2 Corinthians 4 5

2 Corinthians 4:5 kjv

For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.

2 Corinthians 4:5 nkjv

For we do not preach ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord, and ourselves your bondservants for Jesus' sake.

2 Corinthians 4:5 niv

For what we preach is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus' sake.

2 Corinthians 4:5 esv

For what we proclaim is not ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, with ourselves as your servants for Jesus' sake.

2 Corinthians 4:5 nlt

You see, we don't go around preaching about ourselves. We preach that Jesus Christ is Lord, and we ourselves are your servants for Jesus' sake.

2 Corinthians 4 verses

2 Corinthians 4 5 Meaning

Paul emphatically declares that the essence of his ministry and the message proclaimed by him and his co-workers is not self-promotion or human wisdom. Instead, their central message is the absolute sovereignty and divine identity of Jesus Christ as Lord. Concurrently, their personal posture and role towards the believers are those of humble bondservants, not for their own benefit, but entirely for the glory and purposes of Jesus Christ. This verse contrasts self-exaltation with Christ-exaltation and selfless service.

2 Corinthians 4 5 Context

Chapter 4 of 2 Corinthians finds Paul vigorously defending the authenticity and integrity of his apostolic ministry against various criticisms, likely from false apostles or Judaizers who emphasized human wisdom, outward appearance, or self-promotion. He begins by stating that since they have received this ministry by God's mercy, they do not lose heart (v. 1). Paul contrasts their open, truthful ministry with those who rely on "craftiness" or "adulterate the word of God" (v. 2). He speaks of unveiling the truth so that people may see the "light of the gospel of the glory of Christ" (v. 4). This sets the stage for verse 5, which clarifies precisely what is being proclaimed and who is doing the proclaiming, fundamentally aligning their work with Christ alone. It distinguishes their spiritual message, powered by God, from worldly wisdom or self-serving rhetoric prevalent in Greco-Roman culture, where rhetoricians and philosophers often sought fame and financial gain through impressive speeches. Paul’s declaration challenges both the Roman cult of Caesar (where the Emperor was proclaimed 'Lord') and any Jewish expectations of a purely political Messiah who would merely liberate them from Roman rule without claiming divine authority.

2 Corinthians 4 5 Word analysis

• For (γὰρ - gar): This conjunction signifies a causal relationship, connecting this verse to the preceding thoughts. It explains why they do not "lose heart" (v. 1), nor do they employ "craftiness" or distort God’s word (v. 2). It also provides the rationale behind the light of the gospel that combats the "god of this world" who blinds unbelievers (v. 4). Their preaching focus is the reason for their integrity and hope.
• we preach (κήρυσσομεν - kēryssomen): From kēryssō, meaning "to proclaim as a herald," "to preach," or "to announce authoritatively." It suggests a public, official, and unequivocal declaration, not mere discussion or sharing personal opinion. Paul uses the first-person plural, encompassing himself and his fellow gospel workers (e.g., Timothy, Titus).
• not ourselves (οὐχ ἑαυτοὺς - ouch heautous): This is a direct negation and rejection of self-centeredness in ministry. It implies that the content, focus, and ultimate end of their proclamation are not their own abilities, reputation, wisdom, financial gain, or personal glory. This was a radical stance against the self-aggrandizing rhetoric common among ancient sophists and other religious figures.
• but (ἀλλὰ - alla): A strong adversative conjunction that presents a stark contrast to the preceding negative statement. It introduces the true object of their proclamation.
• Jesus Christ (Χριστὸν Ἰησοῦν - Christon Iēsoun): "Christ" (Christos) is the Greek translation of the Hebrew Mashiach (Messiah), meaning "Anointed One." "Jesus" (Iēsous) is His personal name, meaning "The Lord is Salvation." The combination points to His divine commission as the Anointed Savior and King. Their message is deeply personal and centered on this specific, historical, and divine figure.
• as Lord (Κύριον - Kyrion): This is one of the most significant terms. Kyrios denotes supreme authority, owner, master, and sovereign. In the Septuagint (Greek OT), Kyrios often translates the divine name YHWH. Attributing "Lord" to Jesus declared His divinity, His supreme authority over all creation and humanity, and implicitly, His worthiness of worship. This was a direct challenge to the Roman political demand to confess Caesar as Kyrios. To confess Jesus as Lord was a foundational confession for early Christians (Rom 10:9).
• and ourselves (ἑαυτοὺς δὲ - heautous de): The particle de introduces a complementary aspect of their identity and role, contrasting it with the message itself. It refers to Paul and his associates.
• as your servants (δούλους ὑμῶν - doulous hymōn): Doulos means "slave" or "bondservant," implying total dedication and subservience, not just a hired helper. This word represents the antithesis of the honor and status that first-century society often pursued. Paul, despite his apostolic authority, deliberately takes on the lowest social status in relation to the Corinthian believers, willing to labor for their benefit and spiritual well-being without expectation of personal gain or prestige. This embodies radical humility and service.
• for Jesus' sake (διὰ Ἰησοῦν - dia Iēsoun): Dia here with the accusative means "on account of," "because of," or "for the sake of" Jesus. It expresses the ultimate motivation, purpose, and beneficiary of their self-sacrificial ministry. Their servanthood is not arbitrary or for the Corinthians' personal praise, but a direct expression of their allegiance and devotion to Christ, to advance His kingdom and glory. It ensures that even their humble service ultimately points back to Him.

