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.

But {G235} have renounced {G550} the hidden things {G2927} of dishonesty {G152}, not {G3361} walking {G4043} in {G1722} craftiness {G3834}, nor {G3366} handling {G1389} the word {G3056} of God {G2316} deceitfully {G1389}; but {G235} by manifestation {G5321} of the truth {G225} commending {G4921} ourselves {G1438} to {G4314} every {G3956} man's {G444} conscience {G4893} in the sight {G1799} of God {G2316}.

Indeed, we refuse to make use of shameful underhanded methods, employing deception or distorting God’s message. On the contrary, by making very clear what the truth is, we commend ourselves to everyone’s conscience in the sight of God.

Instead, we have renounced secret and shameful ways. We do not practice deceit, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by open proclamation of the truth, we commend ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.

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

Context

In 2 Corinthians chapter 4, the Apostle Paul continues to defend the integrity and nature of his ministry, especially against critics in Corinth who may have accused him of hidden motives or manipulative tactics. Having previously affirmed that he did not lose heart in his calling (2 Corinthians 4:1), Paul now explicitly details the ethical standard by which he and his fellow ministers operated, contrasting it sharply with any deceptive practices.

Key Themes

  • Transparency and Integrity: Paul emphasizes a complete rejection of any hidden or shameful practices. His ministry was characterized by openness and honesty, not secret agendas or manipulative schemes.
  • Authentic Handling of God's Word: A core message is the pure and unadulterated presentation of the gospel. Paul insists they did not "handle the word of God deceitfully," a direct contrast to those who might distort or corrupt the divine message for personal gain or popularity. This echoes Paul's earlier statement in 2 Corinthians 2:17.
  • Appeal to Conscience: The goal of their transparent ministry was to commend themselves to "every man's conscience." This suggests that the truth, when plainly presented, resonates with an innate moral sense within humanity, leading to a recognition of the messenger's sincerity.
  • Divine Accountability: Ultimately, Paul's actions were not merely for human approval but were performed "in the sight of God." This underscores a profound sense of divine accountability, knowing that God sees all and judges motives.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "hidden things of dishonesty" translates the Greek ta krupta tēs aischynēs (τὰ κρυπτὰ τῆς αἰσχύνης), which literally means "the hidden things of shame" or "disgrace." This refers to actions or motives that one would be ashamed to reveal. Paul insists on renouncing such practices.

The term "craftiness" comes from the Greek panourgia (πανουργίᾳ), implying cunning, trickery, or unscrupulous methods. Paul rejects any ministry built on such foundations.

The phrase "handling the word of God deceitfully" uses the Greek verb dolountes (δολουντες), which means to adulterate, falsify, or corrupt, often by mixing something impure or deceptive with the genuine article. This highlights Paul's commitment to presenting the pure and unmixed truth of the gospel, without adding or subtracting for human appeal or personal benefit. This contrasts sharply with Jesus' own declaration of being the Truth.

Practical Application

This verse offers a powerful standard for all believers, not just those in vocational ministry. It calls us to:

  • Live Authentically: To reject pretense, secret sins, or hidden motives in our interactions and spiritual walk.
  • Speak Truthfully: To handle God's word (and all truth) with integrity, avoiding distortion, manipulation, or selective presentation for personal gain. Our message should be clear, consistent, and faithful to its source.
  • Be Accountable: To remember that our lives are lived "in the sight of God." This awareness fosters a deep sense of responsibility and encourages us to live with a clear conscience, knowing that God sees our hearts and motives.
  • Build Trust: By demonstrating transparency and integrity, we build credibility and allow the truth of Christ to commend itself to others' consciences, opening doors for genuine spiritual influence.
Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 2 Corinthians 2:17

    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.

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:3

    For our exhortation [was] not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile:

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:5

    For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God [is] witness:

  • 2 Corinthians 5:11

    Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.

  • 2 Corinthians 11:13

    For such [are] false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.

  • 2 Corinthians 11:15

    Therefore [it is] no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.

  • 2 Corinthians 6:4

    But in all [things] approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,

Add TrulyRandomVerse to your Home Screen for quick access!

← Back