2 Corinthians 5:11
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Corinthians 5:11
11 Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.
Chapter Context
2 Corinthians 5 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of righteousness, holiness, redemption. 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.
Verse Study
2 Corinthians 5:11
11 Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.
Analysis
Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men—Eidotes oun ton phobon tou Kyriou (εἰδότες οὖν τὸν φόβον τοῦ Κυρίου, "knowing therefore the fear of the Lord"). Phobos (φόβος) ranges from reverential awe to terrified dread—here, the sobering reality of standing before Christ's bēma. This fear isn't slavish terror but appropriate seriousness about eternal accountability. It motivates evangelism: anthrōpous peithomen (ἀνθρώπους πείθομεν, "we persuade men")—Paul's apostolic ministry is driven by judgment's reality.
But we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences—Theō de pephanerōmetha (θεῷ δὲ πεφανερώμεθα, perfect tense, "to God we have been and remain manifest"). God sees Paul's motives completely. Paul appeals to the Corinthians' syneidēseis (συνειδήσεσι, "consciences")—their own moral awareness testifies to his integrity despite opponents' slander. This transparency before God and man vindicates authentic ministry versus self-promotion.
Historical Context
Paul's opponents in Corinth accused him of manipulative motives (2:17, 4:2). Paul consistently appeals to transparent ministry—no hidden agendas, no financial exploitation, no rhetorical tricks. His defense rests on God's knowledge and the Corinthians' own experience of his character. This models ministerial integrity for all generations.
Reflection
- Does awareness of standing before Christ's judgment seat motivate your evangelism and ministry—why or why not?
- How transparent are your motives before God—are there hidden agendas you rationalize but couldn't defend before Him?
- Can you honestly appeal to others' consciences as evidence of your integrity, or would that expose inconsistencies?
Word Studies
- God: Θεός (Theos) G2316 - God
Cross-References
- References God: 2 Corinthians 5:20, 6:1, Job 31:23, Acts 18:13, Hebrews 10:31
- Parallel theme: Psalms 76:7, 90:11, Nahum 1:6, Jude 1:23, Revelation 20:15