2 Corinthians 4:5

Authorized King James Version

For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
οὐ
G3756
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#2
γὰρ
G1063
For
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
#3
ἑαυτοὺς
G1438
ourselves
(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc
#4
κηρύσσομεν
G2784
we preach
to herald (as a public crier), especially divine truth (the gospel)
#5
ἀλλὰ
G235
but
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#6
Χριστὸν
G5547
Christ
anointed, i.e., the messiah, an epithet of jesus
#7
Ἰησοῦν
G2424
Jesus
jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites
#8
κύριον
G2962
the Lord
supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
#9
ἑαυτοὺς
G1438
ourselves
(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc
#10
δὲ
G1161
and
but, and, etc
#11
δούλους
G1401
servants
a slave (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary; frequently, therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency)
#12
ὑμῶν
G5216
your
of (from or concerning) you
#13
διὰ
G1223
for
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
#14
Ἰησοῦν
G2424
Jesus
jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, 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

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 2 Corinthians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection