2 Corinthians 5:4
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Corinthians 5:4
4 For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life.
Chapter Context
2 Corinthians 5 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, holiness, salvation. 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 establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. 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 5:4
4 For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life.
Analysis
For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened—Paul intensifies the groaning motif: stenazomen (στενάζομεν, present tense, "we continually groan") and barounmenoi (βαρούμενοι, "being weighed down/burdened"). The present participle emphasizes ongoing oppression under mortality's weight. Yet Paul clarifies: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon—the goal is not escape from embodiment but its transformation.
That mortality might be swallowed up of life employs the vivid metaphor of katapothē (καταποθῇ, "be swallowed/consumed completely"). This echoes Isaiah 25:8 ("He will swallow up death in victory") and Paul's use in 1 Corinthians 15:54. Life (zōē, ζωή, resurrection life) doesn't merely replace death but completely devours it—a total, irreversible victory. Mortality is not shed like a garment but overwhelmed by life's superior power.
Historical Context
Isaiah's prophecy of death's destruction was central to Jewish eschatological hope. Paul applies this to individual believers, not just corporate Israel. The metaphor of swallowing suggests complete absorption—death won't simply cease but will be utterly consumed by resurrection life. This connects to Christ's own resurrection, the firstfruits of this cosmic reversal.
Reflection
- How does Paul's burden under mortality differ from escapist worldviews that merely want release from physical existence?
- What does it mean for mortality to be "swallowed up" by life rather than simply ended—how is this victory more complete?
- In what ways do you experience the "groaning" of mortality even while living with resurrection hope?
Cross-References
- Temple: 2 Peter 1:13
- Parallel theme: 2 Corinthians 5:2, Isaiah 25:8