὶ ἡμῶν 1 so that the life of Jesus may be shown in our mortal flesh 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 4 12 q3il figs-personification ὁ θάνατος ἐν ἡμῖν ἐνεργεῖται, ἡ δὲ ζωὴ ἐν ὑμῖν 1 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 4 13 ret6 τὸ αὐτὸ πνεῦμα τῆς πίστεως 1 the same spirit of faith “the same attitude of faith.” Here the word “spirit” refers a person’s attitude and temperament.
2CO 4 13 gzf4 figs-activepassive κατὰ τὸ γεγραμμένον 1 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 4 14 t2i8 figs-idiom ὅτι ὁ ἐγείρας τὸν Ἰησοῦν…ἐγερεῖ 1 that the one who raised the Lord Jesus will…raise 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 4 15 v7sj τὰ γὰρ πάντα δι’ ὑμᾶς 1 For all these things are for your sake Here the word “everything” refers to all of the sufferings that Paul has described in previous verses.
2CO 4 15 l1mu figs-activepassive ἡ χάρις πλεονάσασα διὰ τῶν πλειόνων 1 the grace that is abounding to more and more 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 4 15 u8pp figs-metaphor τὴν εὐχαριστίαν περισσεύσῃ 1 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 4 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 4 16 cb92 figs-doublenegatives διὸ οὐκ ἐνκακοῦμεν 1 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 4 16 hhv6 figs-explicit ὁ ἔξω ἡμῶν ἄνθρωπος διαφθείρεται 1 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 4 16 s9b2 figs-explicit ὁ ἔσω ἡμῶν ἀνακαινοῦται ἡμέρᾳ καὶ ἡμέρᾳ 1 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 4 16 zct5 figs-activepassive ὁ ἔσω ἡμῶν ἀνακαινοῦται ἡμέρᾳ καὶ ἡμέρᾳ 1 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 4 17 pd63 figs-metaphor τὸ γὰρ παραυτίκα ἐλαφρὸν τῆς θλίψεως ἡμῶν…αἰώνιον βάρος δόξης, κατεργάζεται ἡμῖν 1 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 4 17 na9y figs-metaphor καθ’ ὑπερβολὴν εἰς ὑπερβολὴν 1 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 4 18 t2fp figs-activepassive τὰ βλεπόμενα…τὰ μὴ βλεπόμενα 1 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 4 18 f97x figs-ellipsis τὰ δὲ μὴ βλεπόμενα 1 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 5 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]])
2CO 5 1 p7b7 0 Connecting Statement: Paul continues by contrasting believers’ earthly bodies to the heavenly ones God will give.
2CO 5 1 z4vs figs-metaphor ἐὰν ἡ ἐπίγειος ἡμῶν οἰκία τοῦ σκήνους καταλυθῇ, οἰκοδομὴν ἐκ Θεοῦ ἔχομεν 1 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 5 1 zy2k figs-activepassive ἐὰν ἡ ἐπίγειος ἡμῶν οἰκία τοῦ σκήνους καταλυθῇ 1 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 5 1 bqi5 figs-activepassive οἰκίαν ἀχειροποίητον 1 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 5 2 tc2j ἐν τούτῳ στενάζομεν 1 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 5 2 ss6g figs-metaphor τὸ οἰκητήριον ἡμῶν τὸ ἐξ οὐρανοῦ ἐπενδύσασθαι ἐπιποθοῦντες 1 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 5 3 i4es ἐνδυσάμενοι 1 we have put it on “by putting on our heavenly dwelling”
2CO 5 3 ap7v figs-activepassive οὐ γυμνοὶ εὑρεθησόμεθα 1 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 5 4 bz6k figs-metaphor οἱ ὄντες ἐν τῷ σκήνει 1 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 5 4 e34b ἐν τῷ σκήνει, στενάζομεν 1 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 5 4 cjt4 figs-metaphor βαρούμενοι 1 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 5 4 f8rb figs-metaphor οὐ θέλομεν ἐκδύσασθαι…ἐπενδύσασθαι 1 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 5 4 n78p ἐκδύσασθαι 1 to be unclothed “to be without clothes” or “to be naked”
2CO 5 4 de2b figs-metaphor ἵνα καταποθῇ τὸ θνητὸν ὑπὸ τῆς ζωῆς 1 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 5 4 e5zi figs-activepassive ἵνα καταποθῇ τὸ θνητὸν ὑπὸ τῆς ζωῆς 1 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 5 5 g7yj figs-metaphor ὁ δοὺς ἡμῖν τὸν ἀρραβῶνα τοῦ Πνεύματος 1 who gave us the Spirit as the down payment 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 5 6 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 5 6 xv3m figs-metaphor ἐνδημοῦντες ἐν τῷ σώματι 1 being 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 5 6 ebl4 ἐκδημοῦμεν ἀπὸ τοῦ Κυρίου 1 we are away from the Lord “we are not at home with the Lord” or “we are not in heaven with the Lord”
2CO 5 7 rfn4 figs-metaphor διὰ πίστεως…περιπατοῦμεν, οὐ διὰ εἴδους 1 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 5 8 a6au εὐδοκοῦμεν, μᾶλλον ἐκδημῆσαι ἐκ τοῦ σώματος 1 we would rather be away from the body Here the word “body” refers to the physical body.
