2 Corinthians 6:8
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Corinthians 6:8
8 By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true;
Chapter Context
2 Corinthians 6 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of grace, obedience, 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 13-18: Central message and teachings
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 6:8
8 By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and yet true;
Analysis
By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report (διὰ δόξης καὶ ἀτιμίας, διὰ δυσφημίας καὶ εὐφημίας, dia doxēs kai atimias, dia dysphēmias kai euphēmias)—Paul shifts to a series of antithetical pairs (vv.8-10) that express the paradoxes of apostolic ministry. Doxa (honor/glory) and atimia (dishonor/disgrace) represent opposite social assessments. Dysphēmia (evil report/slander) and euphēmia (good report/praise) refer to reputation—some speak well of Paul, others slander him. The preposition dia ('through' or 'by') indicates these opposites are the path through which Paul ministers.
As deceivers, and yet true (ὡς πλάνοι καὶ ἀληθεῖς, hōs planoi kai alētheis)—Planos means deceiver, imposter, or false teacher—the very accusation Paul's opponents leveled against him. Alēthēs (true, genuine, truthful) expresses Paul's actual character. The construction hōs...kai ('as...and yet') creates dramatic tension: Paul is perceived as a deceiver but actually is truthful.
These paradoxes reflect Christian existence in a fallen world that calls good evil and evil good (Isa 5:20). Paul's reputation fluctuates wildly depending on his audience, but he remains faithful regardless of human opinion. This previews the fuller paradox list in verses 9-10.
Historical Context
Paul faced contradictory assessments: Jewish opponents viewed him as an apostate traitor; Gentile critics saw him as a troublemaker or charlatan; false teachers in Corinth portrayed him as weak, unimpressive, and lacking credentials; while true converts recognized him as a genuine apostle of Christ. Paul learned to minister faithfully through both praise and blame.
Reflection
- How do you respond when you're misunderstood, slandered, or falsely accused—with defensiveness, bitterness, or Christ-like grace?
- In what ways might God be using both 'honour and dishonour,' 'evil report and good report' to test and refine your character?
- How does Paul's steadfastness amid contradictory opinions challenge modern Christians' addiction to approval and fear of criticism?
Cross-References
- Evil: 1 Peter 4:14
- Parallel theme: Matthew 27:63, Acts 28:22, 1 Timothy 4:10, Revelation 3:9