2 Corinthians 12:10

Authorized King James Version

Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
διὸ
Therefore
through which thing, i.e., consequently
#2
εὐδοκῶ
I take pleasure
to think well of, i.e., approve (an act); specially, to approbate (a person or thing)
#3
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#4
ἀσθενείαις
infirmities
feebleness (of mind or body); by implication, malady; morally, frailty
#5
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#6
ὕβρεσιν
reproaches
insolence (as over-bearing), i.e., insult, injury
#7
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#8
ἀνάγκαις
necessities
constraint (literally or figuratively); by implication, distress
#9
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#10
διωγμοῖς
persecutions
persecution
#11
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#12
στενοχωρίαις
distresses
narrowness of room, i.e., (figuratively) calamity
#13
ὑπὲρ
for
"over", i.e., (with the genitive case) of place, above, beyond, across, or causal, for the sake of, instead, regarding; with the accusative case super
#14
Χριστοῦ·
Christ's
anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus
#15
ὅταν
when
whenever (implying hypothesis or more or less uncertainty); also causatively (conjunctionally) inasmuch as
#16
γὰρ
for
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#17
ἀσθενῶ
I am weak
to be feeble (in any sense)
#18
τότε
then
the when, i.e., at the time that (of the past or future, also in consecution)
#19
δυνατός
I strong
powerful or capable (literally or figuratively); neuter possible
#20
εἰμι
am
i exist (used only when emphatic)

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