2CO 5 8 i3m3 ἐνδημῆσαι πρὸς τὸν Κύριον 1 at home with the Lord “at home with the Lord in heaven”
2CO 5 9 ml5j figs-ellipsis εἴτε ἐνδημοῦντες εἴτε ἐκδημοῦντες 1 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 5 9 j1sl εὐάρεστοι αὐτῷ εἶναι 1 to be pleasing to him “to please the Lord”
2CO 5 10 kdf2 ἔμπροσθεν τοῦ βήματος τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 before the judgment seat of Christ “before Christ to be judged”
2CO 5 10 c499 κομίσηται ἕκαστος τὰ διὰ 0 each one may receive back the things done in “each person may receive what he deserves”
2CO 5 10 v8sl figs-activepassive τὰ διὰ τοῦ σώματος 1 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 5 10 lsh8 εἴτε ἀγαθὸν εἴτε κακὸν 1 whether for good or for bad “whether those things were good or bad”
2CO 5 11 qm34 figs-explicit ἀνθρώπους πείθομεν 1 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 5 11 v11v figs-activepassive Θεῷ…πεφανερώμεθα 1 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 5 11 y5l1 καὶ ἐν ταῖς συνειδήσεσιν ὑμῶν πεφανερῶσθαι 1 that it is also clear to your conscience “that you are also convinced of it”
2CO 5 12 mza1 ἵνα ἔχητε 1 so you may have an answer “so you may have something to say to”
2CO 5 12 it2r figs-metonymy τοὺς ἐν προσώπῳ καυχωμένους, καὶ μὴ ἐν καρδίᾳ 1 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 5 13 cy57 figs-idiom εἴτε…ἐξέστημεν…εἴτε σωφρονοῦμεν 1 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 5 14 nd9g ὑπὲρ πάντων ἀπέθανεν 1 died for all “died for all people”
2CO 5 15 h831 τῷ ὑπὲρ αὐτῶν ἀποθανόντι καὶ ἐγερθέντι 1 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 5 15 ri6f ὑπὲρ αὐτῶν 1 for them Possible meanings are (1) these words refer only to “died” or (2) these words refer to both “died” and “was raised.”
2CO 5 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 5 17 tl3h figs-metaphor καινὴ κτίσις 1 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 5 17 ue8f τὰ ἀρχαῖα παρῆλθεν 1 The old things have passed away Here “the old things” refers to the things that characterized a person before they trusted in Christ.
2CO 5 17 vpe3 ἰδοὺ 1 See The word “See” here alerts us to pay attention to the surprising information that follows.
2CO 5 18 jyf7 τὰ…πάντα 1 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 5 18 lj2h figs-abstractnouns τὴν διακονίαν τῆς καταλλαγῆς 1 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 5 19 gvl2 ὡς ὅτι 1 That is “This means”
2CO 5 19 w1d1 figs-metonymy ἐν Χριστῷ κόσμον καταλλάσσων ἑαυτῷ 1 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 5 19 b62q θέμενος ἐν ἡμῖν τὸν λόγον τῆς καταλλαγῆς 1 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 5 19 ix97 τὸν λόγον τῆς καταλλαγῆς 1 the message of reconciliation “the message about reconciliation”
2CO 5 20 wg8f figs-activepassive ὑπὲρ Χριστοῦ οὖν πρεσβεύομεν 1 Therefore, we are ambassadors for 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 5 20 a6fx figs-activepassive καταλλάγητε τῷ Θεῷ 1 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 5 21 jp2a τὸν μὴ γνόντα ἁμαρτίαν, ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν ἁμαρτίαν ἐποίησεν 1 The one who did not know sin, he made sin for us “God made Christ become the sacrifice for our sin”
2CO 5 21 hz6z figs-inclusive ἡμῶν…ἡμεῖς 1 us…we Here the words “our” and “we” are inclusive and refer to all believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])
2CO 5 21 kmt9 figs-explicit ἵνα ἡμεῖς γενώμεθα δικαιοσύνη Θεοῦ ἐν αὐτῷ 1 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 6 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.
2CO 6 1 tbr6 figs-explicit συνεργοῦντες 1 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 6 1 s8db figs-doublenegatives καὶ, παρακαλοῦμεν μὴ εἰς κενὸν τὴν χάριν τοῦ Θεοῦ δέξασθαι ὑμᾶς 1 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 6 2 u9kc figs-explicit λέγει γάρ 1 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 6 2 sa94 ἰδοὺ 1 Look The word “Look” here alerts us to pay attention to the surprising information that follows.
2CO 6 3 v3wc figs-metaphor μηδεμίαν ἐν μηδενὶ διδόντες προσκοπήν 1 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 6 3 he3c figs-activepassive μὴ μωμηθῇ ἡ διακονία 1 our ministry might not 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 6 4 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 6 4 p9up ἐν παντὶ συνιστάντες ἑαυτοὺς ὡς Θεοῦ διάκονοι 1 we commend ourselves in everything as God’s servants “We prove that we are God’s servants by all that we do”
2CO 6 4 xyf9 Θεοῦ διάκονοι: ἐν ὑπομονῇ πολλῇ, ἐν θλίψεσιν, ἐν ἀνάγκαις, ἐν στενοχωρίαις 1 God’s servants; in much endurance, affliction, distress, hardship Paul mentions various difficult situations in which they proved that they are God’s servants.
