2 Corinthians 2:17
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Corinthians 2:17
17 For 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.
Chapter Context
2 Corinthians 2 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of sacrifice, redemption, 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 13-17: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. 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 2:17
17 For 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.
Analysis
For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God—The verb kapēleuontes (καπηλεύοντες, "to peddle, retail, adulterate") literally means to dilute wine for profit or hawk goods in the marketplace. Paul accuses false teachers of treating God's word as merchandise to be marketed, diluted for popular consumption, or manipulated for personal gain. The phrase hoi polloi (οἱ πολλοί, "the many") suggests widespread corruption—Paul's integrity was exceptional, not normal.
But as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ—Three prepositional phrases define authentic ministry: ex eilikrinias (ἐξ εἰλικρινείας, "from sincerity/purity"), all' hōs ek theou (ἀλλ' ὡς ἐκ θεοῦ, "but as from God"), and katenanti theou (κατέναντι θεοῦ, "before God"). Ministers speak with pure motives, divine commission, and God as their primary audience. The phrase en Christō (ἐν Χριστῷ, "in Christ") locates ministry within union with Christ—not human enterprise but participation in Christ's ongoing work. This concludes the chapter by answering verse 16's question: sufficiency comes from Christ-centered, God-commissioned, sincere ministry, not human cleverness or marketplace tactics.
Historical Context
First-century marketplace vendors commonly diluted wine and oil to increase profits. Itinerant teachers and philosophers often charged fees and adapted messages to please audiences. Paul supported himself by tentmaking (Acts 18:3) and refused payment from Corinth (1 Cor 9:12-18) to avoid any appearance of merchandising the Gospel. His financial integrity authenticated his message.
Reflection
- How do modern ministers sometimes "peddle" God's word like merchandise?
- What practical differences result from viewing God rather than people as your audience?
- How does union with Christ ("in Christ") transform ministry from human effort to divine work?
Word Studies
- God: Θεός (Theos) G2316 - God
Cross-References
- References Christ: Matthew 24:24, Jude 1:4
- References God: 1 John 4:1
- Word: 2 Corinthians 4:2
- Sin: 2 Corinthians 1:12, 1 Corinthians 5:8
- Parallel theme: Jeremiah 5:31, Acts 20:20, Titus 1:11, Revelation 2:20