2 Corinthians 11:15

Authorized King James Version

Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
οὐ
G3756
it is no
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#2
μέγα
G3173
great thing
big (literally or figuratively, in a very wide application)
#3
οὖν
G3767
Therefore
(adverbially) certainly, or (conjunctionally) accordingly
#4
εἰ
G1487
if, whether, that, etc
#5
καὶ
G2532
also
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#6
οἱ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#7
διάκονοι
G1249
ministers
an attendant, i.e., (genitive case) a waiter (at table or in other menial duties); specially, a christian teacher and pastor (technically, a deacon)
#8
αὐτῶν
G846
his
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
#9
μετασχηματίζονται
G3345
be transformed
to transfigure or disguise; figuratively, to apply (by accommodation)
#10
ὡς
G5613
as
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#11
διάκονοι
G1249
ministers
an attendant, i.e., (genitive case) a waiter (at table or in other menial duties); specially, a christian teacher and pastor (technically, a deacon)
#12
δικαιοσύνης·
G1343
of righteousness
equity (of character or act); specially (christian) justification
#13
ὧν
G3739
whose
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#14
τὸ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#15
τέλος
G5056
end
properly, the point aimed at as a limit, i.e., (by implication) the conclusion of an act or state (termination (literally, figuratively or indefinitel
#16
ἔσται
G2071
shall be
will be
#17
κατὰ
G2596
according
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
#18
τὰ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#19
ἔργα
G2041
works
toil (as an effort or occupation); by implication, an act
#20
αὐτῶν
G846
his
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of righteousness connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about righteousness, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 2 Corinthians.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection