2 Corinthians 5
1 For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternalEternal: αἰώνιος (Aiōnios). The Greek aiōnios (αἰώνιος) denotes eternal or everlasting—unending duration. Believers possess 'eternal life' (John 3:16) now and will dwell with God eternally, while the impenitent face 'eternal punishment' (Matthew 25:46). in the heavens.
2 For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven:
3 If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked.
4 For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life.
5 Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the SpiritSpirit: πνεῦμα (Pneuma). The Greek pneuma (πνεῦμα) means spirit, wind, or breath—the immaterial aspect of persons. The Holy Spirit (Pneuma Hagion) is the third person of the Trinity, dwelling in believers..
6 Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord:
7 (For we walk by faithFaith: πίστις (Pistis). The Greek pistis (πίστις) denotes faith, belief, or trust—confidence in God's character and promises. It's both intellectual assent and relational trust, central to justification (Romans 5:1)., not by sight:)
8 We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. Philippians 1:23 — Desire to depart and be with Christ Revelation 14:13 — Blessed are dead which die in Lord
9 Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him.
10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.
11 Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto GodGod: Θεός (Theos). The Greek Theos (Θεός) refers to deity, used both for the one true God and false gods. Context determines whether it denotes the Father specifically or the Godhead generally.; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.
12 For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart.
13 For whether we be beside ourselves, it is to GodGod: Θεός (Theos). The Greek Theos (Θεός) refers to deity, used both for the one true God and false gods. Context determines whether it denotes the Father specifically or the Godhead generally.: or whether we be sober, it is for your cause.
14 For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:
15 And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.
16 Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more.
17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. Galatians 6:15 — New creature Ephesians 4:24 — Put on new man
18 And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;
19 To wit, that GodWord: λόγος (Logos). The Greek Logos (Λόγος) means word, reason, or message—the rational principle underlying reality. John identifies Christ as the eternal Logos: 'In the beginning was the Word' (John 1:1).-1" class="margin-toggle sidenote-number">God: Θεός (Theos). The Greek Theos (Θεός) refers to deity, used both for the one true God and false gods. Context determines whether it denotes the Father specifically or the Godhead generally. was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.
20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.
21 For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of GodGod: Θεός (Theos). The Greek Theos (Θεός) refers to deity, used both for the one true God and false gods. Context determines whether it denotes the Father specifically or the Godhead generally. in him. Isaiah 53:6 — LORD hath laid on him iniquity 1 Peter 2:24 — Bare our sins
2 Corinthians 5 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of judgment, redemption, sacrifice. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 55-56 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Paul defended his apostleship against challenges in a culture valuing rhetorical prowess.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-21: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 2 Corinthians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.