2CO 6 5 it8g ἐν πληγαῖς, ἐν φυλακαῖς, ἐν ἀκαταστασίαις, ἐν κόποις, ἐν ἀγρυπνίαις, ἐν νηστείαις 1 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 6 6 w84c ἐν ἁγνότητι…ἐν ἀγάπῃ ἀνυποκρίτῳ 1 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 6 7 b6am ἐν λόγῳ ἀληθείας, ἐν δυνάμει Θεοῦ 1 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 6 7 dui6 ἐν λόγῳ ἀληθείας 1 in the word of truth “by speaking God’s message about truth” or “by speaking God’s true message”
2CO 6 7 p5l5 ἐν δυνάμει Θεοῦ 1 in the power of God “by showing God’s power to people”
2CO 6 7 ven8 figs-metaphor διὰ τῶν ὅπλων τῆς δικαιοσύνης τῶν δεξιῶν καὶ ἀριστερῶν 1 through the weapons 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 6 7 ijr2 τῶν δεξιῶν καὶ ἀριστερῶν 1 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 6 8 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 6 8 e4pf figs-activepassive ὡς πλάνοι 1 as imposters This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “People accuse us of being deceitful” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 6 9 fcb5 figs-activepassive ὡς ἀγνοούμενοι καὶ ἐπιγινωσκόμενοι 1 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 6 9 r1d9 figs-activepassive ὡς παιδευόμενοι καὶ μὴ θανατούμενοι 1 as being punished, and yet not being killed 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 6 11 v74j τὸ στόμα ἡμῶν ἀνέῳγεν πρὸς ὑμᾶς 1 Our mouth has been opened to you “spoken honestly to you”
2CO 6 11 mv85 figs-metaphor ἡ καρδία ἡμῶν πεπλάτυνται 1 our heart is opened wide 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 6 12 xv9t figs-metaphor οὐ στενοχωρεῖσθε ἐν ἡμῖν, στενοχωρεῖσθε δὲ ἐν τοῖς σπλάγχνοις ὑμῶν 1 You are not restrained by us, but you are restrained in your affections 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 6 12 u4fz figs-activepassive οὐ στενοχωρεῖσθε ἐν ἡμῖν 1 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 6 12 ecn4 figs-activepassive στενοχωρεῖσθε…ἐν τοῖς σπλάγχνοις ὑμῶν 1 you are restrained in your affections 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 6 13 c6vp figs-metaphor πλατύνθητε καὶ ὑμεῖς 1 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 6 14 wj41 0 General Information: In verse 16, Paul paraphrases portions from several Old Testament prophets: Moses, Zechariah, Amos, and possibly others.
2CO 6 14 v7kk figs-doublenegatives μὴ γίνεσθε ἑτεροζυγοῦντες ἀπίστοις 1 Do not be yoked 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 6 14 qd33 figs-metaphor μὴ γίνεσθε ἑτεροζυγοῦντες 1 be yoked 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 6 14 v7pw figs-rquestion τίς γὰρ μετοχὴ δικαιοσύνῃ καὶ ἀνομίᾳ 1 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 6 14 xr52 figs-rquestion ἢ τίς κοινωνία φωτὶ πρὸς σκότος? 1 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 6 15 r1vq figs-rquestion τίς δὲ συμφώνησις Χριστοῦ πρὸς Βελιάρ 1 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 6 15 z9iv figs-rquestion ἢ τίς μερὶς πιστῷ μετὰ ἀπίστου? 1 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 6 16 y99x figs-rquestion τίς δὲ συνκατάθεσις ναῷ Θεοῦ μετὰ εἰδώλων? 1 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 6 16 s3l8 figs-metaphor ἡμεῖς γὰρ ναὸς Θεοῦ ἐσμεν ζῶντος 1 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 6 16 u5g3 figs-parallelism ἐνοικήσω ἐν αὐτοῖς, καὶ ἐνπεριπατήσω 1 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 6 17 z5ld figs-activepassive ἀφορίσθητε 1 be separate 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 6 17 c8jq figs-doublenegatives ἀκαθάρτου μὴ ἅπτεσθε 1 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 7 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]])
2CO 7 1 h5xv ἀγαπητοί 1 Beloved “You whom I love” or “Dear friends”
2CO 7 1 fv49 καθαρίσωμεν ἑαυτοὺς 1 let us cleanse ourselves Here Paul is saying to stay away from any form of sin that would affect one’s relationship with God.
2CO 7 1 c2xf ἐπιτελοῦντες ἁγιωσύνην 1 perfecting holiness “Let us strive to be holy”
2CO 7 1 pt41 ἐν φόβῳ Θεοῦ 1 in the fear of God “out of deep respect for God”
2CO 7 2 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 7 2 x3lg figs-metaphor χωρήσατε ἡμᾶς 1 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 7 3 bhb7 πρὸς κατάκρισιν οὐ λέγω 1 I do not speak for your condemnation “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 7 3 fay3 figs-metaphor ἐν ταῖς καρδίαις ἡμῶν ἐστε 1 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 7 3 xzg3 figs-idiom εἰς τὸ συναποθανεῖν καὶ συνζῆν 1 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 7 3 jt6b figs-inclusive εἰς τὸ συναποθανεῖν 1 for us to die “us” includes the Corinthian believers. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-inclusive]])
2CO 7 4 mh12 figs-activepassive πεπλήρωμαι τῇ παρακλήσει 1 I am filled with encouragement This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “You fill me with comfort” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 7 4 mx9b figs-metaphor ὑπερπερισσεύομαι τῇ χαρᾷ 1 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 7 4 mr75 ἐπὶ πάσῃ τῇ θλίψει ἡμῶν 0 even in all our afflictions “despite all our hardships”
2CO 7 5 f3c5 figs-exclusive ἐλθόντων ἡμῶν εἰς Μακεδονίαν 1 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 7 5 c8ju figs-synecdoche οὐδεμίαν ἔσχηκεν ἄνεσιν ἡ σὰρξ ἡμῶν 1 our flesh 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 7 5 h3cv figs-activepassive ἐν παντὶ θλιβόμενοι 1 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 7 5 i4wr figs-explicit ἔξωθεν μάχαι, ἔσωθεν φόβοι 1 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 7 7 w7td figs-explicit ἐν τῇ παρακλήσει ᾗ παρεκλήθη ἐφ’ ὑμῖν 1 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 7 8 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 7 9 kn5q figs-activepassive οὐχ ὅτι ἐλυπήθητε 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 7 9 l6d2 figs-idiom ἐν μηδενὶ ζημιωθῆτε ἐξ ἡμῶν 1 you would not suffer loss in anything through 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 7 10 dtm3 figs-ellipsis ἡ γὰρ κατὰ Θεὸν λύπη, μετάνοιαν εἰς σωτηρίαν 1 For the sorrow that God intends produces repentance that leads to 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 7 10 lc4m ἀμεταμέλητον 1 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 7 10 lc1s figs-explicit ἡ δὲ τοῦ κόσμου λύπη, θάνατον κατεργάζεται 1 But the sorrow of the world produces 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 7 11 l24s ἰδοὺ γὰρ αὐτὸ τοῦτο 1 For see what this very same thing “Look and see for yourselves what great determination”
