2 Corinthians 10:5

KJV

Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

KJV (with Strong's)

Casting down {G2507} imaginations {G3053}, and {G2532} every {G3956} high thing {G5313} that exalteth itself {G1869} against {G2596} the knowledge {G1108} of God {G2316}, and {G2532} bringing into captivity {G163} every {G3956} thought {G3540} to {G1519} the obedience {G5218} of Christ {G5547};

Complete Jewish Bible

and every arrogance that raises itself up against the knowledge of God; we take every thought captive and make it obey the Messiah.

Berean Standard Bible

We tear down arguments and every presumption set up against the knowledge of God; and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.

American Standard Version

casting down imaginations, and every high thing that is exalted against the knowledge of God, and bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Corinthians 10:5 is a foundational declaration of the spiritual nature of Christian warfare, emphasizing the believer's imperative to actively dismantle intellectual strongholds and prideful human reasoning that oppose divine truth. It calls for a radical submission of every thought to the supreme authority and transformative power of Jesus Christ, highlighting the mind as the primary battlefield in the pursuit of spiritual obedience and genuine knowledge of God.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse stands as a powerful climax within Paul's defense of his apostolic authority and ministry, which begins in [2 Corinthians 10](/2_corinthians/10 "2 Corinthians 10 - Paul's Apostolic Authority"). Paul is addressing criticisms from some in the Corinthian church who accused him of being weak in person but bold in letters. He contrasts their worldly methods of influence and judgment with the spiritual nature of his own warfare. Immediately preceding this verse, in [2 Corinthians 10:3-4](/2_corinthians/10-3-4 "2 Corinthians 10:3-4 - Spiritual Warfare and Divine Power"), Paul asserts that while he lives in the flesh, he does not wage war according to the flesh, but rather with "divinely powerful weapons for pulling down strongholds." Verse 5 then specifies the nature of these strongholds and the target of this spiritual battle: the realm of human thought and intellectual pride. This entire section underscores that the true conflict for the believer is spiritual, not carnal, and is aimed at the transformation of the mind.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Corinth was a bustling, cosmopolitan hub, known for its diverse philosophical schools, rhetorical prowess, and often, its moral laxity. Intellectual pride and sophistry were prevalent, with many valuing human wisdom and eloquent argumentation above divine revelation. Paul's opponents in Corinth likely prided themselves on their rhetorical skills and worldly wisdom, contrasting it with Paul's seemingly unimpressive physical presence and simple preaching style (cf. [1 Corinthians 1:18-25](/1_corinthians/1-18-25 "1 Corinthians 1:18-25 - The Wisdom of God and the Foolishness of the World")). The language of "casting down" and "bringing into captivity" draws heavily on **military imagery**, which would have been readily understood in the Roman world. Roman military campaigns often involved besieging and demolishing fortified cities ("strongholds") and taking prisoners of war ("bringing into captivity"). Paul masterfully employs this familiar imagery to describe the spiritual conquest of rebellious thoughts and intellectual fortresses that resist God's truth.
* **Key Themes:** [2 Corinthians 10:5](/2_corinthians/10-5 "2 Corinthians 10:5 - Casting Down Imaginations") contributes significantly to several major themes throughout Paul's letters. Firstly, it highlights the **spiritual nature of the Christian life and warfare**, emphasizing that the battle is not against external human adversaries but against internal intellectual and spiritual strongholds. Secondly, it underscores the **supremacy and authority of Christ** over all human wisdom and reasoning; every thought must ultimately submit to His lordship. This theme resonates with Paul's broader teaching on Christ's cosmic headship found in passages like [Colossians 1:15-20](/colossians/1-15-20 "Colossians 1:15-20 - The Supremacy of Christ"). Thirdly, the verse speaks to the critical importance of **intellectual humility and the transformation of the mind**. It challenges believers to scrutinize their thought patterns and beliefs, ensuring they align with divine revelation rather than worldly philosophies. This aligns perfectly with Paul's exhortation in [Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Be Transformed by the Renewing of Your Mind") to "be transformed by the renewing of your mind." Finally, it implicitly addresses the theme of **discerning truth from error**, a vital aspect of spiritual maturity in a world filled with competing ideologies.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Casting down (Greek, _kathairéō'_):** From *katá* (down) and *hairéomai* (to take, choose), this verb means to lower, pull down, demolish, or destroy. In this context, it signifies a forceful and complete dismantling, much like tearing down a fortified wall or stronghold. It implies an active, aggressive, and decisive action against the intellectual and spiritual barriers.
