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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 2 Corinthians 5:1–11. His four-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
The apostle in these verses pursues the argument of the former chapter, concerning the grounds of their courage and patience under afflictions. And,
I.He mentions their expectation, and desire, and assurance, of eternal happiness after death, Co2 5:1-5. Observe particularly,
1.The believer's expectation of eternal happiness after death, Co2 5:1. He does not only know, or is well assured by faith of the truth and reality of the thing itself - that there is another and a happy life after this present life is ended, but he has good hope through grace of his interest in that everlasting blessedness of the unseen world: "We know that we have a building of God, we have a firm and well-grounded expectation of the future felicity." Let us take notice,
(1.)What heaven is in the eye and hope of a believer. He looks upon it as a house, or habitation, a dwelling-place, a resting-place, a hiding-place, our Father's house, where there are many mansions, and our everlasting home. It is a house in the heavens, in that high and holy place which as far excels all the palaces of this earth as the heavens are high above the earth. It is a building of God, whose builder and maker is God, and therefore is worthy of its author; the happiness of the future state is what God hath prepared for those that love him. It is eternal in the heavens, everlasting habitations, not like the earthly tabernacles, the poor cottages of clay in which our souls now dwell, which are mouldering and decaying, and whose foundations are in the dust.
(2.)When it is expected this happiness shall be enjoyed - immediately after death, so soon as our house of this earthly tabernacle is dissolved. Note,
[1.]That the body, this earthly house, is but a tabernacle, that must be dissolved shortly; the nails or pins will be drawn, and the cords be loosed, and then the body will return to dust as it was.
[2.]When this comes to pass, then comes the house not made with hands. The spirit returns to God who gave it; and such as have walked with God here shall dwell with God for ever.
2.The believer's earnest desire after this future blessedness, which is expressed by this word, stenazomen - we groan, which denotes,
(1.)A groaning of sorrow under a heavy load; so believers groan under the burden of life: In this we groan earnestly, Co2 5:2. We that are in this tabernacle groan, being burdened, Co2 5:4. The body of flesh is a heavy burden, the calamities of life are a heavy load. But believers groan because burdened with a body of sin, and the many corruptions that are still remaining and raging in them. This makes them complain, O wretched man that I am! Rom 7:24.
(2.)There is a groaning of desire after the happiness of another life; and thus believers groan: Earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven (Co2 5:2), to obtain a blessed immortality, that mortality might be swallowed up of life (Co2 5:4), that being found clothed, we may not be naked (Co2 5:3), that, if it were the will of God, we might not sleep, but be changed; for it is not desirable in itself to be unclothed. Death considered merely as a separation of soul and body is not to be desired, but rather dreaded; but, considered as a passage to glory, the believer is willing rather to die than live, to be absent from the body, that he may be present with the Lord (Co2 5:1), to leave this body that he may go to Christ, and to put off these rags of mortality that he may put on the robes of glory. Note,
[1.]Death will strip us of the clothing of flesh, and all the comforts of life, as well as put an end to all our troubles here below. Naked we came into this world, and naked shall we go out of it. But,
[2.]Gracious souls are not found naked in the other world; no, they are clothed with garments of praise, with robes of righteousness and glory. They shall be delivered out of all their troubles, and shall have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb, Rev 7:14.
3.The believer's assurance of his interest in this future blessedness, on a double account: - (1.) From the experience of the grace of God, in preparing and making him meet for this blessedness. He that hath wrought us for the self-same thing is God, Co2 5:5. Note, All who are designed for heaven hereafter are wrought or prepared for heaven while they are here; the stones of that spiritual building and temple above are squared and fashioned here below. And he that hath wrought us for this is God, because nothing less than a divine power can make a soul partaker of a divine nature; no hand less than the hand of God can work us for this thing. A great deal is to be done to prepare our souls for heaven, and that preparation of the heart is from the Lord. (2.) The earnest of the Spirit gave them this assurance: for an earnest is part of payment, and secures the full payment. The present graces and comforts of the Spirit are earnests of everlasting grace and comfort.
II.The apostle deduces an inference for the comfort of believers in their present state and condition in this world, Co2 5:6-8. Here observe,
1.What their present state or condition is: they are absent from the Lord (Co2 5:6); they are pilgrims and strangers in this world; they do but sojourn here in their earthly home, or in this tabernacle; and though God is with us here, by his Spirit, and in his ordinances, yet we are not with him as we hope to be: we cannot see his face while we live: For we walk by faith, not by sight, Co2 5:7. We have not the vision and fruition of God, as of an object that is present with us, and as we hope for hereafter, when we shall see as we are seen. Note, Faith is for this world, and sight is reserved for the other world: and it is our duty, and will be our interest, to walk by faith, till we come to live by sight.
