2 Corinthians 5 4

2 Corinthians 5:4 kjv

For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life.

2 Corinthians 5:4 nkjv

For we who are in this tent groan, being burdened, not because we want to be unclothed, but further clothed, that mortality may be swallowed up by life.

2 Corinthians 5:4 niv

For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life.

2 Corinthians 5:4 esv

For while we are still in this tent, we groan, being burdened ? not that we would be unclothed, but that we would be further clothed, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life.

2 Corinthians 5:4 nlt

While we live in these earthly bodies, we groan and sigh, but it's not that we want to die and get rid of these bodies that clothe us. Rather, we want to put on our new bodies so that these dying bodies will be swallowed up by life.

2 Corinthians 5 verses

2 Corinthians 5 4 Meaning

This verse expresses the deep longing of believers for their eternal, heavenly dwelling. It highlights the contrast between their current mortal existence and the future resurrection, when their earthly bodies will be replaced by glorified, immortal ones. This transformation is eagerly awaited as the final overcoming of death.

2 Corinthians 5 4 Context

Second Corinthians chapter 5 focuses on the contrast between our earthly existence and our future heavenly life in Christ. Paul uses the metaphor of a temporary earthly tent and a permanent heavenly building to illustrate this. In this chapter, Paul is addressing the Corinthian church, dealing with their issues of disunity and perhaps spiritual immaturity. He reassures them that their hope is not in this earthly life, but in their resurrection and eternal fellowship with God through Christ. The immediate context is the assurance of eternal life after death for believers, which is the foundation of their steadfastness amidst suffering and persecution.

2 Corinthians 5 4 Word Analysis

• ē oida (η οιδα): "We know" or "we are certain." This signifies a firm conviction and understanding, not mere speculation. It’s a state of confident knowledge grounded in faith.
• gar (γαρ): "for" or "because." This is a conjunction introducing a reason or explanation for what was stated in the preceding verse.
• ean (εαν): "if" or "when." A conditional particle introducing a potential situation or outcome.
• peripatēs (περιπατησης): "sojourn" or "walk." In this context, it refers to living or dwelling in this earthly tent. The verb suggests a temporary or transient stay.
• tou (του): "of the." Genitive article.
• geïnou (γηνου): "earthly" or "terrestrial." Referring to something made of earth, emphasizing the mortal and physical nature of the body.
• outhis (ουθεως): "dwelling" or "tabernacle." Refers to a temporary dwelling place, a tent. It carries the connotation of impermanence and vulnerability.
• kathairētai (καθαιρεθη): "is dissolved," "is torn down," or "is destroyed." Implies a dismantling or demolition, applicable to the decay and death of the physical body.
• apo (απο): "from." Preposition indicating separation.
• tou (του): "the." Genitive article.
• ouraniou (ουρανιου): "heavenly." Pertaining to heaven, the abode of God.
• oikou (οικου): "building" or "house." This refers to a more permanent, constructed dwelling, contrasting with the tent.
• echein (εχειν): "to have" or "to possess."
• para (παρα): "from." Preposition indicating source or origin.
• theou (θεου): "God." Genitive case.
• aiōnion (αιωνιον): "eternal" or "everlasting." Refers to a dwelling that transcends time and possesses an unending nature.
• cheiropoiēton (χειροποιητον): "made with hands" or "man-made." This adjective signifies that the heavenly dwelling is not a product of human construction but of divine origin.
• ex (εξ): "from" or "out of." Preposition indicating source.
• en (εν): "in" or "with." Preposition indicating means or location.
• tois (τοις): "the." Dative plural article.
• ouranois (ουρανοις): "heavens." Plural form of heaven.

Group Analysis:

• "This earthly tent" (tou geïnou outhises): This phrase refers to the physical body as a temporary, fragile dwelling that is prone to decay and death. It highlights our current transient state.
• "is dissolved" (kathairētai): This verb emphasizes the breakdown and end of the earthly existence of the body, its decomposition upon death.
• "we have a building from God, an eternal house in the heavens, not made with hands" (oikou echomen apo theou aiōnion, ou cheiropoiēton en tois ouranois): This powerful clause describes the believer's future, incorruptible body. It originates from God, is permanent, heavenly in nature, and supernatural in its creation, contrasting sharply with the perishable earthly tent. The emphasis is on God's provision for the redeemed.

2 Corinthians 5 4 Bonus Section

The metaphor of the "tent" (skēnē) is rich, evoking the Old Testament Tabernacle, the dwelling place of God amongst His people in the wilderness. Just as the Tabernacle was portable and temporary, so is our earthly body. However, the heavenly dwelling described by Paul mirrors the permanent Temple in its final, glorious fulfillment in God’s presence. This "house not made with hands" signifies a perfect and direct fellowship with God, freed from the limitations and imperfections of our current existence. The assurance of this eternal dwelling is a key aspect of the New Covenant, as believers are indwelt by the Holy Spirit, who serves as a "down payment" or guarantee of this future inheritance.

2 Corinthians 5 4 Commentary

Paul reassures believers of their secure and eternal destiny, assuring them that the dissolution of their earthly bodies (death) is not the end. Instead, it results in gaining a permanent, heavenly, God-created dwelling. This new existence is superior to the current one, offering a glorified, imperishable state. The concept is one of hope and a future inheritance, providing comfort amidst the present struggles. This spiritual reality is the foundation for confident living and service, knowing that temporary afflictions are incomparably outweighed by future glory. It's about a sure possession awaiting the redeemed.