2CO 7 11 gpp2 figs-exclamations σπουδήν: ἀλλὰ ἀπολογίαν 1 what earnestness, what eagerness to defend yourselves 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 7 11 h6jc figs-activepassive ἀλλὰ ἐκδίκησιν 1 what avenging of wrong This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “that someone should carry out justice” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 7 12 w6ls τοῦ ἀδικήσαντος 1 the one who did wrong “the one who did wrong”
2CO 7 12 i6sn figs-activepassive τοῦ φανερωθῆναι τὴν σπουδὴν ὑμῶν, τὴν ὑπὲρ ἡμῶν πρὸς ὑμᾶς ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 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 7 12 ycy7 figs-metaphor ἐνώπιον τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 before 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 7 13 kn2q figs-activepassive διὰ τοῦτο παρακεκλήμεθα 1 For this reason 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 7 13 v2g6 figs-activepassive ἀναπέπαυται τὸ πνεῦμα αὐτοῦ ἀπὸ πάντων ὑμῶν 1 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 7 14 b4uq ὅτι εἴ τι αὐτῷ ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν κεκαύχημαι 1 For if I boasted to him about you “For although I boasted to him about you”
2CO 7 14 m22c οὐ κατῃσχύνθην 1 I was not embarrassed “you did not disappoint me”
2CO 7 14 q5hg ἡ καύχησις ἡμῶν ἡ ἐπὶ Τίτου ἀλήθεια ἐγενήθη 1 our boasting about you to Titus proved to be true “you proved that our boasting about you to Titus was true”
2CO 7 15 d87j figs-abstractnouns τὴν πάντων ὑμῶν ὑπακοήν 1 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 7 15 g9bz figs-doublet μετὰ φόβου καὶ τρόμου ἐδέξασθε αὐτόν 1 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 7 15 q47h μετὰ φόβου καὶ τρόμου 1 with fear and trembling Possible meanings are (1) “with great reverence for God” or (2) “with great reverence for Titus.”
2CO 8 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))
2CO 8 1 d1mj figs-activepassive τὴν χάριν τοῦ Θεοῦ τὴν δεδομένην ἐν ταῖς ἐκκλησίαις τῆς Μακεδονίας 1 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 8 2 fsq8 figs-personification ἡ περισσεία τῆς χαρᾶς αὐτῶν καὶ ἡ κατὰ βάθους πτωχεία αὐτῶν, ἐπερίσσευσεν εἰς τὸ πλοῦτος τῆς ἁπλότητος αὐτῶν 1 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 8 2 b7k5 figs-metaphor ἡ περισσεία τῆς χαρᾶς αὐτῶν 1 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 8 2 pr8c ἡ κατὰ βάθους πτωχεία αὐτῶν…τὸ πλοῦτος τῆς ἁπλότητος αὐτῶν 1 their deep poverty…the riches of their 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 8 2 z6mt τὸ πλοῦτος τῆς ἁπλότητος αὐτῶν 1 the riches of their generosity “a very great generosity.” The words “great riches” emphasize the greatness of their generosity.
2CO 8 4 nmw8 figs-explicit τῆς διακονίας τῆς εἰς τοὺς ἁγίους 1 this ministry to the saints 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 8 6 z42y figs-explicit προενήρξατο 1 he 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 8 6 vn4u figs-explicit ἐπιτελέσῃ εἰς ὑμᾶς καὶ τὴν χάριν ταύτην 1 he would 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 8 7 fpe1 figs-metaphor ἐν ταύτῃ τῇ χάριτι περισσεύητε 1 you should abound 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 8 8 wn2k figs-explicit διὰ τῆς ἑτέρων σπουδῆς…δοκιμάζων 1 to test…through the diligence of others 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 8 9 c1ch τὴν χάριν τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν 1 the grace of our Lord In this context, the word “grace” emphasizes the generosity with which Jesus had blessed the Corinthians.
2CO 8 9 iz6z figs-metaphor δι’ ὑμᾶς ἐπτώχευσεν, πλούσιος ὤν 1 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 8 9 j5ym figs-metaphor ὑμεῖς τῇ ἐκείνου πτωχείᾳ πλουτήσητε 1 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 8 10 b7ht figs-explicit ἐν τούτῳ 1 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 8 11 fc27 figs-abstractnouns καθάπερ ἡ προθυμία τοῦ θέλειν 1 there was the readiness of your desire 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 8 11 d6ly καὶ τὸ ἐπιτελέσαι 1 there may be the completion “complete it” or “finish it”
2CO 8 12 in3v figs-doublet εὐπρόσδεκτος 1 it is acceptable 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 8 12 k9wh καθὸ ἐὰν ἔχῃ 1 according to whatever a person has “Giving must be based on what a person has”
2CO 8 13 mp6k figs-explicit γὰρ 1 For this 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 8 13 smk2 figs-activepassive ἵνα ἄλλοις ἄνεσις, ὑμῖν θλῖψις 1 for the ease of others, and your affliction 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 8 13 ktd1 ἐξ ἰσότητος 1 for the sake of equality “there should be equality”
2CO 8 14 v7aj ἵνα καὶ τὸ ἐκείνων περίσσευμα γένηται εἰς τὸ ὑμῶν ὑστέρημα 1 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 8 15 ue8w figs-activepassive καθὼς γέγραπται 1 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 8 15 u28y figs-doublenegatives οὐκ ἠλαττόνησεν 1 did not have too little This can be stated positively. Alternate translation: “had all he needed” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-doublenegatives]])
2CO 8 16 cr18 figs-synecdoche τῷ διδόντι τὴν αὐτὴν σπουδὴν ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ Τίτου 1 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 8 16 vsm3 τὴν αὐτὴν σπουδὴν 1 same earnest care “the same enthusiasm” or “same deep concern”
2CO 8 17 e4xn figs-explicit ὅτι τὴν μὲν παράκλησιν ἐδέξατο 1 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 8 18 rje2 μετ’ αὐτοῦ 1 with him “with Titus”
2CO 8 18 jll9 figs-activepassive τὸν ἀδελφὸν, οὗ ὁ ἔπαινος ἐν τῷ εὐαγγελίῳ 1 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 8 19 j9rk οὐ μόνον 1 Not only this “Not only do believers among all of the churches praise him”
2CO 8 19 c667 figs-activepassive καὶ χειροτονηθεὶς ὑπὸ τῶν ἐκκλησιῶν 1 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 8 19 k7dy σὺν τῇ χάριτι ταύτῃ τῇ διακονουμένῃ ὑφ’ ἡμῶν 1 along with this act of grace which is being administered by us “to carry out this act of generosity.” This refers to taking the offering to Jerusalem.