2.How comfortable and courageous we ought to be in all the troubles of life, and in the hour of death: Therefore we are, or ought to be, always confident (Co2 5:6), and again (Co2 5:8), We are confident, and willing rather to be absent from the body. True Christians, if they duly considered the prospect faith gives them of another world, and the good reasons of their hope of blessedness after death, would be comforted under the troubles of life, and supported in the hour of death: they should take courage, when they are encountering the last enemy, and be willing rather to die than live, when it is the will of God that they should put off this tabernacle. Note, As those who are born from above long to be there, so it is but being absent from the body, and we shall very soon be present with the Lord - but to die, and be with Christ - but to close our eyes to all things in this world, and we shall open them in a world of glory. Faith will be turned into sight.
III.He proceeds to deduce an inference to excite and quicken himself and others to duty, Co2 5:9-11.
So it is that well-grounded hopes of heaven will be far from giving the least encouragement to sloth and sinful security; on the contrary, they should stir us up to use the greatest care and diligence in religion: Wherefore, or because we hope to be present with the Lord, we labour and take pains, Co2 5:9. Philotimoumetha - We are ambitious, and labour as industriously as the most ambitious men do to obtain what they aim at. Here observe,
1.What it was that the apostle was thus ambitious of - acceptance with God. We labour that, living and dying, whether present in the body or absent from the body, we may be accepted of him, the Lord (Co2 5:9), that we may please him who hath chosen us, that our great Lord may say to us, Well done. This they coveted as the greatest favour and the highest honour: it was the summit of their ambition.
2.What further quickening motives they had to excite their diligence, from the consideration of the judgment to come, Co2 5:10, Co2 5:11. There are many things relating to this great matter that should awe the best of men into the utmost care and diligence in religion; for example, the certainty of this judgment, for we must appear; the universality of it, for we must all appear; the great Judge before whose judgment-seat we must appear, the Lord Jesus Christ, who himself will appear in flaming fire; the recompence to be then received, for things done in the body, which will be very particular (unto every one), and very just, according to what we have done, whether good or bad. The apostle calls this awful judgment the terror of the Lord (Co2 5:11), and, by the consideration thereof, was excited to persuade men to repent, and live a holy life, that, when Christ shall appear terribly, they may appear before him comfortably. And, concerning his fidelity and diligence, he comfortably appeals unto God, and the consciences of those he wrote to: We are made manifest unto God, and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.
Historical interpretation
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He treats of this subject in order to offer consolation against the fear of death and the dread of this very dissolution, as is even more manifest from what follows, when he adds, that "in this tabernacle of our earthly body we do groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with the vesture which is from heaven, if so be, that having been unclothed, we shall not be found naked; "in other words, shall regain that of which we have been divested, even our body.
For the apostle makes a distinction, when he goes on to say, "For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven, if so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked; " which means, before we put off the garment of the flesh, we wish to be clothed with the celestial glory of immortality.
The apostle here calls "clothing."
"For verily in this we groan, longing to be clothed upon with our habitation which is from heaven." What habitation? tell me. The incorruptible body. And why do we groan now? Because that is far better. And "from heaven" he calls it because of its incorruptibleness. For it is not surely that a body will come down to us from above: but by this expression he signifies the grace which is sent from thence. So far then ought we to be from grieving at these trials which are in part that we ought to seek even for their fulness, as if he had said: Groanest thou, that thou art persecuted, that this thy man is decaying? Groan that this is not done unto excess and that it perishes not entirely. Seest thou how he hath turned round what was said unto the contrary; having proved that they ought to groan that those things were not done fully; for which because they were done partially; they groaned. Therefore he henceforth calls it not a tabernacle, but a house, and with great reason. For a tabernacle indeed is easily taken to pieces; but a house abideth continually.
Our groanings are like those of a woman in labor, awaiting a new birth.
The heavenly body is not some different one but the one we have now, which will be transformed.
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Summary
In 2 Corinthians 5:2, the Apostle Paul articulates the deep, spiritual longing of believers who, while dwelling in their temporary earthly bodies, yearn for the future, glorified state. This "groaning" is not a complaint but an earnest desire to be fully enveloped by their eternal, heavenly dwelling, a transformation that signifies the ultimate triumph of life over mortality, promising a perfected existence in the presence of God.
