2 Corinthians 5:11

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

Knowing {G1492} therefore {G3767} the terror {G5401} of the Lord {G2962}, we persuade {G3982} men {G444}; but {G1161} we are made manifest {G5319} unto God {G2316}; and {G1161} I trust {G1679} also {G2532} are made manifest {G5319} in {G1722} your {G5216} consciences {G4893}.

Complete Jewish Bible

So it is with the fear of the Lord before us that we try to persuade people. Moreover, God knows us as we really are; and I hope that in your consciences you too know us as we really are.

Berean Standard Bible

Therefore, since we know what it means to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men. What we are is clear to God, and I hope it is clear to your conscience as well.

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
The Apostle Paul articulates the profound spiritual motivations driving his apostolic ministry, rooted in a reverent understanding of God's ultimate judgment. This awareness compels him to earnestly persuade others toward reconciliation with God, while simultaneously affirming that his true character and motives are fully transparent and approved by God, a transparency he trusts is also evident and affirmed within the consciences of the Corinthian believers.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as a pivotal transition within Paul's defense of his apostolic ministry, directly following his declaration in [2 Corinthians 5:10](/2_corinthians/5-10 "2 Corinthians 5:10 - The Judgment Seat of Christ") that "we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad." The "therefore" (G3767, _oûn_) at the beginning of [2 Corinthians 5:11](/2_corinthians/5-11 "2 Corinthians 5:11 - Paul's Motivation") explicitly links Paul's actions and motivations to this inescapable future reality of divine accountability. The broader context of [2 Corinthians 5](/2_corinthians/5 "2 Corinthians 5 - New Creation and Reconciliation") emphasizes the believer's future hope (a new spiritual body), the certainty of Christ's judgment, and the ministry of reconciliation that flows from these truths. Paul is defending his integrity and the sincerity of his ministry against critics in Corinth, asserting that his life and message are consistent with the profound truths he preaches.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, a bustling, cosmopolitan city known for its diverse religious practices, philosophical schools, and moral laxity. The Corinthian church itself was plagued by divisions, pride, and challenges to Paul's apostolic authority. False apostles or influential individuals had infiltrated the church, questioning Paul's sincerity, rhetorical skill, and even his personal character. In this epistle, Paul is not only defending himself but also seeking to restore the Corinthians' trust, correct their misconceptions, and guide them back to sound doctrine and practice. His emphasis on transparency ("made manifest") and appealing to their consciences reflects the need to re-establish credibility in a community where his reputation had been undermined. The concept of "terror of the Lord" would have resonated with both Jewish and Gentile converts, who understood divine judgment from their respective backgrounds, though Paul redefines it through the lens of Christ's redemptive work.