Word-groups Analysis:

• "For what we preach is not ourselves": This phrase establishes the foundational principle of a Christ-centered ministry, forcefully rejecting any self-aggrandizement, intellectual pride, or personal agenda from the evangelist. It highlights the divine, not human, source and subject of the gospel message.
• "but Jesus Christ as Lord": This is the heart of the gospel. It unequivocally asserts the singular and sovereign authority of Jesus as Messiah and divine Ruler. The ministry's singular content and object is His person, work, and rightful claim to allegiance.
• "and ourselves as your servants for Jesus' sake": This complex phrase delineates the messenger's posture and ultimate motivation. It embodies extreme humility, turning the common pursuit of social elevation on its head by embracing a 'slave' status. This servanthood is directed towards the community ("your servants") but ultimately empowered and focused on Christ's purposes and glory ("for Jesus' sake"). It shows that genuine ministry is characterized by self-emptying service motivated by love and devotion to the Lord, echoing Christ's own servanthood.

2 Corinthians 4 5 Bonus section

The pairing of "Jesus Christ" with "Lord" (Kyrios) is a powerful theological statement, particularly potent in the Roman Empire where Caesar was deified and proclaimed Kyrios. To confess "Jesus Christ as Lord" was an act of allegiance that directly challenged state authority and declared an even higher, divine sovereignty. This confession carries eschatological weight, pointing towards the day when every knee will bow and every tongue confess Jesus is Lord (Phil 2:10-11). Furthermore, Paul’s use of "servants" (douloi) not merely as "ministers" (diakonoi) elevates the level of dedication. A doulos was completely owned, and his will subject to his master's. Paul’s identification as a doulos for the Corinthian believers, but ultimately "for Jesus’ sake," underscores the total surrender and obedience demanded by true gospel ministry. This commitment ensures that even selfless acts towards others are ultimately an expression of devotion and loyalty to Christ, preserving His central role and glory.

2 Corinthians 4 5 Commentary

2 Corinthians 4:5 stands as a foundational text for understanding the nature of true Christian ministry. Paul, under fire from critics, presents an unambiguous manifesto: the proclamation of the gospel is about Jesus Christ alone, elevated to the divine status of Lord, not about the preacher’s charisma, intellect, or personal fame. This rejection of self in preaching is radical, directly counteracting human tendencies toward self-promotion and the pursuit of power or influence often seen in various spiritual leadership models. The accompanying declaration, that ministers are to be "servants" or "slaves" to the people, is an extension of this Christ-centered humility. This isn't servanthood out of weakness, but a conscious, deliberate choice "for Jesus' sake" – demonstrating that the very method and spirit of ministry must mirror the humility and self-sacrifice of Christ Himself. The focus remains on Christ’s preeminence and the advancement of His kingdom, even through the lowest positions, illustrating that God’s power is revealed in human weakness. This verse reminds all who minister to constantly examine their motives and content, ensuring that the light of the gospel always shines on Christ, never on themselves.

Practical examples:

• A preacher focuses entirely on unpacking Christ’s sacrifice, not on sharing captivating personal anecdotes that detract from the biblical text.
• A small group leader prioritizes helping members understand scripture and serve each other, rather than maintaining personal authority or control.
• A missionary learns the language and culture of the people they serve, adopting their ways humbly, to better convey the message of Christ.