2CO 8 20 a3ps figs-abstractnouns ἐν τῇ ἁδρότητι ταύτῃ τῇ διακονουμένῃ ὑφ’ ἡμῶν 1 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 8 21 n4x1 προνοοῦμεν γὰρ καλὰ 1 For we considered beforehand what is right “We are careful to handle this gift in an honorable way”
2CO 8 23 u8lx figs-activepassive ἀπόστολοι ἐκκλησιῶν 1 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 8 23 a8v2 figs-abstractnouns δόξα Χριστοῦ 1 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 9 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]])
2CO 9 1 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 9 1 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 9 1 fxs3 figs-explicit τῆς διακονίας τῆς εἰς τοὺς ἁγίους 1 the ministry that is for the saints 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 9 2 i529 figs-metonymy Ἀχαΐα παρεσκεύασται 1 Achaia has been 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 9 3 k1er μὴ τὸ καύχημα ἡμῶν, τὸ ὑπὲρ ὑμῶν, κενωθῇ 1 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 9 4 j8ey εὕρωσιν ὑμᾶς ἀπαρασκευάστους 1 find you unprepared “find you unprepared to give”
2CO 9 5 q1up figs-go τοὺς ἀδελφοὺς, ἵνα προέλθωσιν εἰς ὑμᾶς 1 the brothers they they would 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 9 5 nm2n figs-activepassive μὴ ὡς πλεονεξίαν 0 not as forced 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 9 6 mm9w figs-metaphor ὁ σπείρων…ἐπ’ εὐλογίαις καὶ θερίσει 1 the one who sows…will also reap in blessings 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 9 7 tzt4 figs-metonymy ἕκαστος καθὼς προῄρηται τῇ καρδίᾳ 1 let each one give as he has decided 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 9 7 whg6 figs-abstractnouns μὴ ἐκ λύπης ἢ ἐξ ἀνάγκης 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 9 8 cz9b figs-metaphor δυνατεῖ δὲ ὁ Θεὸς, πᾶσαν χάριν περισσεῦσαι εἰς ὑμᾶς 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 9 8 u8w6 περισσεύητε εἰς πᾶν ἔργον ἀγαθόν 1 you may abound in every good work “so that you may be able to do more and more good deeds”
2CO 9 9 mma1 figs-activepassive καθὼς γέγραπται 1 just 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 9 10 b1xe figs-metonymy ἄρτον εἰς βρῶσιν 1 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 9 10 uts1 figs-metaphor χορηγήσει καὶ πληθυνεῖ τὸν σπόρον ὑμῶν 1 will 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 9 10 ci67 figs-metaphor αὐξήσει τὰ γενήματα τῆς δικαιοσύνης ὑμῶν 1 will increase the fruits 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 9 10 yv67 τὰ γενήματα τῆς δικαιοσύνης ὑμῶν 1 the fruits 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 9 11 eey1 figs-activepassive πλουτιζόμενοι 1 enriching you This can be stated in active form. Alternate translation: “God will enrich you” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 9 11 b3e5 figs-explicit ἥτις κατεργάζεται δι’ ἡμῶν, εὐχαριστίαν τῷ Θεῷ 1 which produces 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 9 12 l7kq figs-explicit ὅτι ἡ διακονία τῆς λειτουργίας ταύτης 1 For the ministry of 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 9 12 esk7 figs-metaphor ἀλλὰ καὶ περισσεύουσα διὰ πολλῶν εὐχαριστιῶν τῷ Θεῷ 1 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 9 13 plj4 figs-activepassive διὰ τῆς δοκιμῆς τῆς διακονίας ταύτης 1 Because of the proof of this ministry 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 9 13 ze14 δοξάζοντες τὸν Θεὸν ἐπὶ τῇ ὑποταγῇ τῆς ὁμολογίας ὑμῶν εἰς τὸ εὐαγγέλιον τοῦ Χριστοῦ, καὶ ἁπλότητι τῆς κοινωνίας εἰς αὐτοὺς καὶ εἰς πάντας 1 they glorify God for your obedience…the generosity of your sharing with them and with 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 9 15 es8c ἐπὶ τῇ ἀνεκδιηγήτῳ αὐτοῦ δωρεᾷ 1 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 10 intro abcd 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]])
2CO 10 1 gq7j figs-abstractnouns διὰ τῆς πραΰτητος καὶ ἐπιεικείας τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 by the meekness 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 2 i6hh τοὺς λογιζομένους 1 those who regard “who think that”
2CO 10 2 ik1p figs-metonymy ὡς κατὰ σάρκα περιπατοῦντας 1 as walking 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 3 cvd6 figs-metonymy ἐν σαρκὶ…περιπατοῦντες 1 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 3 k7h8 figs-metaphor οὐ…στρατευόμεθα 1 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 3 gpd3 figs-metonymy κατὰ σάρκα στρατευόμεθα 1 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 4 uf5s figs-metaphor τὰ…ὅπλα τῆς στρατείας ἡμῶν…λογισμοὺς καθαιροῦντες 1 the weapons we fight with…for pulling down 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 4 d1gj figs-metonymy οὐ σαρκικὰ 1 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 5 xuz9 πᾶν ὕψωμα ἐπαιρόμενον 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 5 b74d πᾶν ὕψωμα 1 every high thing “everything that proud people do”