* **Key Themes:** [2 Corinthians 5:11](/2_corinthians/5-11 "2 Corinthians 5:11 - Paul's Motivation") contributes significantly to several overarching themes in [2 Corinthians](/2_corinthians/1 "2 Corinthians - Paul's Defense and Ministry"). Firstly, it underscores the theme of **divine accountability and judgment**, building on the preceding verse to highlight the seriousness of eternity and the necessity of living in light of God's ultimate scrutiny. Secondly, it powerfully illustrates **Paul's motivation for ministry and evangelism**, revealing that his fervent desire to "persuade men" is not for personal gain but springs from a deep reverence for God and a compassionate concern for humanity's eternal destiny (compare [Romans 9:1-3](/romans/9-1-3 "Romans 9:1-3 - Paul's Anguish for Israel")). Thirdly, the verse reinforces the theme of **apostolic integrity and transparency**, as Paul asserts that his true character and motives are "made manifest unto God" and, by extension, should be evident to the Corinthians. This theme of genuine spiritual service contrasts sharply with the deceptive practices of those who challenged him, reinforcing his call for the Corinthians to examine themselves as well, as seen in [2 Corinthians 13:5](/2_corinthians/13-5 "2 Corinthians 13:5 - Examine Yourselves").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **terror (Greek, _phóbos'_):** According to the Strong's data, this term primarily signifies "alarm or fright." While in a theological context it often expands to include reverential awe, its foundational meaning here emphasizes the profound seriousness and solemnity of God's judgment. It is not a servile fear of punishment for the redeemed, but a deep, motivating respect for God's holiness and the certainty of His righteous assessment, which carries weighty eternal consequences for the unrepentant. This "terror" acknowledges God's absolute power and authority as the ultimate Judge.
* **persuade (Greek, _peíthō'_):** This verb means "to convince (by argument, true or false); by analogy, to pacify or conciliate (by other fair means); reflexively or passively, to assent (to evidence or authority), to rely (by inward certainty)." In Paul's context, it denotes his earnest effort to win over individuals to the truth of the Gospel. It implies a rational and spiritual appeal, presenting compelling arguments and truths that lead to conviction and a change of mind, ultimately resulting in faith and obedience to Christ.
* **consciences (Greek, _syneídēsis'_):** Defined as "co-perception, i.e. moral consciousness," this word refers to the inner moral faculty or awareness within a person that discerns right from wrong. Paul appeals to the Corinthians' internal sense of moral judgment, trusting that their own spiritual perception, guided by the Holy Spirit, would affirm the integrity and truthfulness of his ministry, even amidst external accusations. It suggests an inward witness that validates his sincerity.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord,"**: This opening clause establishes the foundational motivation for Paul's actions. His knowledge (G1492, _eídō_, implying a settled, experiential understanding) of "the terror of the Lord" is not a mere intellectual assent but a profound, awe-filled recognition of God's holiness, justice, and the certainty of His future judgment. This "terror" (G5401, _phóbos_) is a reverential dread of offending God and a solemn awareness of the eternal consequences for those who stand unredeemed before Him. It is the driving force behind his subsequent actions.
* **"we persuade men;"**: Directly flowing from the "terror of the Lord," Paul and his fellow ministers are compelled to "persuade" (G3982, _peíthō_) others. This persuasion is the earnest, Spirit-empowered proclamation of the Gospel, aimed at convincing individuals of their need for salvation and the truth of Christ's redemptive work. It highlights the urgency and passion of their evangelistic efforts, driven by a deep concern for humanity's eternal destiny in light of God's impending judgment.
* **"but we are made manifest unto God;"**: This clause shifts focus from Paul's outward ministry to his inward state and divine validation. The conjunction "but" (G1161, _dé_) introduces a contrast or further clarification. Paul asserts that his true character, motives, and the sincerity of his ministry are fully "made manifest" (G5319, _phaneróō_, meaning made visible or clear) to God (G2316, _theós_). This signifies that his life is an open book before the Almighty, and his integrity is fully known and approved by the One who sees all things.
* **"and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences."**: Paul extends this concept of manifestation to the Corinthians. The phrase "I trust" (G1679, _elpízō_, implying confident expectation) reveals his hope that his transparency before God is also recognized and affirmed by the Corinthians' "consciences" (G4893, _syneídēsis_). Despite the criticisms he faced, Paul believed that their inner moral compass, illuminated by the Spirit, would bear witness to his genuine commitment to Christ and to them, confirming the purity of his intentions and the authenticity of his ministry.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several powerful literary devices in [2 Corinthians 5:11](/2_corinthians/5-11 "2 Corinthians 5:11 - Paul's Motivation"). The most prominent is **Antithesis**, contrasting the "persuading of men" with being "made manifest unto God," and then extending this manifestation to the "consciences" of the Corinthians. This creates a powerful dynamic between external action and internal integrity, and between divine approval and human recognition. Paul also uses **Pathos** in the phrase "terror of the Lord," appealing to a deep sense of awe and solemnity regarding God's judgment, which serves as a powerful emotional and spiritual motivator for his ministry. Furthermore, there is an element of **Ethos** as Paul seeks to establish his credibility and moral character before the Corinthians, asserting his transparency before God as the ultimate validation of his authenticity. The phrase "in your consciences" can be seen as a form of **Synecdoche**, where "consciences" represents the inner moral and spiritual discernment of the entire Corinthian community.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
The profound truth of God's ultimate accountability and judgment serves as a foundational theological principle throughout Scripture, motivating believers to live righteously and to proclaim the Gospel with urgency. Paul's "terror of the Lord" is not a paralyzing fear but a reverential awe that compels action, demonstrating that a proper understanding of divine justice and holiness is essential for zealous and sincere ministry. This understanding of God's inescapable gaze also undergirds the call for Christian integrity and transparency, reminding believers that their lives are lived before an omniscient God, whose approval is paramount. The desire for one's integrity to be "made manifest" in the consciences of others speaks to the importance of living a life that genuinely reflects the truth of the Gospel, building trust and credibility for the message proclaimed.

* [Romans 14:10](/romans/14-10 "Romans 14:10 - The Judgment Seat of Christ")
* [Hebrews 4:13](/hebrews/4-13 "Hebrews 4:13 - All Things Open Before God")
* [1 Corinthians 4:5](/1_corinthians/4-5 "1 Corinthians 4:5 - God Judges Motives")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[2 Corinthians 5:11](/2_corinthians/5-11 "2 Corinthians 5:11 - Paul's Motivation") offers a profound challenge and encouragement for believers today. Our understanding of God's holiness, justice, and the certainty of His future judgment should ignite within us a similar "terror of the Lord"—a reverential awe that compels us to live with intentionality and urgency. This awareness should fuel our passion for sharing the Gospel, not out of mere obligation, but out of a deep love for God and a compassionate concern for those who are perishing. Furthermore, Paul's assertion of being "made manifest unto God" calls us to a life of radical transparency and integrity. Our motives, thoughts, and actions are fully known to God, and this truth should purify our intentions, ensuring that our service is not for human applause but for divine approval. When we live with such integrity, our lives become a powerful testimony, capable of speaking to the consciences of those around us, affirming the truth of the Christ we proclaim.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does my understanding of God's holiness and judgment impact my daily life and my motivation for sharing my faith?**
* **In what areas of my life do I need to cultivate greater transparency and integrity, knowing that I am "made manifest unto God"?**
* **How can I live in such a way that my Christian witness is evident and affirmed in the consciences of those who observe my life?**

### FAQ
**What does "the terror of the Lord" mean in this context?**

Answer: In [2 Corinthians 5:11](/2_corinthians/5-11 "2 Corinthians 5:11 - Paul's Motivation"), "the terror of the Lord" (Greek: _phóbos Kyriou_) does not primarily refer to a paralyzing fear of punishment for believers, but rather a profound, reverential awe and respect for God's absolute holiness, justice, and the certainty of His ultimate judgment. It is an understanding that God is the supreme Judge before whom all must appear ([2 Corinthians 5:10](/2_corinthians/5-10 "2 Corinthians 5:10 - The Judgment Seat of Christ")), and this solemn reality motivates Paul's earnest efforts to persuade others to reconcile with Him. For the unrepentant, it certainly implies the dread of eternal consequences, but for Paul, it is a driving force for faithful ministry.

**Why does Paul say "we persuade men"?**

Answer: Paul states "we persuade men" because his profound understanding of God's impending judgment (the "terror of the Lord") compels him to earnestly appeal to others to embrace the Gospel message. This persuasion (Greek: _peíthō_) involves convincing people of the truth about their sin, God's provision in Christ, and the urgent need for reconciliation. It highlights the evangelistic imperative of the Christian faith, driven by a deep concern for humanity's eternal destiny. Paul's aim was to lead people to faith in Christ, thereby saving them from the just judgment of God, as articulated in passages like [Romans 10:9-10](/romans/10-9-10 "Romans 10:9-10 - Confession and Belief").

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[2 Corinthians 5:11](/2_corinthians/5-11 "2 Corinthians 5:11 - Paul's Motivation") finds its ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus, who perfectly embodied both the "terror of the Lord" and the ultimate manifestation of divine truth. Jesus, in His earthly ministry, consistently spoke with authority about the reality of God's judgment and the eternal consequences of rejecting Him ([Matthew 10:28](/matthew/10-28 "Matthew 10:28 - Fear God, Not Man"); [John 3:18](/john/3-18 "John 3:18 - Condemnation for Unbelief")). His entire mission was to "persuade men" to repent and believe the good news of the kingdom, offering Himself as the sole means of escape from that judgment ([Mark 1:15](/mark/1-15 "Mark 1:15 - Repent and Believe")). More profoundly, Jesus was perfectly "made manifest unto God" in His sinless life, obedient death, and glorious resurrection, demonstrating complete integrity and fulfilling all righteousness ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus, Our High Priest"); [1 Peter 2:22](/1_peter/2-22 "1 Peter 2:22 - Christ's Sinless Life")). Through His Spirit, Christ continues to manifest truth in the "consciences" of humanity, convicting the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment ([John 16:8](/john/16-8 "John 16:8 - The Spirit Convicts the World")), drawing them to the One who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life ([John 14:6](/john/14-6 "John 14:6 - Jesus, the Way, the Truth, the Life")). Thus, Paul's motivation and integrity reflect the very heart of Christ's mission and His perfect relationship with the Father.

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

Jude 1:23

And others save with fear, pulling [them] out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.

Hebrews 10:31

[It is] a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

2 Timothy 2:24

And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all [men], apt to teach, patient,

2 Timothy 2:26

And [that] they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

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 Corinthians 1:14

As also ye have acknowledged us in part, that we are your rejoicing, even as ye also [are] ours in the day of the Lord Jesus.

Psalms 90:11

Who knoweth the power of thine anger? even according to thy fear, [so is] thy wrath.