¶ Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;
Therefore seeing {G1223}{G5124} we have {G2192} this {G5026} ministry {G1248}, as {G2531} we have received mercy {G1653}, we faint {G1573} not {G3756};
God has shown us such mercy that we do not lose courage as we do the work he has given us.
Therefore, since God in His mercy has given us this ministry, we do not lose heart.
Therefore seeing we have this ministry, even as we obtained mercy, we faint not:
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2 Thessalonians 3:13
But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing. -
Galatians 6:9
And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. -
Ephesians 3:13
Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory. -
2 Corinthians 4:16
For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward [man] is renewed day by day. -
Philippians 4:13
I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. -
Revelation 2:3
And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. -
Ephesians 3:7
Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.
2 Corinthians 4:1 KJV Commentary: Unwavering Ministry Through Divine Mercy
The Apostle Paul opens 2 Corinthians chapter 4 with a powerful statement of purpose and perseverance, drawing a direct connection to the glorious ministry he has just described in chapter 3. This verse sets the tone for the rest of the chapter, where Paul defends the integrity of his apostolic ministry despite intense suffering and opposition.
Context
This verse directly follows Paul's profound discussion in 2 Corinthians chapter 3, where he contrasts the fading glory of the Old Covenant, particularly the ministry of Moses, with the surpassing and enduring glory of the New Covenant ministry of the Spirit. The "therefore" in verse 1 indicates a conclusion drawn from the preceding arguments: because they possess such a glorious and life-giving ministry, which is not based on human ability but divine enablement, they are resolute in their service. This ministry, unlike the veiled understanding of the Old Covenant, is characterized by transparency and openness (as further explained in 2 Corinthians 4:2).
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The phrase "we faint not" translates the Greek ouk ekkakoumen (οὐκ ἐκκακοῦμεν), which literally means "we do not lose heart," "we do not grow weary," or "we do not give up." It conveys a strong sense of steadfastness and resilience in the face of adversity. This same concept of not growing weary in doing good is echoed elsewhere in Paul's writings, such as in Galatians 6:9. The term "ministry" comes from diakonia (διακονία), emphasizing service, a concept central to Christian life and leadership.
Practical Application
For believers today, 2 Corinthians 4:1 offers profound encouragement and guidance for any form of Christian service or living out one's faith:
In essence, 2 Corinthians 4:1 inspires Christians to press on in their God-given purpose, knowing that the source of their calling—divine mercy—is also the wellspring of their enduring strength.