2CO 10 5 vm1a figs-metaphor ἐπαιρόμενον κατὰ τῆς γνώσεως τοῦ Θεοῦ 1 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 5 r2yz figs-metaphor αἰχμαλωτίζοντες πᾶν νόημα εἰς τὴν ὑπακοὴν τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 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 6 m4ds figs-metonymy ἐκδικῆσαι πᾶσαν παρακοήν 1 to avenge 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 7 y2yb figs-rquestion τὰ κατὰ πρόσωπον βλέπετε 1 You are looking at the appearance of things 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 7 f3i9 καθὼς αὐτὸς Χριστοῦ, οὕτως καὶ ἡμεῖς 1 that just as he is Christ’s, so also are we “that we belong to Christ just as much as he does”
2CO 10 8 d4zu figs-metaphor εἰς οἰκοδομὴν καὶ οὐκ εἰς καθαίρεσιν ὑμῶν 1 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 9 nw6e ἂν ἐκφοβεῖν ὑμᾶς 1 I would terrify you “I am trying to frighten you”
2CO 10 10 mt6h βαρεῖαι καὶ ἰσχυραί 1 weighty and forceful “demanding and forceful”
2CO 10 11 m6m6 τοῦτο λογιζέσθω ὁ τοιοῦτος 1 Let such a one consider this “I want such people to be aware”
2CO 10 11 g58z οἷοί ἐσμεν τῷ λόγῳ δι’ ἐπιστολῶν ἀπόντες, τοιοῦτοι καὶ παρόντες τῷ ἔργῳ 1 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 ἐσμεν 1 we are 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 ἐνκρῖναι ἢ συνκρῖναι ἑαυτούς 1 to group or compare ourselves “to say we are as good as”
2CO 10 12 i85y figs-parallelism αὐτοὶ ἐν ἑαυτοῖς, ἑαυτοὺς μετροῦντες καὶ συνκρίνοντες ἑαυτοὺς ἑαυτοῖς 1 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 αὐτοὶ ἐν ἑαυτοῖς, ἑαυτοὺς μετροῦντες 1 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 οὐ συνιᾶσιν 1 have no understanding “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 οὐκ εἰς τὰ ἄμετρα καυχησόμεθα 1 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 κατὰ τὸ μέτρον τοῦ κανόνος, οὗ ἐμέρισεν ἡμῖν ὁ Θεὸς 1 according to the measure of the area that God has assigned to us “about things under the authority that God”
2CO 10 13 fx2b figs-metaphor μέτρου, ἐφικέσθαι ἄχρι καὶ ὑμῶν 1 a measure that reached even 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 15 hu9l figs-idiom οὐκ εἰς τὰ ἄμετρα καυχώμενοι 1 Neither do we boast beyond limits about 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 ἀλλοτρίῳ κανόνι 1 another person’s area “an area God has assigned to someone else”
2CO 10 17 q8cc ἐν Κυρίῳ καυχάσθω 1 boast in the Lord “boast about what the Lord has done”
2CO 10 18 h81t ὁ ἑαυτὸν συνιστάνων 1 who commends 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 ἐστιν δόκιμος 1 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 ὃν ὁ Κύριος συνίστησιν 1 the one whom the Lord commends 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 11 intro abce 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))
2CO 11 2 m6vl ζηλῶ…ζήλῳ 1 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 2 ee9i figs-metaphor ἡρμοσάμην γὰρ ὑμᾶς ἑνὶ ἀνδρὶ, παρθένον ἁγνὴν παραστῆσαι τῷ Χριστῷ 1 for I promised you in marriage to one husband, 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 3 l2hr φοβοῦμαι δὲ, μή πως…τῆς ἁγνότητος τῆς εἰς τὸν Χριστόν 1 But I am afraid that somehow…the sincerity and the purity that are in 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 3 m5zn figs-metaphor φθαρῇ τὰ νοήματα ὑμῶν 1 your thoughts might be led astray 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 4 wq57 εἰ μὲν γὰρ ὁ ἐρχόμενος 1 For if one who comes “When anyone comes and”
2CO 11 4 l7m8 ἢ πνεῦμα ἕτερον λαμβάνετε ὃ οὐκ ἐλάβετε, ἢ εὐαγγέλιον ἕτερον ὃ οὐκ ἐδέξασθε 1 or you receive a different spirit which you did not receive, or you receive a different gospel which you did not accept “a different spirit than the Holy Spirit, or a different gospel than you received from us”
2CO 11 4 fs5z καλῶς ἀνέχεσθε 1 you are bearing with it well “deal with these things.” See how these words were translated in [2 Corinthians 11:1](../11/01.md).
2CO 11 5 eet1 figs-irony τῶν ὑπέρ λίαν ἀποστόλων 1 those 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 6 f8d1 figs-litotes οὐ τῇ γνώσει 1 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 7 un9v figs-rquestion ἢ ἁμαρτίαν ἐποίησα ἐμαυτὸν ταπεινῶν, ἵνα ὑμεῖς ὑψωθῆτε 1 Or 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 7 ax51 δωρεὰν τὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ εὐαγγέλιον εὐηγγελισάμην ὑμῖν 1 freely preached the gospel of God to you “preached the gospel of God to you without expecting anything from you in return”
2CO 11 8 k6ds figs-irony ἄλλας ἐκκλησίας ἐσύλησα 1 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 8 a416 figs-explicit τὴν ὑμῶν διακονίαν 1 the ministry to 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 9 fc6l figs-explicit ἐν παντὶ ἀβαρῆ ἐμαυτὸν ὑμῖν ἐτήρησα 1 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 9 a23k οἱ ἀδελφοὶ ἐλθόντες 1 the brothers who came These “brothers” were probably all male.
2CO 11 9 b35r τηρήσω 1 I will continue to do that “I never will be a burden to you”
2CO 11 10 si2r ἔστιν ἀλήθεια Χριστοῦ ἐν ἐμοὶ 1 the truth of Christ is in me 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 ἡ καύχησις αὕτη οὐ φραγήσεται εἰς ἐμὲ 1 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 ry9c τοῖς κλίμασι τῆς Ἀχαΐας 1 the regions of Achaia “regions of Achaia.” The word “parts” speaks of areas of land, not political divisions.
2CO 11 11 zqu5 figs-rquestion διὰ τί? ὅτι οὐκ ἀγαπῶ ὑμᾶς? 1 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 ὁ Θεὸς οἶδεν 1 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 ἵνα ἐκκόψω τὴν ἀφορμὴν 1 in order that I may take away the opportunity 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 εὑρεθῶσιν καθὼς καὶ ἡμεῖς 1 they may be regarded as equal to us 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 οἱ γὰρ τοιοῦτοι 1 For such people “I do what I do because people like them”
2CO 11 13 y896 μετασχηματιζόμενοι εἰς ἀποστόλους 1 disguising themselves as apostles “are not apostles, but they try to make themselves look like apostles”
2CO 11 14 v9z4 figs-litotes οὐ θαῦμα 1 no wonder 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 ὁ Σατανᾶς μετασχηματίζεται εἰς ἄγγελον φωτός 1 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 ἄγγελον φωτός 1 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 οὐ μέγα 1 it is no great thing 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 καὶ οἱ διάκονοι αὐτοῦ μετασχηματίζονται ὡς διάκονοι δικαιοσύνης 1 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 ὡς ἄφρονα δέξασθέ με, ἵνα κἀγὼ μικρόν τι καυχήσωμαι 1 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 κατὰ σάρκα 1 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 ἀνέχεσθε τῶν ἀφρόνων 1 put up with the foolish “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 φρόνιμοι ὄντες 1 being wise 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 ὑμᾶς καταδουλοῖ 1 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 κατεσθίει 1 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 λαμβάνει 1 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 κατὰ ἀτιμίαν λέγω ὡς ὅτι ἡμεῖς ἠσθενήκαμεν! 1 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 δ’ ἄν τις τολμᾷ (ἐν ἀφροσύνῃ λέγω), τολμῶ κἀγώ 1 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 Ἑβραῖοί εἰσιν?…Ἰσραηλεῖταί εἰσιν?…σπέρμα Ἀβραάμ εἰσιν? 1 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 διάκονοι Χριστοῦ εἰσιν? (παραφρονῶν λαλῶ), ὑπὲρ ἐγώ 1 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 παραφρονῶν λαλῶ 1 as though I were out of my mind “as though I were unable to think well”
2CO 11 23 vy54 figs-ellipsis ὑπὲρ ἐγώ 1 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 ἐν κόποις περισσοτέρως 1 in even more hard work “I have worked harder”
2CO 11 23 cs3f figs-idiom ἐν πληγαῖς ὑπερβαλλόντως 1 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 ἐν θανάτοις πολλάκις 1 in facing many dangers of death “and I have almost died many times”
2CO 11 24 ttz2 τεσσεράκοντα παρὰ μίαν 1 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 ἐραβδίσθην 1 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 ἐλιθάσθην 1 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 νυχθήμερον ἐν τῷ βυθῷ πεποίηκα 1 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 κινδύνοις ἐν ψευδαδέλφοις 1 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 γυμνότητι 1 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 ἡ ἐπίστασίς μοι ἡ καθ’ ἡμέραν, ἡ μέριμνα πασῶν τῶν ἐκκλησιῶν 1 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 τίς ἀσθενεῖ, καὶ οὐκ ἀσθενῶ? 1 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 τίς ἀσθενεῖ, καὶ οὐκ ἀσθενῶ? 1 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 τίς σκανδαλίζεται, καὶ οὐκ ἐγὼ πυροῦμαι? 1 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 σκανδαλίζεται 1 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 οὐκ ἐγὼ πυροῦμαι 1 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 τὰ τῆς ἀσθενείας 1 what shows my weaknesses “what shows how weak I am”
2CO 11 31 yx8z figs-litotes οὐ ψεύδομαι 1 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 ὁ ἐθνάρχης Ἁρέτα τοῦ βασιλέως ἐφρούρει τὴν πόλιν 1 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 πιάσαι με 1 to arrest me “so that they might catch and arrest me”
2CO 11 33 i8xa figs-activepassive ἐν σαργάνῃ, ἐχαλάσθην 1 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 τὰς χεῖρας αὐτοῦ 1 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 12 intro abcf 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))
2CO 12 1 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 1 rb42 figs-hendiadys ὀπτασίας καὶ ἀποκαλύψεις Κυρίου 1 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 2 cz7u οἶδα ἄνθρωπον ἐν Χριστῷ 1 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 2 fth2 εἴτε ἐν σώματι οὐκ οἶδα, εἴτε ἐκτὸς τοῦ σώματος οὐκ οἶδα 1 whether in the body, I do not know, 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 2 k4aw τρίτου οὐρανοῦ 1 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 4 qv5h ἡρπάγη εἰς τὸν Παράδεισον 1 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 5 hpq6 τοῦ τοιούτου 1 of such a person “of that person”
2CO 12 5 i12f οὐ καυχήσομαι, εἰ μὴ ἐν ταῖς ἀσθενείαις 1 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 6 p8fm μή τις εἰς ἐμὲ λογίσηται ὑπὲρ ὃ βλέπει με, ἢ ἀκούει ἐξ ἐμοῦ 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 7 xxi2 καὶ τῇ ὑπερβολῇ τῶν ἀποκαλύψεων 1 because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations “because those revelations were so much greater than anything anyone else had ever seen”
