2 Corinthians 1:14

KJV

As also ye have acknowledged us in part, that we are your rejoicing, even as ye also [are] ours in the day of the Lord Jesus.

KJV (with Strong's)

As {G2531} also {G2532} ye have acknowledged {G1921} us {G2248} in {G575} part {G3313}, that {G3754} we are {G2070} your {G5216} rejoicing {G2745}, even as {G2509} ye {G5210} also {G2532} are ours {G2257} in {G1722} the day {G2250} of the Lord {G2962} Jesus {G2424}.

Complete Jewish Bible

as indeed you have already understood us in part; so that on the Day of our Lord Yeshua you can be as proud of us as we are of you.

Berean Standard Bible

as you have already understood us in part, so that you may boast of us just as we will boast of you in the day of our Lord Jesus.

American Standard Version

as also ye did acknowledge us in part, that we are your glorying, even as ye also are ours, in the day of our Lord Jesus.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Corinthians 1:14, the Apostle Paul articulates the profound, reciprocal bond of joy and recognition shared between himself and the Corinthian believers. He expresses confidence that, despite any lingering misunderstandings or partial acknowledgments, the Corinthians genuinely recognized the authenticity and divine origin of his apostolic ministry. This mutual affirmation serves as a present source of rejoicing for both parties, a joy that anticipates its ultimate and complete validation on the future "day of the Lord Jesus," when all true relationships and faithful service will be fully revealed and celebrated in Christ.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within Paul's opening defense and explanation to the Corinthian church, specifically following his affirmation of transparent and sincere conduct in [2 Corinthians 1:12-13](/2_corinthians/1-12-13 "2 Corinthians 1:12-13 - Paul's Sincerity and Transparency"). Having just stated that his conscience bears witness to his holiness and godly sincerity, Paul now turns to the Corinthians’ own understanding of him. The phrase "as also ye have acknowledged us in part" directly links back to his desire for them to fully comprehend his integrity, building on the idea that they already possess a foundational understanding. This verse serves as a bridge, transitioning from Paul's personal vindication to the shared hope and future validation that unites them, setting the stage for his subsequent explanation of his travel plans and the nature of God's "Yes" in Christ.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Corinthian church was a complex and often tumultuous community, marked by internal divisions, challenges to apostolic authority, and the influence of Hellenistic rhetoric and wisdom. Paul's ministry had been scrutinized, and his character and motives questioned by some factions, possibly influenced by rival teachers or "super-apostles" (as mentioned later in [2 Corinthians 11:5](/2_corinthians/11-5 "2 Corinthians 11:5 - Super-Apostles")). In this cultural milieu, a leader's credibility was often tied to their rhetorical skill, public image, and consistent behavior. Paul's emphasis on their "acknowledgment" (even if "in part") highlights his concern for their perception of his genuine, Spirit-led ministry, contrasting it with the superficiality that might have been valued by some in Corinth. The "day of the Lord Jesus" was a common eschatological concept in early Christianity, representing the ultimate divine vindication and judgment, a future event that provided hope and perspective amidst present struggles.
* **Key Themes:** This verse underscores several significant themes prevalent in 2 Corinthians and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it highlights **Apostolic Vindication and Integrity**, as Paul consistently defends his ministry against detractors, asserting its divine origin and his sincere conduct before God and the Corinthians (see [2 Corinthians 1:12](/2_corinthians/1-12 "2 Corinthians 1:12 - Paul's Conscience")). Secondly, it emphasizes **Mutual Recognition and Reciprocal Relationships** within the body of Christ, portraying a healthy dynamic where believers are a source of joy and honor to one another, reflecting the organic unity of the church (compare with Paul's joy in the Philippians in [Philippians 4:1](/philippians/4-1 "Philippians 4:1 - Paul's Joy in the Philippians")). Thirdly, the mention of "the day of the Lord Jesus" introduces the theme of **Eschatological Hope and Future Validation**, grounding their present relationship and Paul's ministry in the ultimate judgment and revelation of Christ, where all things will be made clear and true faithfulness rewarded (a theme also seen in [1 Corinthians 1:8](/1_corinthians/1-8 "1 Corinthians 1:8 - The Day of the Lord Jesus")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **acknowledged (Greek, _epiginṓskō'_):** From ἐπί and γινώσκω, this verb signifies to "know upon some mark," implying a full and complete knowledge, a deep recognition, or a thorough understanding, rather than a mere superficial acquaintance. It suggests that the Corinthians had discerned the true nature of Paul and his apostleship, moving beyond initial impressions to a deeper, more accurate perception of his character and the divine authority behind his ministry.
* **rejoicing (Greek, _kaúchēma'_):** Derived from καυχάομαι, this term refers to a boast, a ground for boasting, a glory, or something to be proud of. It is not merely a fleeting feeling of happiness, but a profound source of honor, commendation, or pride. Paul uses it to convey that the Corinthians are a significant source of his joy and honor, just as he is theirs, indicating a relationship of mutual pride and spiritual commendation.
* **day (Greek, _hēméra'_):** While literally meaning the time space between dawn and dark or a 24-hour period, in this context, _hēméra_ is used figuratively to denote a specific period, always defined by the context. Here, "the day of the Lord Jesus" refers to a definitive eschatological period—the time of Christ's return, judgment, and the full revelation of His kingdom. It signifies the ultimate point of validation and consummation for believers and their service.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"As also ye have acknowledged us in part":** Paul asserts that the Corinthian believers, to some degree, have come to a true and deep understanding of him and his apostolic ministry. The phrase "in part" (ἀπὸ μέρους) does not necessarily imply a deficiency on the Corinthians' side, but rather acknowledges the present reality that full understanding and vindication await the future. It could also subtly hint at the ongoing process of discernment in a church still grappling with various influences.
* **"that we are your rejoicing":** Paul states that he and his fellow workers (Silas and Timothy, implied) are a source of profound joy, honor, and pride for the Corinthians. This reflects the deep spiritual bond and the positive impact Paul's ministry had on their lives and faith.
* **"even as ye also [are] ours in the day of the Lord Jesus":** This clause establishes the reciprocity of the relationship. Just as Paul is a source of rejoicing for them, they are also a source of rejoicing for him. The phrase "in the day of the Lord Jesus" sets the ultimate context for this mutual joy. It signifies that this present, partial acknowledgment and rejoicing will find its full, complete, and public validation at Christ's return, when the true fruit of their shared faith and ministry will be fully revealed and celebrated.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs **Reciprocity** as a central literary device, emphasizing the mutual nature of the relationship between himself and the Corinthians. The structure "we are your rejoicing, even as ye also are ours" creates a balanced, almost chiastic, expression of shared spiritual benefit and honor. This highlights the ideal of Christian community where believers are a source of encouragement and validation for one another. Furthermore, the phrase "in the day of the Lord Jesus" introduces **Eschatological Language**, projecting the present reality into a future, ultimate context. This serves to elevate the significance of their current relationship, grounding it in the certainty of divine validation and the ultimate triumph of Christ. The slight **Antithesis** between "in part" (referring to present understanding) and the implied "full" understanding "in the day of the Lord Jesus" adds depth, acknowledging the limitations of present knowledge while pointing to a future, perfect revelation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse beautifully encapsulates the theological principle of mutual affirmation and the eschatological hope within the Christian community. It teaches that authentic Christian relationships are characterized by reciprocal joy and recognition, where believers find legitimate pride and encouragement in one another's faith and service. This mutual rejoicing is not based on human achievement but on the shared reality of being "in Christ." The ultimate validation of these relationships and ministries is not found in present human approval, which is often "in part," but in the glorious "day of the Lord Jesus." This future perspective provides endurance and purpose, reminding us that our true worth and the fruit of our labor will be fully revealed and celebrated by Christ Himself.

