2 Corinthians 2:17

KJV

For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} we are {G2070} not {G3756} as {G5613} many {G4183}, which corrupt {G2585} the word {G3056} of God {G2316}: but {G235} as {G5613} of {G1537} sincerity {G1505}, but {G235} as {G5613} of {G1537} God {G2316}, in the sight {G2714} of God {G2316} speak we {G2980} in {G1722} Christ {G5547}.

Complete Jewish Bible

For we are not like a lot of folks who go about huckstering God’s message for a fee; on the contrary, we speak out of a sincere heart, as people sent by God, standing in God’s presence, living in union with the Messiah.

Berean Standard Bible

For we are not like so many others, who peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as men sent from God.

American Standard Version

For we are not as the many, corrupting the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God, speak we in Christ.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Corinthians 2:17, the Apostle Paul profoundly differentiates his apostolic ministry from that of others, asserting that he and his fellow workers do not distort or exploit the word of God for personal gain, as many do. Instead, they proclaim the divine message with absolute sincerity, as those commissioned by God, constantly aware of His omnipresent scrutiny, and always speaking from a genuine union with Christ Himself. This verse stands as a powerful declaration of integrity, divine authority, and purity of motive in the proclamation of the Gospel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse concludes a significant section (2 Corinthians 2:14-17) where Paul describes the nature and impact of his ministry. He begins by portraying believers as participants in Christ's triumphal procession, spreading the "fragrance of the knowledge of Him" everywhere (2 Corinthians 2:14). He then explains that this ministry is a "fragrance of Christ" to God, whether it leads to life for some or death for others, highlighting the profound responsibility involved (2 Corinthians 2:15-16). The weight of this responsibility leads directly into 2 Corinthians 2:17, where Paul asserts his integrity, contrasting his authentic approach with those who handle God's word deceitfully. This verse serves as a crucial bridge to the subsequent chapters where Paul continues to defend his apostolic authority and the legitimacy of his ministry against detractors in Corinth.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Corinthian church was a vibrant but problematic community, influenced by various philosophical and rhetorical trends of the Hellenistic world. Paul faced opposition from false apostles or itinerant teachers who sought to undermine his authority and introduce alternative gospels or methods. These individuals often operated like sophists or traveling merchants, charging fees for their teachings and manipulating their messages for popularity or financial profit. The term "corrupt" (καπηλεύω, _kapēleúō_) used by Paul in this verse directly alludes to the practice of "hucksters" or "peddlers" who would dilute or adulterate goods (like wine) to increase their profit. This cultural practice provides a vivid backdrop for Paul's accusation against those who treated God's sacred word as a commodity to be exploited. Paul's emphasis on "sincerity" and speaking "in the sight of God" was a direct counter-cultural statement against such mercenary and deceptive practices common in the ancient world.
* **Key Themes:** 2 Corinthians 2:17 encapsulates several overarching themes prevalent throughout the letter and Paul's theology. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Authentic vs. Corrupt Ministry**, drawing a sharp distinction between Paul's Spirit-led, Christ-centered proclamation and the self-serving, diluted messages of his opponents. This theme is further explored as Paul defends his apostolic calling and the integrity of his message in chapters like [2 Corinthians 4:1-6](/2_corinthians/4-1-6 "2 Corinthians 4:1-6 - Paul's Integrity in Ministry"). Secondly, the verse highlights **Divine Authority and Accountability**, as Paul insists that his message originates "of God" and is delivered "in the sight of God," emphasizing that true ministry is not merely human eloquence but a divine commission under divine scrutiny. This aligns with Paul's broader understanding of his apostleship as a direct call from Christ, as seen in [Galatians 1:11-12](/galatians/1-11-12 "Galatians 1:11-12 - Paul's Gospel Not from Man"). Finally, the phrase "speak we in Christ" emphasizes the theme of **Christ-Centeredness in Ministry**, asserting that the very essence, content, and power of Paul's proclamation are inextricably rooted in his union with Jesus Christ, a foundational concept for Paul's theology found throughout his epistles, such as [Ephesians 4:15-16](/ephesians/4-15-16 "Ephesians 4:15-16 - Growing Up in Christ").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **corrupt (Greek, _kapēleúō'_):** From G2585, meaning "to retail, i.e. (by implication) to adulterate (figuratively)." This term literally refers to a "huckster" or "peddler" who dilutes or adulterates goods for dishonest gain. When applied to the "word of God," it implies a mercenary manipulation or cheapening of the divine message for personal profit, popularity, or self-advancement, rather than faithfully preserving and proclaiming its truth. It suggests a deliberate distortion driven by impure motives, akin to diluting wine with water to sell more.
* **sincerity (Greek, _eilikríneia'_):** From G1505, meaning "clearness, i.e. (by implication) purity (figuratively)." This word conveys the idea of being unmixed, pure, or transparent. It is sometimes associated with being "judged by sunlight," implying that something is so clear and unadulterated that even when held up to the light, no hidden flaws or impurities are revealed. In the context of Paul's ministry, it signifies unblemished motives, genuine intent, and a pure, unadulterated proclamation of the Gospel, free from ulterior motives or hidden agendas.
* **in the sight (Greek, _katenṓpion'_):** From G2714, meaning "directly in front of." This preposition emphasizes a direct, immediate presence or confrontation. When Paul states he speaks "in the sight of God," it conveys a profound sense of divine awareness and accountability. It means his ministry is conducted under the direct, unblinking gaze of God, implying that every word spoken and every motive held is open and transparent before the Almighty, leaving no room for deception or hidden agendas.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God":** Paul begins by drawing a stark contrast between his ministry and that of others. The "many" refers to false teachers or opponents who were distorting or exploiting the divine message. The verb "corrupt" (Greek, _kapēleúō_) vividly portrays these individuals as spiritual hucksters, diluting or adulterating the sacred word for their own gain, much like unscrupulous merchants would dilute their products. Paul emphatically denies any association with such mercenary practices, asserting the purity and integrity of his own proclamation.