2CO 12 7 hu8g figs-activepassive ἐδόθη μοι σκόλοψ τῇ σαρκί 1 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 7 q5e7 figs-metaphor σκόλοψ τῇ σαρκί 1 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 7 q7lz ἄγγελος Σατανᾶ 1 a messenger from Satan “a servant of Satan”
2CO 12 8 n76p τρὶς 1 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 9 g8mi figs-metaphor ἐπισκηνώσῃ ἐπ’ ἐμὲ ἡ δύναμις τοῦ Χριστοῦ 1 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 εὐδοκῶ ἐν ἀσθενείαις, ἐν ὕβρεσιν, ἐν ἀνάγκαις, ἐν διωγμοῖς, καὶ στενοχωρίαις, ὑπὲρ Χριστοῦ 1 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 t7qg ὅταν γὰρ ἀσθενῶ, τότε δυνατός εἰμι 1 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 v2lr figs-activepassive ἐγὼ…ὤφειλον ὑφ’ ὑμῶν συνίστασθαι 1 I should have been commended 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 h4d5 figs-litotes γὰρ ὑστέρησα 1 For I was not at all inferior 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 τῶν ὑπέρ λίαν ἀποστόλων 1 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 τὰ μὲν σημεῖα τοῦ ἀποστόλου κατειργάσθη 1 indeed the 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 d4um σημείοις τε, καὶ τέρασιν, καὶ δυνάμεσιν 1 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 τί γάρ ἐστιν ὃ ἡσσώθητε ὑπὲρ τὰς λοιπὰς ἐκκλησίας, εἰ μὴ ὅτι αὐτὸς ἐγὼ οὐ κατενάρκησα ὑμῶν? 1 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 sy7v figs-irony χαρίσασθέ μοι τὴν ἀδικίαν ταύτην! 1 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 14 ugk1 figs-explicit ἀλλὰ ὑμᾶς 1 but 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 οὐ…ὀφείλει τὰ τέκνα τοῖς γονεῦσιν θησαυρίζειν 1 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 ἐγὼ…ἥδιστα δαπανήσω καὶ ἐκδαπανηθήσομαι 1 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 ὑπὲρ τῶν ψυχῶν ὑμῶν 1 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 εἰ περισσοτέρως ὑμᾶς ἀγαπῶν, ἧσσον ἀγαπῶμαι? 1 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 περισσοτέρως 1 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 ἀλλὰ ὑπάρχων πανοῦργος δόλῳ, ὑμᾶς ἔλαβον 1 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 μή τινα ὧν ἀπέσταλκα πρὸς ὑμᾶς, δι’ αὐτοῦ ἐπλεονέκτησα ὑμᾶς? 1 I did not take advantage of you by any of those whom I sent to you, did I? 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 μήτι ἐπλεονέκτησεν ὑμᾶς Τίτος? 1 Titus did not take advantage of you, did he? 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 οὐ τῷ αὐτῷ πνεύματι περιεπατήσαμεν 1 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 οὐ τοῖς αὐτοῖς ἴχνεσιν? 1 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 πάλαι δοκεῖτε ὅτι ὑμῖν ἀπολογούμεθα? 1 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 κατέναντι Θεοῦ 1 Before 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 ὑπὲρ τῆς ὑμῶν οἰκοδομῆς 1 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 οὐχ οἵους θέλω, εὕρω ὑμᾶς 1 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 κἀγὼ εὑρεθῶ ὑμῖν οἷον οὐ θέλετε 1 I may not be found by you as you wish “you might not like what you see in me”
2CO 12 20 rh1h figs-abstractnouns μή πως ἔρις, ζῆλος, θυμοί, ἐριθεῖαι, καταλαλιαί, ψιθυρισμοί, φυσιώσεις, ἀκαταστασίαι 1 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 πενθήσω πολλοὺς τῶν προημαρτηκότων, 1 I might be grieved by many of those who have sinned “I will be grieved because many of them have not given up their old sins”
2CO 12 21 hq1e figs-parallelism μὴ μετανοησάντων ἐπὶ τῇ ἀκαθαρσίᾳ, καὶ πορνείᾳ, καὶ ἀσελγείᾳ 1 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 ἐπὶ τῇ ἀκαθαρσίᾳ 1 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 yyr5 figs-abstractnouns ἐπὶ τῇ…ἀσελγείᾳ 1 of the…lustful indulgence The abstract noun “indulgence” can be translated using a verbal phrase. Alternate translation: “of…doing things that satisfy immoral sexual desire” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-abstractnouns]])
2CO 13 intro abcg 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]])
2CO 13 1 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 1 slj1 figs-activepassive ἐπὶ στόματος δύο μαρτύρων καὶ τριῶν σταθήσεται πᾶν ῥῆμα 1 Every matter 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 2 fxl6 τοῖς λοιποῖς πᾶσιν 1 all the rest “all you other people”
2CO 13 4 a1bf figs-activepassive ἐσταυρώθη 1 he was crucified This can be made active. Alternate translation: “they crucified him” (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-activepassive]])
2CO 13 4 zeh1 ἀλλὰ ζήσομεν σὺν αὐτῷ ἐκ δυνάμεως Θεοῦ 1 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 5 sbx4 ἐν ὑμῖν 1 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 7 u75e figs-litotes μὴ ποιῆσαι ὑμᾶς κακὸν μηδέν 1 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 7 gt2e δόκιμοι 1 to have passed the test “to be great teachers and live the truth”
2CO 13 8 a3l7 οὐ…δυνάμεθά τι κατὰ τῆς ἀληθείας 1 we are not able to do anything against the truth “we are not able to keep people from learning the truth”
2CO 13 8 bt3c τῆς ἀληθείας, ἀλλὰ ὑπὲρ τῆς ἀληθείας 2 the truth, but only for the truth “truth; everything we do will enable people to learn the truth”
2CO 13 9 vt7b τὴν ὑμῶν κατάρτισιν 1 for your perfection “may become spiritually mature”
2CO 13 10 rlm8 figs-metaphor εἰς οἰκοδομὴν καὶ οὐκ εἰς καθαίρεσιν. 1 for building up, and not for tearing 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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