2 Corinthians 8:20

Authorized King James Version

Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered by us:

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
στελλόμενοι
Avoiding
properly, to set fast ("stall"), i.e., (figuratively) to repress (reflexively, abstain from associating with)
#2
τοῦτο
this
that thing
#3
μή
that no
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
#4
τις
man
some or any person or object
#5
ἡμᾶς
us
us
#6
μωμήσηται
should blame
to carp at, i.e., censure (discredit)
#7
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#8
τῇ
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
ἁδρότητι
abundance
plumpness, i.e., (figuratively) liberality
#10
ταύτῃ
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
#11
τῇ
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#12
διακονουμένῃ
is administered
to be an attendant, i.e., wait upon (menially or as a host, friend, or (figuratively) teacher); technically, to act as a christian deacon
#13
ὑφ'
by
under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (
#14
ἡμῶν·
us
of (or from) us

Analysis

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

Questions for Reflection