2 Corinthians 5:12

Authorized King James Version

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.

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
πάλιν
G3825
again
(adverbially) anew, i.e., (of place) back, (of time) once more, or (conjunctionally) furthermore or on the other hand
#4
ἑαυτοὺς
G1438
ourselves
(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc
#5
συνιστάνομεν
G4921
we commend
to set together, i.e., (by implication) to introduce (favorably), or (figuratively) to exhibit; intransitively, to stand near, or (figuratively) to co
#6
ὑμῖν
G5213
unto you
to (with or by) you
#7
ἀλλὰ
G235
but
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#8
ἀφορμὴν
G874
occasion
a starting-point, i.e., (figuratively) an opportunity
#9
διδόντες
G1325
give
to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)
#10
ὑμῖν
G5213
unto you
to (with or by) you
#11
καυχήματος
G2745
to glory
a boast (properly, the object; by implication, the act) in a good or a bad sense
#12
ὑπὲρ
G5228
behalf
"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
#13
ἡμῶν
G2257
our
of (or from) us
#14
ἵνα
G2443
that
in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)
#15
ἔχητε
G2192
ye may have
to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
#16
πρὸς
G4314
somewhat to
a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,
#17
τοὺς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#18
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#19
προσώπῳ
G4383
appearance
the front (as being towards view), i.e., the countenance, aspect, appearance, surface; by implication, presence, person
#20
καυχωμένους
G2744
answer them which glory
to vaunt (in a good or a bad sense)
#21
καὶ
G2532
and
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#22
οὐ
G3756
not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#23
καρδίᾳ
G2588
in heart
the heart, i.e., (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind); also (by analogy) the middle

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of glory connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about glory, 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

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection