What does 2 Corinthians 4:11 mean?

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For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. 2 Corinthians 4:11

Explanation

2 Corinthians 4:11 is a verse where the Apostle Paul writes about the hardships and trials faced by himself and other apostles as a way of sharing in the sufferings of Jesus Christ. The passage is meant to convey that the apostles are continuously facing the risk of death, much like Jesus did, for the purpose of spreading the Gospel. The essence of the verse highlights that their mortal flesh, meaning their physical bodies, may endure suffering, but this showcases the resurrection power and life of Jesus within them.

Paul is emphasizing that through their experiences, the life of Jesus is demonstrated to others. The phrase “delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake” can be understood as living with the constant danger of facing death due to their mission. Nonetheless, this sacrifice serves to reveal the living power of Jesus, as it is through the hardships that the spirit and teachings of Jesus are brought to life in their human vulnerabilities.

Historical Context

2 Corinthians is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Corinth around A.D. 55-56. During this time, the early Christian church was facing persecution and significant challenges both from within the church and from the secular Greco-Roman society. False apostles and teachers were seeking to turn believers away from Paul’s teachings and discredit him. As a result, Paul writes to reaffirm his calling and to encourage the believers to stay true to the gospel amidst these trials. The broader context of this chapter is about Paul’s defense of his ministry and the authenticity of his apostleship.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse can be seen embodying the notion of Christian suffering as a participation in Christ’s sufferings. It resonates with the belief that suffering can have a redemptive quality when endured for the faith. This sentiment is echoed in the concept of “dying to self” which is prevalent in Christian thought, where believers are encouraged to surrender their own desires and sufferings for the sake of becoming more Christ-like.

Different Christian traditions might emphasize various aspects of this verse. For example, Catholicism may connect it to the idea of redemptive suffering shared with Christ, while Protestantism might focus on the demonstration of faith through perseverance.

Practical Applications

This verse can inspire modern believers to find purpose and hope in their struggles. Followers of Jesus can understand that their personal and communal trials may serve to deepen their faith and witness to others. It encourages resilience and steadfastness in the face of adversity, reminding believers that their sufferings are not in vain but can reveal the power and life of Christ to others.

Additionally, this verse may provide comfort to those who feel their work or suffering for their faith goes unnoticed. It can be a source of encouragement to anyone who has dedicated their life to a cause or service greater than themselves.

Cross-References

Romans 8:17 – “And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.”
Philippians 3:10 – “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;”
Galatians 2:20 – “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”

Language Study

The original Greek language provides deeper insight into key words of the verse:

“Delivered” (Greek: παραδιδόμεθα, paradidometha) often means to be handed over or given up, implying a surrender or being consigned to something, often against one’s will.
“Alway” (Greek: πάντοτε, pantote) translates to “always” or “at all times,” emphasizing the continuous nature of the action.
“Death” (Greek: θάνατος, thanatos) in this context reflects the physical death, but it is also used metaphorically in Scripture to refer to spiritual death or separation from God.
“Manifest” (Greek: φανερόω, phaneroo) means to make visible, apparent, or to reveal. It highlights the revelation of the life of Jesus in their mortal bodies as something clearly seen or demonstrated.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient religions, the concept of sharing in a deity’s suffering is not unknown. For example, in certain mystery religions, initiates would participate in rituals that symbolized the suffering and subsequent transcendence of a god. However, the Christian idea that suffering is part of a believer’s identification with their Savior and can have redemptive value is distinctive.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific standpoint, the discussion about enduring suffering relates more to the study of psychology and the human response to stress and trauma. Modern psychology recognizes that the human response to suffering can lead to growth and resilience, a concept known as post-traumatic growth. While not directly aligned with Paul’s theological message, it does intersect with the idea that hardship can result in positive transformations.

Commentaries

Commentaries on this verse highlight the paradox of Christianity where life comes through death. Matthew Henry’s commentary explains that the apostle’s constant exposure to death is like a dying Jesus was at work within them, which allows the life of Jesus to be evident in their mortal bodies. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary emphasizes that Paul sees his sufferings as a way to demonstrate the power of the risen Christ. John MacArthur highlights the theme of divine power being perfected in human weakness, which is reflected in the apostle’s willingness to suffer for the cause of Christ.