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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 2 Corinthians 1:12–14. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
The apostle in these verses attests their integrity by the sincerity of their conversation. This he does not in a way of boasting and vain-glory, but as one good reason for desiring the help of prayer, as well as for the more comfortably trusting in God (Heb 13:18), and for the necessary vindication of himself from the aspersions of some persons at Corinth, who reproached his person and questioned his apostleship. Here,
I.He appeals to the testimony of conscience with rejoicing (Co2 1:12), in which observe,
1.The witness appealed to, namely, conscience, which is instead of a thousand witnesses. This God's deputy in the soul, and the voice of conscience is the voice of God. They rejoiced in the testimony of conscience, when their enemies reproached them, and were enraged against them. Note, The testimony of conscience for us, if that be right and upon good grounds, will be matter of rejoicing at all times and in all conditions.
2.The testimony this witness gave. And here take notice, Conscience witnessed,
(1.)Concerning their conversation, their constant course and tenour of life: by that we may judge of ourselves, and not by this or that single act.
(2.)Concerning the nature or manner of their conversation; that it was in simplicity and godly sincerity. This blessed apostle was a true Israelite, a man of plain dealing; you might know where to have him. He was not a man who seemed to be one thing and was another, but a man of sincerity.
(3.)Concerning the principle they acted from in all their conversation, both in the world and towards these Corinthians; and that was not fleshly wisdom, nor carnal politics and worldly views, but it was the grace of God, a vital gracious principle in their hearts, that cometh from God, and tendeth to God. Then will our conversation be well ordered when we live and act under the influence and command of such a gracious principle in the heart.
II.He appeals to the knowledge of the Corinthians with hope and confidence, Co2 1:13, Co2 1:14.
Their conversation did in part fall under the observation of the Corinthians; and these knew how they behaved themselves, how holily, and justly, and unblamably; they never found any thing in them unbecoming an honest man. This they had acknowledged in part already, and he doubted not but they would still do so to the end, that is, that they would never have any good reason to think or say otherwise of him, but that he was an honest man. And so there would be mutual rejoicing in one another. We are your rejoicing, even as you also are ours in the day of the Lord Jesus. Note, It is happy when ministers and people do rejoice in each other here; and this joy will be complete in that day when the great Shepherd of the sheep shall appear.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
3 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
Paul asserts that his boasting over his obedient children is noticed and that this will be to their advantage on the day of judgment.
"For we write none other things unto you, than what ye read or even acknowledge."
For since he spoke great things of himself and seemed to be bearing witness to himself, an odious thing, he again appeals to them as witnesses of what he says. For, he saith, let no one think that what I say is a boastful flourish of writing; for we declare unto you what yourselves know; and that we lie not ye more than all others can bear us witness. For, when ye read, ye acknowledge that what ye know that we perform in our actions, this we say also in our writings, and your testimony doth not contradict our epistles; but the knowledge which ye had before of us is in harmony with your reading.
"As also ye did acknowledge us in part."
For your knowledge of us, he saith, is not from hearsay but from actual experience. The words "in part" he added from humility. For this is his wont, when necessity constraineth him to say any high-sounding thing, (for he never doth so otherwise,) as desiring quickly to repress again the elation arising from what he had said.
"And I hope ye will acknowledge even to the end."
Seest thou again how from the past he draws pledges for the future; and not from the past only, but also from the power of God? For he affirmed not absolutely, but cast the whole upon God and his hope in Him.
"That we are your glorying, even as ye also are ours, in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ."
Here he cuts at the root of the envy that his speech might occasion, by making them sharers and partners in the glory of his good works. "For these stick not with us, but pass over unto you also, and again from you to us." For seeing he had extolled himself, and produced proof of the past and given security for the future; lest his hearers should reflect on him for talking proudly, or be hurried to enviousness, he makes the rejoicing a common one and declares that this crown of praises is theirs.
Paul says that the Corinthians have understood only in part, because they have not yet rejected the false accusations which had been made against him.
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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. 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). 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). 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). 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).
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
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.
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.
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.
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
FAQ
What does Paul mean by "acknowledged us in part"?
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"?
"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 and Philippians 1:6.
How can Paul say the Corinthians are his "rejoicing" when they caused him so much trouble?
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.
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). 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). 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). 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). 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.