* **"but as of sincerity":** This clause introduces the first positive characteristic of Paul's ministry, directly contrasting with the corruption he just condemned. "As of sincerity" (Greek, _eilikríneia_) emphasizes the unmixed, pure, and transparent nature of his motives and message. It signifies that his ministry is free from hidden agendas, selfish ambitions, or any form of deceit. His aim is solely to faithfully convey God's truth, untainted by human manipulation.
* **"but as of God":** This phrase highlights the divine origin and authority of Paul's message. It means that his words are not merely human wisdom or opinion, but they proceed "from God" (Greek, _ek Theou_). This underscores that Paul is not speaking on his own authority but as an appointed messenger, whose message is divinely inspired and authorized. This is a claim to divine commission and endorsement for his ministry.
* **"in the sight of God":** Building on the previous clause, this emphasizes the profound accountability and awareness under which Paul operates. His ministry is conducted not only "of God" but also "before God" (Greek, _katenōpion Theou_). This signifies a constant consciousness of God's omnipresent gaze and judgment. Every word spoken, every motive held, is transparent before the divine presence, ensuring integrity and faithfulness in the delivery of the message.
* **"speak we in Christ.":** This culminating phrase encapsulates the very essence of Paul's ministry. "In Christ" (Greek, _en Christō_) signifies that his speaking is rooted in his union with Christ, empowered by Christ, and centered on Christ. It means that Christ is the source, content, and sphere of his proclamation. His message is not merely about Christ, but it flows from a living, dynamic relationship with Him, ensuring its authenticity, power, and divine resonance. It is Christ who enables, directs, and validates his every word.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several potent literary devices in 2 Corinthians 2:17 to convey his message with force and clarity. **Contrast** is the most prominent, as he sharply juxtaposes "we" (his authentic ministry) with "many" (those who corrupt God's word). This creates a clear dichotomy, highlighting the moral and spiritual chasm between the two approaches. The use of **Metaphor** is striking in the word "corrupt" (καπηλεύω, _kapēleúō_), which draws on the vivid image of a dishonest merchant adulterating goods. This metaphor powerfully communicates the insidious nature of distorting sacred truth for personal gain, likening it to a cheapening of something precious. Furthermore, Paul uses **Parallelism** and **Repetition** with the phrases "but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ." The repeated "but as of" (ἀλλ’ ὡς) creates a rhythmic emphasis on the positive, authentic qualities of his ministry, reinforcing the sincerity, divine origin, and accountability that define his proclamation. The cumulative effect of these devices is a powerful declaration of Paul's integrity and the divine authority behind his message.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's declaration in 2 Corinthians 2:17 is a foundational statement on the nature of authentic Christian ministry and the sacredness of God's Word. It underscores the profound responsibility of those who handle divine truth, emphasizing that the message must be delivered with purity of motive, divine authorization, and a constant awareness of God's presence. This verse speaks to the integrity required in all forms of Christian communication, whether from the pulpit, in teaching, or in personal witness. It warns against the temptation to dilute, distort, or exploit the Gospel for personal gain, popularity, or any agenda other than God's glory. The emphasis on speaking "in Christ" highlights that true ministry is not merely about conveying information, but about being an instrument through whom Christ Himself speaks and acts, ensuring that the message is both powerful and faithful to its divine source.
* [1 Peter 4:11](/1_peter/4-11 "1 Peter 4:11 - Speaking the Oracles of God")
* [Jeremiah 23:28](/jeremiah/23-28 "Jeremiah 23:28 - The Prophet with a Dream")
* [Matthew 7:15-20](/matthew/7-15-20 "Matthew 7:15-20 - False Prophets")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
2 Corinthians 2:17 serves as a timeless mirror for both those who proclaim God's Word and those who hear it. For ministers, teachers, and communicators of the Gospel, it is a profound call to self-examination: Are our motives pure? Do we speak "as of sincerity," free from hidden agendas or desires for personal gain? Are we truly speaking "as of God," faithfully conveying His truth, or are we subtly bending it to fit cultural trends, personal preferences, or the expectations of our audience? Do we live and speak "in the sight of God," constantly aware that our every word and action is transparent before Him? This verse demands integrity, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the unadulterated truth of the Gospel. For all believers, it is a vital reminder to exercise discernment. In a world saturated with information and diverse spiritual claims, we are called to be like the Bereans, who "searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so" ([Acts 17:11](/acts/17-11 "Acts 17:11 - The Noble Bereans")). We must critically evaluate messages and messengers, not by their charisma or popularity, but by their faithfulness to God's Word and the purity of their motives, always testing what we hear against the unchanging standard of biblical truth. Our lives, too, should reflect this sincerity, living authentically "in Christ" in every sphere.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I, or those I listen to, be tempted to "corrupt the word of God" for personal gain, popularity, or convenience?**
* **How can I cultivate a deeper sense of "sincerity" and purity of motive in my spiritual walk and in my interactions with others?**
* **What does it mean practically to live and speak "in the sight of God," and how might this awareness impact my daily decisions and conversations?**
* **How can I grow in my ability to discern between authentic, Christ-centered ministry and that which may be subtly corrupted?**

