2 Corinthians 4:3
But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
G2532
καὶ
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
3 of 13
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
τοῖς
G3588
τοῖς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἀπολλυμένοις
them that are lost
G622
ἀπολλυμένοις
them that are lost
Strong's:
G622
Word #:
11 of 13
to destroy fully (reflexively, to perish, or lose), literally or figuratively
Cross References
1 Corinthians 1:18For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.2 Corinthians 3:14But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which vail is done away in Christ.Matthew 11:25At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.2 Corinthians 4:4In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.Romans 2:16In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel.1 Timothy 1:11According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust.2 Corinthians 2:12Furthermore, when I came to Troas to preach Christ's gospel, and a door was opened unto me of the Lord,1 Thessalonians 1:5For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.
Historical Context
In a results-oriented culture like Corinth's, ministry success was measured by numbers and acclaim. Paul's critics likely pointed to his rejection and suffering as evidence of failed ministry. Paul reframes the entire discussion: the gospel's apparent failure with some reveals their spiritual condition, not ministry inadequacy.
Questions for Reflection
- How do you respond when people reject the gospel you share—do you question the message, the messenger, or recognize spiritual blindness?
- In what ways does modern Christianity mistakenly measure ministry success by response rates rather than faithfulness?
- How does recognizing satanic blindness (v. 4) change your approach to evangelism and prayer?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost (apollymenois, ἀπολλυμένοις, 'those who are perishing')—Paul addresses accusations that his ministry lacked effectiveness. If some don't receive the gospel, the fault lies not in the message or messenger but in the spiritual condition of hearers. The veiling is not in Paul's proclamation but in their hearts.
This echoes 3:14-15 where a veil lies over Israelite hearts when Moses is read. Kekalmmenon (κεκαλυμμένον, 'veiled, hidden') implies active concealment. The gospel's hiddenness to unbelievers is not God's doing but the work of the 'god of this world' (v. 4). Paul refuses to accept responsibility for spiritual blindness rooted in satanic deception and human rebellion.