2 Corinthians 4:5

For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.

For {G1063} we preach {G2784} not {G3756} ourselves {G1438}, but {G235} Christ {G5547} Jesus {G2424} the Lord {G2962}; and {G1161} ourselves {G1438} your {G5216} servants {G1401} for {G1223} Jesus {G2424}' sake {G1223}.

For what we are proclaiming is not ourselves, but the Messiah Yeshua as Lord, with ourselves as slaves for you because of Yeshua.

For we do not proclaim ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake.

For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake.

2 Corinthians 4:5 is a foundational verse that encapsulates the core message and humble attitude of apostolic ministry, particularly that of the Apostle Paul and his companions. It stands as a timeless declaration of what true Christian preaching should be about.

Context

This verse is situated within a broader discussion in 2 Corinthians where Paul defends his ministry and addresses criticisms leveled against him and his associates. In the preceding verses of chapter 4, Paul speaks of the clarity and transparency of his gospel message, contrasting it with those who obscure the truth (2 Corinthians 4:2). He emphasizes that if the gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing, whose minds the "god of this world" has blinded (2 Corinthians 4:4). Verse 5 then serves as a direct statement of the content and focus of their preaching, reinforcing their integrity and purpose.

Key Themes

  • The Centrality of Christ: The primary message of Paul's ministry, and indeed all true Christian proclamation, is not about human wisdom, achievements, or personalities, but solely about Christ Jesus the Lord. This emphasizes His supreme authority, deity, and salvific work. The focus is always on who Christ is and what He has done.
  • Humility in Ministry: Paul explicitly states, "For we preach not ourselves." This counters any temptation for ministers to seek personal glory, recognition, or financial gain. It highlights a selfless approach to ministry, where the messenger fades into the background, and Christ is magnified.
  • Servanthood for Jesus' Sake: Paul identifies himself and his co-workers as "your servants for Jesus' sake." This profound statement reveals their posture of humility and dedication. They are not masters, but bondservants, serving the congregation not for their own benefit, but out of obedience and love for Christ. This aligns with the example set by Christ Himself, who came not to be served, but to serve (Matthew 20:28).

Linguistic Insight

The Greek word translated "servants" in "and ourselves your servants" is douloi (δοῦλοι), which literally means "slaves" or "bondservants." This term conveys a profound sense of complete dedication, submission, and ownership. It's not merely a casual helper, but one whose life is entirely devoted to the will of another. In this context, Paul emphasizes that he and his team are wholly devoted to serving the Corinthian believers, motivated by their ultimate allegiance to Jesus.

Practical Application

This verse offers vital principles for all believers, especially those involved in Christian leadership or teaching:

  1. Exalt Christ Alone: Our words, actions, and ministries should consistently point to Jesus. The goal is to make Him known, not ourselves or our accomplishments.
  2. Embrace Humility: Ministry is not a platform for self-promotion but an opportunity for selfless service. True spiritual authority flows from a posture of humility and submission to God.
  3. Serve Others Willingly: Being a servant "for Jesus' sake" means putting the needs of others before our own, motivated by love for Christ and His people. It calls for a willingness to sacrifice time, energy, and resources for the spiritual well-being of the church and the world.
  4. Maintain Authenticity: This verse encourages transparency and sincerity in sharing the Gospel, free from ulterior motives or manipulative tactics.
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 1:24

    Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand.

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:5

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

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:6

    Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor [yet] of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.

  • 1 Corinthians 1:23

    But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;

  • Galatians 5:13

    ¶ For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only [use] not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.

  • 2 Corinthians 5:14

    For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:

  • 2 Corinthians 5:15

    And [that] he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.

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