2 Corinthians 4:1

KJV

¶ Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;

KJV (with Strong's)

Therefore seeing {G1223}{G5124} we have {G2192} this {G5026} ministry {G1248}, as {G2531} we have received mercy {G1653}, we faint {G1573} not {G3756};

Complete Jewish Bible

God has shown us such mercy that we do not lose courage as we do the work he has given us.

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore, since God in His mercy has given us this ministry, we do not lose heart.

American Standard Version

Therefore seeing we have this ministry, even as we obtained mercy, we faint not:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Corinthians 4:1, the Apostle Paul articulates the profound foundation and unwavering resolve of his apostolic ministry. He declares that because he and his co-workers have been entrusted with this glorious new covenant ministry, a sacred trust received not by merit but by divine mercy, they do not lose heart or grow weary in their service. This verse serves as a powerful declaration of perseverance, rooted in God's unmerited favor and the surpassing glory of the Gospel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse acts as a direct continuation and logical conclusion to Paul's extensive argument in [2 Corinthians 3](/2_corinthians/3 "2 Corinthians 3 - The New Covenant Ministry"). In the preceding chapter, Paul masterfully contrasts the Old Covenant ministry, characterized by a fading glory and a veil over understanding, with the New Covenant ministry of the Spirit, which brings righteousness, life, and an ever-increasing glory. The "therefore" (G1223, G5124) of [2 Corinthians 4:1](/2_corinthians/4-1 "2 Corinthians 4:1 - We Have This Ministry") signifies that the unwavering commitment he describes is a direct consequence of the superior nature and divine origin of this new ministry. It sets the stage for Paul's defense of his ministry's integrity and his explanation of the suffering inherent in proclaiming the glorious Gospel, as detailed in [2 Corinthians 4:2-18](/2_corinthians/4-2-18 "2 Corinthians 4:2-18 - Paul's Ministry and Suffering").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul's ministry was marked by immense hardship, opposition, and slander. He faced accusations of being unreliable, manipulative, and not a true apostle. The Corinthian church, in particular, was influenced by false teachers who boasted in their own credentials and criticized Paul's apparent weakness and suffering. Historically, Roman society valued strength, rhetoric, and outward success, making Paul's approach to ministry—which often involved weakness, suffering, and a lack of impressive oratorical skills—a point of contention. His emphasis on "mercy" (G1653) as the basis for his ministry would have stood in stark contrast to the self-promotion common among many religious and philosophical teachers of his day. The concept of "ministry" (G1248, *diakonía*) itself, derived from the word for "servant," was not a position of high social standing in the Greco-Roman world, further highlighting the counter-cultural nature of Paul's apostolic calling.
* **Key Themes:** [2 Corinthians 4:1](/2_corinthians/4-1 "2 Corinthians 4:1 - We Have This Ministry") encapsulates several pivotal themes central to Paul's theology in this epistle. Firstly, the **Divine Origin and Nature of Ministry** is paramount; Paul consistently emphasizes that his apostleship is a gift of God's grace, not a human achievement, as seen in [1 Corinthians 15:10](/1_corinthians/15-10 "1 Corinthians 15:10 - By the Grace of God I Am What I Am"). Secondly, **Perseverance in Suffering** is a dominant theme. Despite the numerous afflictions and persecutions he endured (vividly recounted in [2 Corinthians 11:23-28](/2_corinthians/11-23-28 "2 Corinthians 11:23-28 - Paul's Sufferings")), Paul refuses to "faint" (G1573), highlighting the supernatural endurance granted by God. This unwavering commitment is directly linked to the third theme, the **Glory of the New Covenant**, which Paul extensively detailed in [2 Corinthians 3](/2_corinthians/3 "2 Corinthians 3 - The New Covenant Ministry"). The surpassing glory of the Gospel, which transforms lives and brings freedom, serves as the ultimate motivation for his steadfastness.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **ministry (Greek, _diakonía'_):** From G1248, this term denotes "attendance (as a servant, etc.); figuratively (eleemosynary) aid, (official) service (especially of the Christian teacher, or technically of the diaconate)." In this context, it refers to the sacred, divinely appointed service of proclaiming the Gospel and building up the church, emphasizing its nature as humble, dedicated service rather than a position of power or prestige. It is the core function of an apostle and, by extension, all who serve Christ.
* **received mercy (Greek, _eleéō'_):** From G1653, meaning "to compassionate (by word or deed, specially, by divine grace)." This highlights that Paul's calling and enablement for ministry were not earned but were a result of God's unmerited favor and compassion. It underscores the gratuitous nature of God's grace in commissioning individuals for His service, providing both the opportunity and the strength.
* **faint (Greek, _ekkakéō'_):** From G1573, meaning "to be (bad or) weak, i.e. (by implication) to fail (in heart)." Coupled with the negative "not" (G3756, _ou_), this phrase signifies an absolute refusal to lose heart, grow weary, or give up in the face of adversity. It speaks to a steadfast resilience and unwavering commitment, directly empowered by the mercy previously received.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Therefore seeing we have this ministry":** The opening "Therefore" (G1223, G5124) links directly to the glorious New Covenant ministry described in [2 Corinthians 3](/2_corinthians/3 "2 Corinthians 3 - The New Covenant Ministry"). Paul asserts that he and his fellow apostles possess this extraordinary "ministry" (G1248, _diakonía_), a sacred trust of service characterized by the Spirit and righteousness, far surpassing the Old Covenant. The phrase "seeing we have" (G2192, _échō_) implies a present reality and a firm possession of this divine commission.
* **"as we have received mercy":** This crucial clause clarifies the basis of their possession of this ministry. It is not due to their own merit, ability, or worthiness, but entirely because they "have received mercy" (G1653, _eleéō_) from God. This emphasizes divine grace as the sole enabling factor and the ultimate source of their calling, underscoring humility and gratitude as foundational to true service.
* **"we faint not;":** This powerful declaration (G1573, _ekkakéō_ with G3756, _ou_) is the direct consequence of the preceding clauses. Because their ministry is divinely given and sustained by mercy, Paul and his colleagues refuse to "faint," lose heart, grow weary, or give up, regardless of the immense trials and opposition they face. It speaks to an enduring resolve and spiritual fortitude that is not self-generated but flows from the divine source of their calling.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in [2 Corinthians 4:1](/2_corinthians/4-1 "2 Corinthians 4:1 - We Have This Ministry") to convey his message with clarity and force. The verse begins with a strong **Connective/Transitional Language** in "Therefore," establishing a logical link to the profound theological arguments of [2 Corinthians 3](/2_corinthians/3 "2 Corinthians 3 - The New Covenant Ministry") concerning the superiority of the New Covenant. This "therefore" signals that the perseverance Paul describes is a direct and necessary outcome of the glorious nature of their ministry. There is an implicit **Contrast** drawn between Paul's unwavering commitment and the potential for others (or even himself, without divine mercy) to lose heart in such challenging circumstances. The phrase "we faint not" is a powerful **Assertion** and **Declaration**, emphasizing Paul's resolute determination. Finally, the structure of the verse itself demonstrates **Cause and Effect**: the divine mercy received is the cause, and the resulting steadfastness ("we faint not") is the effect, establishing a clear **Foundation/Grounding** for their endurance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[2 Corinthians 4:1](/2_corinthians/4-1 "2 Corinthians 4:1 - We Have This Ministry") profoundly articulates the theological truth that all genuine Christian ministry is a gift of God's grace, not a human achievement. This divine enablement, rooted in God's unmerited mercy, is the wellspring of perseverance in the face of trials. It challenges any notion of self-sufficiency in service, redirecting focus to God as the sole source of calling, strength, and endurance. The verse thus connects the *nature* of the ministry (New Covenant, Spirit-empowered) with the *disposition* of the minister (unwavering, humble), presenting a holistic view of service that is both divinely initiated and divinely sustained. It sets the stage for understanding how Paul could endure such immense suffering, as detailed later in the chapter and epistle, without losing hope or abandoning his commission.