* [Philippians 2:16](/philippians/2-16 "Philippians 2:16 - Paul's Boast in the Day of Christ")
* [1 Thessalonians 2:19-20](/1_thessalonians/2-19-20 "1 Thessalonians 2:19-20 - Our Hope, Joy, and Crown")
* [Romans 15:5-7](/romans/15-5-7 "Romans 15:5-7 - Acceptance and Mutual Edification")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
2 Corinthians 1:14 offers a profound lens through which to examine our own relationships within the body of Christ. Are we a source of "rejoicing" for others, genuinely affirming their gifts, service, and walk with God? Do we seek to truly "acknowledge" and understand those who minister among us, extending grace and recognizing their integrity even when we might not fully grasp every aspect of their work? This verse challenges us to move beyond superficial interactions to cultivate deep, reciprocal bonds of mutual encouragement and honor. It also calls us to live with an eternal perspective, understanding that while our present efforts and relationships may be "in part," their ultimate significance and validation rest not on human applause but on the coming "day of the Lord Jesus." This future hope should motivate us to serve faithfully, love genuinely, and persevere through misunderstandings, knowing that our true reward and rejoicing await in Christ's presence.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways can I be a source of genuine "rejoicing" and encouragement for fellow believers in my community?**
* **How can I cultivate a deeper, more complete "acknowledgment" of those who serve in ministry, even when I might not fully understand their methods or decisions?**
* **How does the hope of "the day of the Lord Jesus" influence my present relationships and my perspective on the challenges I face in ministry or Christian community?**
* **What does it mean for my relationships to be ultimately validated by Christ, rather than by immediate human approval?**