Context
Literary Context
This verse stands as a direct continuation and elaboration of the profound theological truths introduced in 2 Corinthians 5:1. Paul has just contrasted the perishable nature of the earthly "tent" (our physical body) with the eternal, divinely constructed "building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." The "groaning" of verse 2 is the natural, spiritual response to living in this temporary, decaying dwelling, burdened by its limitations and the effects of a fallen world. It expresses a fervent longing for the promised, permanent, and glorified body that awaits believers, a theme further developed in 2 Corinthians 5:3-4.
Historical & Cultural Context
Paul's audience in Corinth was familiar with the concept of temporary dwellings, such as tents, often used by travelers or soldiers, contrasting sharply with permanent, solid structures. This imagery would resonate with their understanding of life's transient nature. Furthermore, the Greco-Roman world, particularly some philosophical schools, often viewed the body as a prison for the soul, desiring a disembodied existence. Paul, however, presents a distinctively Christian hope: not disembodiment, but a perfected, immortal embodiment. This perspective aligns with the Jewish expectation of bodily resurrection, reinterpreted and fulfilled in Christ, as seen in Daniel 12:2. The "house from heaven" thus speaks to a divine, rather than earthly, origin for this future glorious body, countering any purely philosophical or Gnostic leanings toward an anti-material worldview.
Key Themes
The central theme in this passage is the eschatological hope of the believer, particularly concerning the redemption and glorification of the body. Paul emphasizes that while our current bodies are subject to decay and weakness, there is a certain and glorious future where believers will receive an incorruptible, spiritual body, as detailed in 1 Corinthians 15:42-44. This longing for a "house from heaven" highlights the divine origin and nature of this future dwelling, contrasting it with human frailty. It also underscores the certainty of God's promise for a perfected existence, free from the groaning and burdens of this present age, aligning with the broader New Testament teaching on the believer's future inheritance and the consummation of salvation at Christ's return, a hope that anchors believers amidst present suffering, as expressed in Romans 8:23.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This word signifies a deep, inward sighing or groaning, often expressing distress, sorrow, or intense longing. It is not a complaint of dissatisfaction but an expression of profound yearning for a desired future state. It conveys the burden and limitation experienced in the present body, anticipating relief and transformation.
This term intensifies the "groaning," indicating a strong, passionate, and even yearning desire. It implies a deep emotional craving for the possession or experience of something. In this context, it highlights the intense spiritual longing for the future, glorified body and the full realization of God's redemptive plan.
This unique compound verb is crucial. It means "to invest upon oneself" or "to put on over." It suggests a superimposition or absorption of the mortal by the immortal, rather than a mere shedding of the body (being "unclothed"). Paul clarifies this preference in 2 Corinthians 5:4, expressing a desire not to be found naked (disembodied through death) but to be "clothed upon" with immortality, so that "mortality might be swallowed up of life."
This word refers to a residence or dwelling, used here both literally and figuratively. In the context of 2 Corinthians 5, it serves as a powerful metaphor for the body. The "earthly house" is our present mortal body, while the "house which is from heaven" refers to the future, glorified, and eternal body that believers will receive.
The preposition "from" (ek) denotes origin, emphasizing that this future "house" (body) is not of earthly construction or human effort but is divinely given, originating directly from God's heavenly realm. "Heaven" here signifies the abode of God, the source of ultimate blessedness and divine power, underscoring the supernatural and glorious nature of this promised transformation.
Verse Breakdown
"For in this we groan"
Paul begins by explaining the reason for the believer's present experience. The "this" refers to our current earthly existence in a perishable body, as described in the preceding verse. The "groaning" is a deep, internal sigh, not of despair or complaint, but of a profound, almost involuntary yearning. It reflects the tension between the temporary, frail nature of our current physical dwelling and the eternal hope that resides within us. This groaning is a natural response to the limitations, sufferings, and decay inherent in our mortal bodies in a fallen world.
"earnestly desiring to be clothed upon"
This phrase intensifies the "groaning," revealing it as a fervent, passionate longing. The metaphor of "clothed upon" is central. It suggests a desire for the immortal, glorified body to be put on over or to completely absorb the mortal body, rather than a mere shedding or discarding of the physical form. This indicates a desire for transformation and perfection of the body, not its annihilation. It speaks to the Christian hope of a full, embodied existence in eternity, transcending the current limitations.
"with our house which is from heaven"
This clause specifies the object of the earnest desire: "our house which is from heaven." The "house" is a metaphor for the future, glorified body. The crucial addition "which is from heaven" emphasizes its divine origin and supernatural quality. This future body is not merely an improved version of our current one but a divinely given, eternal dwelling, perfectly suited for life in God's presence. It is a gift from God, originating from the heavenly realm, signifying its incorruptible and glorious nature.
