2 Corinthians 2:17

Authorized King James Version

For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
οὐ
G3756
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#2
γάρ
G1063
For
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#3
ἐσμεν
G2070
we are
we are
#4
ὡς
G5613
as
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#5
οἱ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#6
πολλοὶ
G4183
many
(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely
#7
καπηλεύοντες
G2585
which corrupt
to retail, i.e., (by implication) to adulterate (figuratively)
#8
τὸν
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
λόγον
G3056
the word
something said (including the thought); by implication, a topic (subject of discourse), also reasoning (the mental faculty) or motive; by extension, a
#10
τοῦ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#11
θεοῦ
G2316
God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
#12
ἀλλ'
G235
but
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#13
ὡς
G5613
as
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#14
ἐκ
G1537
of
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#15
εἰλικρινείας
G1505
sincerity
clearness, i.e., (by implication) purity (figuratively)
#16
ἀλλ'
G235
but
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#17
ὡς
G5613
as
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#18
ἐκ
G1537
of
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#19
θεοῦ
G2316
God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
#20
κατενώπιον
G2714
in the sight
directly in front of
#21
τοῦ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#22
θεοῦ
G2316
God
a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
#23
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#24
Χριστῷ
G5547
Christ
anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus
#25
λαλοῦμεν
G2980
speak we
to talk, i.e., utter words

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Corinthians. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. 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 sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection