2 Corinthians 1:11
Ye also helping together by prayer for us, that for the gift bestowed upon us by the means of many persons thanks may be given by many on our behalf.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
2 of 20
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
ὑπὲρ
for
G5228
ὑπὲρ
for
Strong's:
G5228
Word #:
4 of 20
"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
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 20
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐκ
by
G1537
ἐκ
by
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
9 of 20
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
πολλῶν
many
G4183
πολλῶν
many
Strong's:
G4183
Word #:
10 of 20
(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely
προσώπων
persons
G4383
προσώπων
persons
Strong's:
G4383
Word #:
11 of 20
the front (as being towards view), i.e., the countenance, aspect, appearance, surface; by implication, presence, person
τὸ
G3588
τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
12 of 20
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
εἰς
bestowed upon
G1519
εἰς
bestowed upon
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
13 of 20
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
χάρισμα
for the gift
G5486
χάρισμα
for the gift
Strong's:
G5486
Word #:
15 of 20
a (divine) gratuity, i.e., deliverance (from danger or passion); (specially), a (spiritual) endowment, i.e., (subjectively) religious qualification, o
διὰ
by
G1223
διὰ
by
Strong's:
G1223
Word #:
16 of 20
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
πολλῶν
many
G4183
πολλῶν
many
Strong's:
G4183
Word #:
17 of 20
(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely
εὐχαριστηθῇ
thanks may be
G2168
εὐχαριστηθῇ
thanks may be
Strong's:
G2168
Word #:
18 of 20
to be grateful, i.e., (actively) to express gratitude (towards); specially, to say grace at a meal
Cross References
Philippians 1:19For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,2 Corinthians 4:15For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.Acts 12:5Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.Hebrews 13:18Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly.Colossians 4:3Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:2 Thessalonians 3:1Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you:Philemon 1:22But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you.
Historical Context
Written around AD 55-56 from Macedonia after Paul's 'painful visit' to Corinth (2:1). The Corinthian church faced challenges to Paul's apostolic authority from 'super-apostles' (11:5) who valued eloquence over cruciform ministry. Paul writes to defend his ministry, explain his changed travel plans, and restore relationship with this fractious congregation.
Questions for Reflection
- Do I view prayer as 'working together' with God and others, or solitary spiritual activity?
- How would my prayer life change if I expected prayers to produce gifts requiring public thanksgiving?
- Who am I praying for whose deliverance would result in 'many' giving thanks?
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Analysis & Commentary
Ye also helping together by prayer for us (συνυπουργούντων ὑμῶν)—synhypourgountōn (συνυπουργούντων, "working together alongside") portrays prayer as collaborative labor, not passive. Deēsis (δεήσει, "petition/supplication") is specific request.
That for the gift bestowed upon us by the means of many persons thanks may be given by many—charisma (χάρισμα, "gift of grace") connects to charis (v. 2); eucharistēthē (εὐχαριστηθῇ, "thanks be given") shares the root. Many pray, many give thanks—corporate intercession yields corporate gratitude.