* **Imaginations (Greek, _logismós'_):** Derived from *logízomai* (to reckon, compute, consider), *logismós* refers to human reasonings, calculations, arguments, or intellectual constructs. It denotes the processes and conclusions of human thought, often those that are self-sufficient, proud, or lead to conclusions contrary to God's revealed truth. It's not merely fanciful thinking but deliberate, often prideful, intellectual systems.
* **Bringing into captivity (Greek, _aichmalōtízō'_):** This is a vivid military term meaning to take as a prisoner of war, to lead away captive, or to subdue. It powerfully portrays the act of conquering rebellious thoughts and making them subservient. The imagery is one of total victory, where what was once rebellious is now under the control and authority of a new master—Christ.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Casting down imaginations,"**: This phrase initiates the active spiritual warfare. "Imaginations" (Greek: *logismous*) refers to human reasonings, arguments, and intellectual constructs that originate from a fallen mind and often lead to conclusions contrary to God's truth. The act of "casting down" (Greek: *kathairountes*) signifies a forceful demolition or dismantling of these mental strongholds, implying a deliberate and aggressive engagement with one's own thought life, refusing to allow ungodly or unbiblical thought patterns to persist.
* **"and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God,"**: This expands the scope of the spiritual battle beyond mere "imaginations" to include "every high thing" (Greek: *hypsoma*). This term denotes anything elevated or lifted up, often implying arrogance or a barrier. In context, it refers to any intellectual, philosophical, or spiritual stronghold, any system of thought, or any form of pride that elevates itself in opposition to or defiance of the true and revealed "knowledge of God" (Greek: *gnōseōs tou Theou*). This encompasses not only individual thoughts but also societal ideologies, cultural narratives, and personal biases that contradict divine truth.
* **"and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;"**: This climactic phrase declares the ultimate goal and outcome of this spiritual warfare. The military imagery of "bringing into captivity" (Greek: *aichmalōtizontes*) emphasizes the complete subjugation of what was once rebellious. The target is "every thought" (Greek: *pan noēma*), signifying that no area of the mind, no concept, no reasoning, no internal narrative is exempt from this process. The purpose of this captivity is "to the obedience of Christ" (Greek: *eis tēn hypakoēn tou Christou*), meaning that all thoughts are to be brought into conformity with, and submission to, the will, truth, and lordship of Jesus Christ. This is not about suppressing thought, but about transforming it to align with divine truth.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several powerful literary devices in [2 Corinthians 10:5](/2_corinthians/10-5 "2 Corinthians 10:5 - The Battle for the Mind") to convey his message with force and clarity. The most prominent is **Military Metaphor**, where the spiritual struggle is depicted using terms drawn from warfare. "Casting down," "strongholds" (from the preceding verse), and "bringing into captivity" are all vivid military terms that paint a picture of an active, aggressive, and victorious campaign. This metaphor effectively communicates the intensity and seriousness of the battle for the mind. Additionally, Paul uses **Personification** when he speaks of "every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God." These abstract concepts of pride and false wisdom are given human-like qualities of arrogance and rebellion, making the spiritual enemies feel more tangible and formidable. Finally, the phrase "every thought" can be seen as a form of **Hyperbole**, emphasizing the comprehensive and absolute nature of the submission required. It highlights that no area of intellectual life, no matter how seemingly insignificant or personal, is exempt from the lordship of Christ.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[2 Corinthians 10:5](/2_corinthians/10-5 "2 Corinthians 10:5 - The Spiritual Battle for the Mind") is a cornerstone passage for understanding the spiritual discipline required in the Christian walk, particularly concerning the mind. It underscores the profound truth that genuine faith is not merely an emotional assent but involves a radical transformation of one's intellectual life. The battle against "imaginations" and "high things" speaks to the constant need for believers to critically evaluate their internal narratives, cultural influences, and philosophical frameworks against the unchanging standard of God's revealed truth. This verse calls for intellectual humility, recognizing that human reason, left to itself, can erect barriers against divine knowledge. The ultimate goal is not intellectual stagnation, but a mind fully surrendered to and illuminated by Christ, enabling a discerning and obedient walk.