Literary Devices
Paul masterfully employs Metaphor throughout this passage, likening the earthly body to a "tent" or "earthly house" and the future glorified body to a "building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens," and here, "our house which is from heaven." This creates a vivid contrast between the temporary and the eternal, the perishable and the imperishable. The concept of "groaning" serves as a powerful Personification of the human spirit's deep yearning, giving voice to an internal spiritual ache. The phrase "to be clothed upon" is a striking Imagery that conveys the idea of an ultimate transformation where mortality is not merely discarded but absorbed and overcome by immortality, a concept Paul further develops in 1 Corinthians 15:53-54. This imagery suggests a seamless transition and a complete victory of life over death.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Paul's articulation of the believer's "groaning" and earnest desire for a "house from heaven" profoundly connects with the broader biblical narrative of creation, fall, and redemption. It underscores the Christian understanding of the human person as an embodied soul, not merely a spirit trapped in a body. The longing is not for disembodiment, but for a perfected embodiment, free from the curse of sin and decay. This future body, originating "from heaven," signifies God's complete and ultimate redemption, extending even to our physical being. It assures believers that their ultimate hope is not in the preservation of this fleeting earthly life but in the glorious, incorruptible future God has prepared, where the perishable will put on the imperishable, and the mortal will put on immortality.
Reflection and Application
2 Corinthians 5:2 offers profound comfort and a vital eternal perspective for believers navigating the realities of a fallen world. In a world marked by physical decay, suffering, and the inevitability of death, this verse reminds us that our present struggles and limitations are temporary. Our ultimate hope is not in the fleeting preservation of this earthly life, but in the glorious, eternal future God has prepared for those in Christ. This "groaning" is a holy discontent, a Spirit-empowered yearning that directs our gaze heavenward, reminding us that our true and lasting home, our perfected existence, is "from heaven." It encourages us to live with an eternal mindset, prioritizing what truly lasts, finding resilience and steadfastness in faith, knowing that a perfect, incorruptible body awaits, free from the burdens of this age. This hope does not detach us from present realities but empowers us to face them with courage, knowing our ultimate destination.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does Paul mean by "groan" in this verse?
When Paul says "we groan," he is describing a deep, inward sighing or yearning, not a complaint born of despair or bitterness. It's a profound expression of the human spirit's longing for something better, something eternal, while still experiencing the limitations, weaknesses, and decay of the mortal body in a fallen world. This groaning is an anticipation of the full redemption that awaits believers, a spiritual ache for the perfected, immortal body that God has promised. It aligns with the groaning of creation itself, awaiting its liberation, as described in Romans 8:22-23.
Is Paul desiring to be disembodied or to escape the body entirely?
No, Paul is not expressing a desire for disembodiment or the annihilation of the body. In fact, he clarifies this in 2 Corinthians 5:4, stating that he does not wish to be "unclothed" (meaning, to be disembodied through death), but rather "clothed upon" with the heavenly dwelling. This signifies a desire for the mortal body to be transformed and absorbed by the immortal, glorified body, so that "mortality might be swallowed up of life." The Christian hope, unlike some ancient philosophies, is not an escape from the body but its redemption and glorification, leading to a perfected, embodied existence in eternity.
What is the "house which is from heaven"?
The "house which is from heaven" is a powerful metaphor for the future, glorified body that believers will receive at the resurrection. It is contrasted with the "earthly house" or "tent" mentioned in 2 Corinthians 5:1, which refers to our present perishable physical body. The phrase "from heaven" emphasizes that this future body is not of human origin or earthly construction; rather, it is a divine gift, supernaturally given by God, eternal, incorruptible, and perfectly suited for life in His presence. It represents the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive work in us, transforming us into Christ's likeness, as anticipated in Philippians 3:21.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
The "groaning" of 2 Corinthians 5:2 finds its ultimate answer and fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Our earnest desire to be "clothed upon with our house which is from heaven" is not a mere wish but a certain hope grounded in Christ's resurrection. He is the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep, demonstrating the pattern for our future glorified bodies (1 Corinthians 15:20). Just as Christ's resurrected body transcended earthly limitations while retaining continuity with His earthly body, so too will our "house from heaven" be a perfected, immortal version of our current selves, made fit for eternity. This transformation is assured because we are "in Christ," united with Him in His death and resurrection (Romans 6:5). Our longing is for the day when our mortal bodies will be conformed to His glorious body (Philippians 3:21), a promise secured by the indwelling Spirit who is the down payment of our inheritance (Ephesians 1:13-14). Thus, our groaning is a Spirit-empowered anticipation of the full and final redemption wrought by Christ, where death is swallowed up in victory and we are forever with the Lord (1 Thessalonians 4:17).