### FAQ
**What does Paul mean by "corrupt the word of God"?**

Answer: When Paul says "corrupt the word of God," he uses the Greek word _kapēleúō_ (G2585), which literally means to be a "retailer" or "huckster." It carries the strong connotation of diluting or adulterating goods for dishonest profit, much like a merchant might water down wine. Figuratively, Paul is accusing his opponents of treating God's sacred message like a common commodity, manipulating or cheapening it for their own selfish ends, whether for financial gain, personal influence, or popularity, rather than faithfully proclaiming its pure truth. This is a severe indictment against those who would compromise the integrity of the Gospel.

**How does Paul's statement "as of sincerity" relate to his overall ministry?**

Answer: The phrase "as of sincerity" (Greek, _eilikríneia_, G1505) is central to Paul's defense of his ministry throughout 2 Corinthians. It emphasizes the purity of his motives and the transparency of his actions. Unlike those who sought personal gain or glory, Paul consistently asserted that his ministry was driven by a genuine desire to serve God and His people, without ulterior motives or hidden agendas. This sincerity was a hallmark of his apostleship, ensuring that the message he preached was unadulterated and true, reflecting his commitment to God's glory above all else, as also seen in [2 Corinthians 1:12](/2_corinthians/1-12 "2 Corinthians 1:12 - Paul's Conscience").

**What is the significance of "speak we in Christ"?**

Answer: The phrase "speak we in Christ" (Greek, _en Christō_, G1722, G5547) is profoundly significant, encapsulating the very essence of Paul's theology and ministry. It means that Paul's words are not merely about Christ, but they are spoken from a deep, organic union with Him. Christ is the source, the content, the power, and the sphere of his proclamation. His ministry is not merely human effort or wisdom, but it is empowered by the indwelling Christ, ensuring that the message is authentic, divinely authorized, and carries the very authority of Jesus Himself. This highlights that true Christian communication flows from a transformative relationship with the living Lord, as Paul often expressed his identity as being "in Christ" ([Galatians 2:20](/galatians/2-20 "Galatians 2:20 - Crucified with Christ")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
2 Corinthians 2:17, while a statement about Paul's ministry, points profoundly to Christ as the ultimate embodiment of truth, sincerity, and divine communication. Jesus Himself is the "Word of God" made flesh ([John 1:1](/john/1-1 "John 1:1 - The Word Was God") and [John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word Became Flesh")), who never corrupted or diluted the divine message. He spoke "as of God" because He *was* God, perfectly revealing the Father ([John 1:18](/john/1-18 "John 1:18 - No One Has Seen God")). His ministry was characterized by absolute "sincerity," free from any self-serving motives, always doing the will of the Father who sent Him ([John 6:38](/john/6-38 "John 6:38 - Doing the Father's Will")). Every word He uttered was spoken "in the sight of God," because He was continually in perfect communion with the Father, and His life was a flawless demonstration of divine truth and purity ([John 8:29](/john/8-29 "John 8:29 - The Father is with Me")). Paul's ability to speak "in Christ" means that his ministry, and indeed all authentic Christian ministry, derives its power, authority, and integrity from the perfect, uncorrupted, and divinely authorized ministry of Jesus Christ. We, as believers, are called to participate in Christ's ongoing mission, speaking His truth with the same sincerity and divine dependence, knowing that it is only "in Him" that our words carry eternal weight and truly reflect the unblemished glory of God ([Colossians 1:15](/colossians/1-15 "Colossians 1:15 - Christ, the Image of God")).

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

2 Corinthians 4:2

But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.

2 Corinthians 1:12

¶ For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.

2 Peter 2:1

¶ But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.

2 Peter 2:3

¶ And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.

1 Timothy 4:1

¶ Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;

1 Timothy 4:3

Forbidding to marry, [and commanding] to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.

2 Timothy 4:3

For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;