### FAQ

**What does Paul mean by "acknowledged us in part"?**

Answer: The phrase "in part" (ἀπὸ μέρους) does not necessarily imply a deficiency or a lack of understanding on the Corinthians' side, but rather acknowledges the present reality that full understanding and complete vindication await the future "day of the Lord Jesus." It suggests that while the Corinthians had genuinely recognized Paul's true character and the divine origin of his ministry, there might have been ongoing challenges or incomplete comprehension that prevented a total, unanimous affirmation at that moment. Paul is affirming their existing recognition while pointing to the ultimate, perfect revelation.

**What is "the day of the Lord Jesus"?**

Answer: "The day of the Lord Jesus" is an eschatological term referring to the future return of Jesus Christ, His judgment, and the full establishment of His kingdom. It is the time when all things will be made clear, true righteousness will be vindicated, and the faithful service of believers will be fully revealed and rewarded. For Paul, this future event serves as the ultimate validation for his ministry and the shared hope for all believers, as seen in passages like [1 Corinthians 1:8](/1_corinthians/1-8 "1 Corinthians 1:8 - The Day of the Lord Jesus") and [Philippians 1:6](/philippians/1-6 "Philippians 1:6 - God's Work Completed at the Day of Christ").

**How can Paul say the Corinthians are his "rejoicing" when they caused him so much trouble?**

Answer: Despite the significant challenges and criticisms Paul faced from the Corinthian church, his deep pastoral love for them remained. His "rejoicing" (καύχημα) refers to the genuine spiritual fruit of his labor among them—their conversion, growth in faith, and the very existence of the church itself. Even amidst their imperfections, they were a testament to God's grace and a source of legitimate pride for Paul as their spiritual father. This reflects a profound, Christ-like love that sees potential and values the redeemed, even when they are flawed, much like Paul's affection for the Thessalonians in [1 Thessalonians 2:19-20](/1_thessalonians/2-19-20 "1 Thessalonians 2:19-20 - Our Hope, Joy, and Crown").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
2 Corinthians 1:14 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Jesus Christ, who is both the object and the source of our mutual rejoicing and future validation. The "day of the Lord Jesus" is not merely a distant event but the culmination of God's redemptive plan centered on His Son. Christ Himself is the ultimate "rejoicing" for all believers, the one in whom we boast and find our true identity and worth (as Paul states in [Philippians 3:3](/philippians/3-3 "Philippians 3:3 - Boasting in Christ Jesus")). He is the one who fully "acknowledges" us, not "in part" but completely, having perfectly fulfilled the law and offered Himself as the spotless sacrifice for our sins, making us acceptable before God (see [Colossians 1:22](/colossians/1-22 "Colossians 1:22 - Presented Holy and Blameless")). Our mutual joy in one another, as Paul describes, is a reflection of the unity and love that Christ Himself prayed for among His followers in [John 17:21-23](/john/17-21-23 "John 17:21-23 - Jesus' Prayer for Unity")). Furthermore, Christ is the one who will ultimately vindicate and reward the faithful service of His people on that glorious day, transforming our present, partial understanding into a full and complete revelation of His glory and our place in Him, confirming that our labor in the Lord is never in vain ([1 Corinthians 15:58](/1_corinthians/15-58 "1 Corinthians 15:58 - Labor Not in Vain")). Thus, all Christian relationships, all ministry, and all hope for future validation are firmly rooted in and flow from the person and work of Jesus Christ.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

1 Corinthians 1:8

Who shall also confirm you unto the end, [that ye may be] blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Thessalonians 2:19

For what [is] our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? [Are] not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?

1 Thessalonians 2:20

For ye are our glory and joy.

Philippians 2:16

Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.

1 Thessalonians 3:13

To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.

Philippians 1:10

That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ;

Philippians 4:1

¶ Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, [my] dearly beloved.