2 Corinthians 5:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Corinthians 5:7
7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight:)
Chapter Context
2 Corinthians 5 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of righteousness, love, wisdom. 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 provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 5:7
7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight:)
Analysis
For we walk by faith, not by sight—Paul provides theological grounding for verse 6's tension. Dia pisteōs peripatoumen (διὰ πίστεως περιπατοῦμεν, "through faith we walk") versus dia eidous (διὰ εἴδους, "through sight/appearance"). Eidos (εἶδος) means visible form, outward appearance—what can be empirically verified. Pistis (πίστις, "faith") is confident trust in God's unseen promises, particularly resurrection hope.
This parenthetical statement explains why absence from the Lord doesn't diminish confidence. Faith bridges the gap between present reality and promised glory. The verb peripateō (περιπατέω, "walk") indicates ongoing lifestyle, not isolated acts—our entire life orientation is faith-governed, not appearance-governed. This counters both demand for empirical proof and despair over present suffering. Faith perceives eternal realities invisible to natural sight (Hebrews 11:1), making it superior, not inferior, to physical vision.
Historical Context
First-century culture highly valued visible honor, status, and power. Paul's opponents in Corinth boasted in appearance (v. 12)—eloquence, impressive presence, worldly credentials. Paul stakes apostolic authority on invisible realities: resurrection hope, internal transformation, God's coming vindication. This was profoundly counter-cultural and required constant reinforcement.
Reflection
- What specific "visible" realities tempt you to doubt invisible spiritual promises—how do you combat this with faith?
- How is walking by faith different from blind optimism or wishful thinking—what makes Christian faith reasonable?
- In what areas of life are you tempted to demand visible proof rather than trust God's word—finances, relationships, ministry?
Word Studies
- Faith: πίστις (Pistis) G4102 - Faith, belief, trust
Cross-References
- Faith: 2 Corinthians 1:24, Galatians 2:20, Hebrews 10:38, 1 Peter 1:8, 5:9
- Parallel theme: 2 Corinthians 4:18, Deuteronomy 12:9, 1 Corinthians 13:12