2 Corinthians 10:2

Authorized King James Version

But I beseech you, that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
δέομαι
I beseech
to beg (as binding oneself), i.e., petition
#2
δὲ
But
but, and, etc
#3
τοὺς
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
μὴ
you that I may not
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#5
παρὼν
when I am present
to be near, i.e., at hand; neuter present participle (singular) time being, or (plural) property
#6
θαῤῥῆσαι
be bold
to exercise courage
#7
τοὺς
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#8
πεποιθήσει
with that confidence
reliance
#9
wherewith
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#10
λογιζομένους
I think
to take an inventory, i.e., estimate (literally or figuratively)
#11
τολμῆσαι
to be bold
to venture (objectively or in act; while g2292 is rather subjective or in feeling); by implication, to be courageous
#12
ἐπί
against
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
#13
τινας
some
some or any person or object
#14
τοὺς
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#15
λογιζομένους
I think
to take an inventory, i.e., estimate (literally or figuratively)
#16
ἡμᾶς
of us
us
#17
ὡς
as
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#18
κατὰ
according
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
#19
σάρκα
to the flesh
flesh (as stripped of the skin), i.e., (strictly) the meat of an animal (as food), or (by extension) the body (as opposed to the soul (or spirit), or
#20
περιπατοῦντας
if we walked
to tread all around, i.e., walk at large (especially as proof of ability); figuratively, to live, deport oneself, follow (as a companion or votary)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Corinthians. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection