What does 2 Corinthians 5:16 mean?

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Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more. 2 Corinthians 5:16

Explanation

2 Corinthians 5:16 speaks to a fundamental change in perspective that occurs when a person becomes a Christian. The apostle Paul indicates that the way believers view others, and even how they viewed Christ, is transformed. The phrase “know we no man after the flesh” suggests that personal relationships and evaluations are no longer based on worldly criteria such as social status, ethnicity, or external appearance. Paul is highlighting that Christians should see others from a spiritual standpoint, recognizing the new creation in Christ.

Furthermore, Paul refers to knowing Christ “after the flesh,” which traditionally has been understood to mean knowing Christ in a merely human and worldly sense as opposed to recognizing His spiritual and divine nature. The shift he mentions – “yet now henceforth know we him no more” – indicates that his understanding of Jesus has moved beyond the physical and historical Jesus to the risen and glorified Christ, emphasizing the spiritual relationship believers now have with Him beyond his physical presence on earth.

Historical Context

The Apostle Paul wrote 2 Corinthians to the church in Corinth sometime around 55-57 AD. This was a church facing many challenges, including internal dissension, false teachings, and misunderstandings about Christian life and doctrine. In the broader cultural context, Corinth was a cosmopolitan city with diverse cultures and religious practices. Paul’s teaching sought to anchor the young Christian community in the midst of these influences and to encourage them to live out their new identity in Christ.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse underscores the Christian belief in a fundamental transformation that takes place upon conversion—what is often referred to as ‘regeneration’ or ‘being born again’. This transformation changes how believers relate to others, urging them to form judgments based on spiritual truths rather than external appearances.

The distinction between knowing Christ “after the flesh” and in a spiritual sense can also be seen as a movement from understanding Jesus simply as a historical figure to embracing Him as the resurrected and eternal Son of God, central to Christian faith.

Practical Applications

The practical application of this verse is pertinent in encouraging Christians to form opinions of others based on their identity in Christ rather than external factors. It invites believers to practice love and acceptance, seeking to view others from a Christ-centered perspective that values their spiritual potential and contribution within the framework of God’s kingdom.

It also serves as a reminder for Christians to cultivate their personal relationship with Jesus beyond mere knowledge of His life and teachings, delving into a deep, spiritual connection with Him.

Cross-References

Galatians 3:28: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.”
Romans 8:9: “But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.”

Language Study

The Greek term for “know” in this verse is “oída,” which conveys understanding or recognition. When Paul states “know we no man after the flesh,” he uses the term “kata sarka,” where “kata” generally means according to, and “sarka” means flesh. This indicates that the valuation based on fleshly, worldly standards is being contrasted with spiritual valuation.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient cultures, status and societal roles were stringently defined by birth, caste, or external traits. In stark contrast, the Christian message presented in this verse eschews such divisions, proposing a more egalitarian view that is centered on spiritual rebirth and unity in Christ, which was quite revolutionary in a first-century context.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives can offer insights into how human beings form judgments based on physical appearance or social cues. Psychology suggests that humans have an inherent bias to categorize and evaluate others based on visible traits. Paul’s exhortation can be seen as a call to transcend these natural inclinations, aligning with the idea that ethical and spiritual development involves moving beyond basic instincts or prejudices.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians have offered their interpretations of this passage. Some see it as a pivotal statement of Christian anthropology, where the intrinsic value of a person is no longer determined by temporal standards but by their relationship with Christ. Other commentaries might focus on the eschatological implications, pointing out that knowing Christ “no more” after the flesh denotes a new era initiated by His resurrection, in which the spiritual reality of Christ’s lordship takes precedence over His previous earthly existence.