2 Corinthians 5 13

2 Corinthians 5:13 kjv

For whether we be beside ourselves, it is to God: or whether we be sober, it is for your cause.

2 Corinthians 5:13 nkjv

For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; or if we are of sound mind, it is for you.

2 Corinthians 5:13 niv

If we are "out of our mind," as some say, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you.

2 Corinthians 5:13 esv

For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you.

2 Corinthians 5:13 nlt

If it seems we are crazy, it is to bring glory to God. And if we are in our right minds, it is for your benefit.

2 Corinthians 5 verses

2 Corinthians 5 13 Meaning

In 2 Corinthians 5:13, Paul defends his ministerial conduct, affirming that whether his actions appear "mad" or "sober," they are always driven by divine purpose. If his zealous or seemingly unconventional ministry (perceived as being "beside ourselves") seems extreme, it is solely for the glory and service of God. Conversely, if his conduct is measured, rational, and controlled (perceived as being "sober"), it is for the spiritual benefit, understanding, and edification of the Corinthian believers. This verse encapsulates Paul's single-minded devotion to Christ, making it clear that his every action in ministry, regardless of human perception, stems from either direct service to God or pastoral care for His people.

2 Corinthians 5 13 Context

2 Corinthians 5:13 sits within Paul's fervent defense of his apostolic ministry and personal integrity, which had been under attack by "super-apostles" or rival teachers in Corinth. Chapters 1-7 form a major section where Paul confronts these challenges. The immediate context, 2 Corinthians 5:10-12, sets the stage for Paul's motivations: he speaks of all believers standing before the judgment seat of Christ (v. 10) and, knowing the "terror of the Lord," he persuades people (v. 11). This deep accountability to God underpins all his actions. He also declares his desire to be "made manifest to God" (v. 11) and, he hopes, also to the consciences of the Corinthians. Verse 12 clarifies that his self-commendation is not for his own boast but to give the Corinthians a defense against those who boast in outward appearance rather than inner character. Verse 13 directly addresses the perceived style of his ministry, offering a definitive explanation for its variations, all rooted in service to God and for the believers.

2 Corinthians 5 13 Word analysis

• For (γάρ - gar): This conjunction serves as a causal explanation, linking Paul's forthcoming defense directly to the previous verse (v. 12). He's explaining the reasons for his ministry methods.
• whether (εἴτε - eite): A particle introducing alternative conditions, presenting two contrasting aspects of Paul's ministry. It doesn't imply uncertainty but acknowledges different ways his conduct might be perceived.
• we be beside ourselves (ἐξέστημεν - exestēmen): From existēmi, meaning "to put out of place," "to go out of one's mind," "to be insane or mad." In Hellenistic thought, intense, ecstatic speech or seemingly irrational behavior could be dismissed as madness, especially by those valuing calm, reasoned rhetoric. Paul acknowledges that his passionate, fervent preaching, or perhaps his willingness to suffer indignity, might appear irrational or even deranged to some. This word carries a strong connotation of being beyond conventional reason.
• it is to God (θεῷ - theō): Dative case. Signifies ultimate purpose and dedication. If his behavior seems "mad," its object and motive are God alone. This could mean for God's glory, at God's command, or as an expression of his personal devotion to God which bypasses human scrutiny. It reclaims the accusation of madness as a profound spiritual devotion.
• or whether (εἴτε - eite): Again, introducing the second alternative of his ministry's perceived style.
• we be sober (σωφρονοῦμεν - sōphronoumen): From sōphroneō, meaning "to be of sound mind," "to be sensible," "prudent," "self-controlled." This describes rational, self-disciplined, and well-ordered conduct. Paul uses this to represent times when his teaching was clear, methodical, and pastorally sensitive, adhering to conventional wisdom and calm communication. It stands in direct contrast to "beside ourselves."
• it is for your cause (ὑμῖν - humin): Dative case. Signifies benefit or advantage. If his ministry appears "sober," its purpose is for the Corinthians' well-being, edification, understanding, and spiritual growth. His disciplined approach serves their needs, making the gospel accessible and clear.

Words-group by words-group analysis:

• "whether we be beside ourselves, it is to God": This phrase directly confronts the accusation of "madness" (a common charge against prophets and fervent spiritual leaders). Paul doesn't deny the perception but clarifies the motive. Any passionate, seemingly "over-the-top" or unconventional aspect of his ministry is not for personal gain or self-promotion but springs from an intense devotion to God, and directed at God. It means his actions, when perceived as "mad," are understood and justified only by God.
• "or whether we be sober, it is for your cause": This second phrase provides the alternative. When his ministry appears measured, rational, and controlled, it is for the direct benefit, instruction, and spiritual maturity of the Corinthian believers. This shows Paul's pastoral heart—he modulates his approach depending on what best serves either God's glory or the needs of the church, ensuring his methods always align with divine and redemptive purposes. He adapts his delivery for the audience.

2 Corinthians 5 13 Bonus section

• This verse highlights the inherent tension often faced by ministers: navigating between perceived "folly" for Christ and strategic "sobriety" for the sake of the church. True spiritual passion, though it might appear irrational to a world focused on human reason, is wholly acceptable and dedicated to God.
• Paul’s rhetoric here is highly skilled; he takes the criticisms leveled against him ("madness") and re-frames them as virtues motivated by divine purposes. He doesn't deny the perception but redirects its explanation from human fault-finding to spiritual devotion and pastoral love.
• The "fear of the Lord" (2 Cor 5:11) immediately preceding this verse explains why Paul would commit every facet of his ministry so entirely to God and the church. His deep awareness of eternal accountability fuels both his ecstatic fervor and his sensible instruction.
• This passage implicitly warns against judging spiritual ministries solely by human, rational, or culturally conventional standards. The Kingdom of God often operates in ways that defy worldly logic, valuing heartfelt devotion and sacrificial service over polished presentation or self-serving prudence.

2 Corinthians 5 13 Commentary

2 Corinthians 5:13 is a powerful apologia for the apostle Paul's diverse and dynamic ministry. It directly counters criticisms regarding his conduct by declaring his single, ultimate motive: pleasing God and serving His people. The phrase "beside ourselves" acknowledges how some might view his profound spiritual experiences, passionate preaching, or willingness to suffer hardship as fanaticism or even mental instability—a common accusation against early Christians and prophets who operated outside conventional norms. Paul's retort is profound: such fervor, though misinterpreted by man, is pure devotion "to God." It’s an act of worship and obedience seen by the Divine.

Conversely, his "sober" moments—those instances of rational, calm instruction and thoughtful guidance—are always "for your cause," meaning for the Corinthians' spiritual growth and well-being. This duality illustrates the adaptability and intentionality of Paul’s ministry. He was not swayed by popular opinion or superficial judgment; his methods were consecrated either directly to God or strategically employed for the edification of believers. The verse underscores that effective ministry transcends human standards of propriety, always rooted in heavenly purposes and an unyielding commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ and His church. It calls believers to look beyond outward appearances to discern the true, God-centered motivations of a servant of God.