* [Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Transformation by Renewing the Mind")
* [Ephesians 6:12](/ephesians/6-12 "Ephesians 6:12 - The True Nature of Spiritual Warfare")
* [Philippians 4:8](/philippians/4-8 "Philippians 4:8 - Thinking on What is True")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
For believers today, [2 Corinthians 10:5](/2_corinthians/10-5 "2 Corinthians 10:5 - Practical Application for the Mind") serves as a vital and challenging call to spiritual vigilance and intentional engagement with our inner lives. In an age saturated with information, competing worldviews, and constant digital input, the ability to discern and filter our thoughts is more critical than ever. This verse reminds us that our minds are not neutral territory; they are a primary battleground where truth contends with falsehood, and Christ's authority challenges human autonomy. Practical application involves a daily, conscious effort to align our thinking with God's Word. This means actively identifying thoughts, beliefs, or assumptions that contradict biblical truth, whether they stem from personal biases, cultural narratives, or even subtle temptations. It requires cultivating a habit of bringing these thoughts before Christ, allowing His truth to expose their falsehood and His Spirit to transform our understanding. This ongoing process of mental renewal is foundational to spiritual maturity, enabling us to live out our faith authentically and effectively in a complex world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "imaginations" or "high things" in your own thinking or in the world around you currently exalt themselves against the knowledge of God?**
* **How does the concept of "bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ" practically manifest in your daily decision-making and internal dialogue?**
* **What spiritual disciplines (e.g., Bible study, prayer, meditation) can you intentionally employ to strengthen your mind against ungodly influences and cultivate a Christ-centered mindset?**

### FAQ

**What are "imaginations" and "high things" in the context of this verse?**

Answer: In [2 Corinthians 10:5](/2_corinthians/10-5 "2 Corinthians 10:5 - Understanding Imaginations and High Things"), "imaginations" (Greek: *logismous*) refers to human reasonings, arguments, and intellectual constructs that are often self-sufficient or contrary to divine truth. These are the internal thought processes and conclusions we form. "High things" (Greek: *hypsoma*) denotes anything elevated or exalted, specifically any intellectual system, philosophy, ideology, or form of pride that sets itself up in opposition to or defiance of the true "knowledge of God." Together, they represent the mental and intellectual strongholds that resist God's revelation and authority.

**How do Christians "cast down" and "bring into captivity" these thoughts?**

Answer: "Casting down" and "bringing into captivity" are active, military terms describing the process of spiritual warfare for the mind. It involves a deliberate and aggressive engagement with one's thought life. Practically, this means:
* **Discernment:** Actively identifying thoughts, beliefs, or ideas that are not aligned with God's Word (e.g., [Philippians 4:8](/philippians/4-8 "Philippians 4:8 - Thinking on What is True")).
* **Demolition:** Through prayer, confession, and reliance on the Holy Spirit, dismantling and rejecting these ungodly thoughts and intellectual strongholds. This is not mere suppression but a forceful rejection of their authority over one's mind.
* **Submission:** Consciously choosing to replace those thoughts with biblical truth, bringing every area of thinking under the lordship of Christ. This is an ongoing process of mental renewal, empowered by God's Word (e.g., [Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Transformation by Renewing the Mind")) and the Holy Spirit.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[2 Corinthians 10:5](/2_corinthians/10-5 "2 Corinthians 10:5 - Christ as the Fulfillment") finds its ultimate fulfillment and power in Jesus Christ. He is not merely the object of our obedience but the very standard and enabler of this radical mental transformation. Christ Himself perfectly embodied a mind fully submitted to the will of God, even to the point of death on the cross (cf. [Philippians 2:5-8](/philippians/2-5-8 "Philippians 2:5-8 - The Humility of Christ")). The "knowledge of God" against which human imaginations exalt themselves is supremely revealed in Christ, who is the "image of the invisible God" (cf. [Colossians 1:15](/colossians/1-15 "Colossians 1:15 - Christ, the Image of God")). It is through His atoning work that we are liberated from the dominion of sin, including the rebellion of our minds, and empowered by His Spirit to live in newness of life. The "obedience of Christ" to which every thought is brought captive is not a burdensome legalism, but a gracious invitation to participate in the freedom and truth found in Him (cf. [John 8:31-32](/john/8-31-32 "John 8:31-32 - The Truth Will Set You Free")). Thus, the battle for the mind is ultimately a surrender to the one who has already conquered, allowing His truth to reshape our entire intellectual and spiritual landscape.

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

Hebrews 4:12

For the word of God [is] quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and [is] a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

Isaiah 55:7

Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.

1 Peter 1:14

As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:

1 Peter 1:15

But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;

Romans 7:23

But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.

Matthew 15:19

For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies:

Romans 1:21

Because that, when they knew God, they glorified [him] not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.