* [Ephesians 3:7-8](/ephesians/3-7-8 "Ephesians 3:7-8 - Paul's Ministry by Grace")
* [Galatians 6:9](/galatians/6-9 "Galatians 6:9 - Do Not Grow Weary in Doing Good")
* [1 Corinthians 15:10](/1_corinthians/15-10 "1 Corinthians 15:10 - God's Grace in Paul's Labor")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[2 Corinthians 4:1](/2_corinthians/4-1 "2 Corinthians 4:1 - We Have This Ministry") offers profound encouragement and a vital paradigm for every believer engaged in any form of Christian service, whether in formal ministry roles or in the daily living out of their faith. It calls us to recognize that our capacity to serve, to endure, and to make an impact is not primarily dependent on our own strength, talent, or past successes, but entirely on the "mercy" we have received from God. This truth liberates us from the pressure of performance and the fear of inadequacy, shifting our focus from self-reliance to divine reliance. When we face discouragement, opposition, or the sheer weight of our responsibilities, this verse reminds us that the same divine mercy that called us is also the inexhaustible source of our perseverance. It inspires a humble yet resolute spirit, knowing that our "faint not" attitude is a testament to God's faithful provision and unwavering grace, empowering us to press on for the sake of the glorious Gospel.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of your life or service do you feel most prone to "faint" or lose heart, and how might focusing on God's mercy strengthen you?**
* **How does understanding that your "ministry" (your service, your calling) is received by mercy change your perspective on its value and your responsibilities?**
* **What practical steps can you take to consistently remind yourself of God's mercy as the foundation for your perseverance?**

