2 Corinthians 8:21
Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.
Original Language Analysis
προνοοῦμενοι
Providing
G4306
προνοοῦμενοι
Providing
Strong's:
G4306
Word #:
1 of 10
to consider in advance, i.e., look out for beforehand (actively, by way of maintenance for others; middle voice by way of circumspection for oneself)
καλὰ
for honest things
G2570
καλὰ
for honest things
Strong's:
G2570
Word #:
2 of 10
properly, beautiful, but chiefly (figuratively) good (literally or morally), i.e., valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use, and thus distinguished
κυρίου
of the Lord
G2962
κυρίου
of the Lord
Strong's:
G2962
Word #:
6 of 10
supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
ἀλλὰ
but
G235
ἀλλὰ
but
Strong's:
G235
Word #:
7 of 10
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
8 of 10
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Cross References
Romans 12:17Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.1 Peter 2:12Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.Philippians 4:8Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.2 Corinthians 2:17For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.1 Thessalonians 5:22Abstain from all appearance of evil.Romans 14:18For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men.Matthew 6:4That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.1 Timothy 5:14I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.Matthew 23:5But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments,Matthew 5:16Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Historical Context
Paul's concern for reputation reflects Jewish-Christian ethics rooted in wisdom literature (Proverbs 3:4, 'find favor... in the sight of God and man'). This dual accountability distinguished Christian communities from both pagan religious charlatans (who often fleeced followers) and insular Jewish sectarians (who cared only for internal purity). Paul wanted the church to be both holy and credible, attractive to outsiders through visible integrity.
Questions for Reflection
- How does caring about human perception differ from people-pleasing or hypocrisy?
- What 'honest things' should Christian organizations proactively demonstrate to skeptical observers?
- When is concern for public reputation healthy, and when does it become compromising?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men—Paul cites Proverbs 3:4 (LXX) and Romans 12:17, establishing dual accountability: pronoumen gar kala (προνοοῦμεν γὰρ καλά, 'we take thought for honorable things') ou monon enōpion kyriou (οὐ μόνον ἐνώπιον κυρίου, 'not only before the Lord') alla kai enōpion anthrōpōn (ἀλλὰ καὶ ἐνώπιον ἀνθρώπων, 'but also before men'). The verb pronoeō (προνοέω, 'to think beforehand, take care for, provide') indicates proactive planning. Kala (καλά, 'good/honorable/beautiful things') suggests both moral excellence and visible propriety.
This principle is vital for Christian ethics: private holiness isn't enough; public perception matters. Paul doesn't advocate mere appearance-management (hypocrisy) but genuine integrity made visible through accountability structures. The phrase enōpion anthrōpōn ('in the sight of men') acknowledges that Christian witness depends partly on credibility—if unbelievers suspect financial impropriety, gospel proclamation suffers. This dual accountability—God and humanity—requires both authentic integrity (satisfying divine scrutiny) and transparent procedures (satisfying human observation). Leaders must care what people think while ultimately answering to God.