### FAQ
**What does Paul mean by "this ministry" in 2 Corinthians 4:1?**

Answer: By "this ministry," Paul is referring to the New Covenant ministry, which he has just extensively described and contrasted with the Old Covenant in [2 Corinthians 3](/2_corinthians/3 "2 Corinthians 3 - The New Covenant Ministry"). This ministry is characterized by the Spirit, brings righteousness and life, and operates with unveiled glory, unlike the ministry of condemnation under the Law. It is the ministry of reconciliation, proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and it is a divine commission entrusted to Paul and his fellow apostles. It is a service (G1248, _diakonía_) that is not self-appointed but divinely given.

**Why does Paul emphasize "as we have received mercy" as the basis for his ministry?**

Answer: Paul emphasizes "as we have received mercy" (G1653, _eleéō_) to highlight that his apostleship and capacity for ministry are not due to his own merit, worthiness, or effort, but solely to God's unmerited favor and compassion. This underscores the gratuitous nature of God's grace in calling and equipping individuals for His service. It prevents boasting in human strength or achievement and firmly places the foundation of ministry in God's sovereign choice and loving kindness. This theme is consistent throughout Paul's letters, such as in [1 Corinthians 15:10](/1_corinthians/15-10 "1 Corinthians 15:10 - By the Grace of God I Am What I Am"), where he states, "But by the grace of God I am what I am."

**What does "we faint not" signify in the context of Paul's ministry?**

Answer: "We faint not" (G1573, _ekkakéō_ with G3756, _ou_) is a powerful declaration of unwavering perseverance and resilience. It means Paul and his co-workers do not lose heart, grow weary, or give up in the face of the immense suffering, opposition, and challenges inherent in their apostolic ministry. This steadfastness is not a result of their own natural strength but is directly enabled by the divine mercy they have received. It signifies a profound trust in God's sustaining power, even when facing extreme hardship, as further detailed in [2 Corinthians 4:8-12](/2_corinthians/4-8-12 "2 Corinthians 4:8-12 - Afflicted but Not Crushed").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[2 Corinthians 4:1](/2_corinthians/4-1 "2 Corinthians 4:1 - We Have This Ministry") finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "ministry" Paul speaks of is inherently Christ-centered, for it is the ministry of reconciliation (cf. [2 Corinthians 5:18](/2_corinthians/5-18 "2 Corinthians 5:18 - Ministry of Reconciliation")), bringing people into a right relationship with God through Christ. Jesus himself is the ultimate "minister" (G1248, _diakonía_), who came not to be served but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many (cf. [Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). Furthermore, the "mercy" Paul received is the very mercy extended to humanity through Christ's atoning sacrifice on the cross (cf. [Titus 3:5](/titus/3-5 "Titus 3:5 - Saved by God's Mercy")). It is through Christ that believers are recipients of divine grace, enabling them for service. Finally, Paul's declaration, "we faint not," echoes the perfect endurance of Christ, who "for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame" (cf. [Hebrews 12:2-3](/hebrews/12-2-3 "Hebrews 12:2-3 - Looking to Jesus, the Pioneer and Perfecter of Faith")). Thus, the believer's ability to persevere in ministry, empowered by mercy, is a participation in Christ's own enduring faithfulness and a testament to the life-giving power of His Spirit (cf. [John 14:26](/john/14-26 "John 14:26 - The Holy Spirit as Helper")).

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 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.