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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
Two Centuries of Reception
5 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
In like manner, when he inserts the words "If so be that being unclothed we be not found naked." -referring, of course, to those who shall not be found in the day of the Lord alive and in the flesh-he did not say that they whom he had just described as unclothed or stripped, were naked in any other sense than meaning that they should be understood to be reinvested with the very same substance they had been divested of.
People are earnest in their prayers that they should not be excluded from the glory which is promised. This is what being found naked means. For when the soul is clothed in a body, it must also be clothed with the glory by which it is transformed into brightness.
The unbeliever and the evil man, even if by chance he puts on a heavenly body, will still be found naked, because he has done nothing to acquire the clothing of the inner man.
"If so be that being unclothed we shall not be found naked." That is, even if we have put off the body, we shall not be presented there without a body, but even with the same one made incorruptible. But some read, and it deserves very much to be adopted, "If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked." For lest all should be confident because of the Resurrection, he says, "If so be that being clothed," that is, having obtained incorruption and an incorruptible body, "we shall not be found naked" of glory and safety. As he also said in the former Epistle; "We shall all be raised; but each in his own order." And, "There are celestial bodies, and bodies terrestial." For the Resurrection indeed is common to all, but the glory is not common; but some shall rise in honor and others in dishonor, and some to a kingdom but others to punishment. This surely he signified here also, when he said; "If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked."
Everyone, righteous and unrighteous alike, will put on immortality. But if the latter are consigned to hell, that is the same thing as being found naked.
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Summary
Paul's statement in 2 Corinthians 5:3, "If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked," encapsulates a profound theological hope regarding the believer's future bodily state. It expresses the Christian's earnest desire and confident expectation that at the resurrection or transformation, they will not be found in a state of disembodied vulnerability, but rather will be gloriously "clothed" with an immortal, spiritual body, signifying complete redemption and preparation for eternity in God's presence.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is a crucial part of Paul's extended argument in 2 Corinthians 5:1-10. He uses the powerful metaphor of "earthly tents" (our mortal bodies) being dismantled, contrasted with a "building from God, an eternal house in heaven" (our resurrection bodies). The preceding verses, specifically 2 Corinthians 5:1-2, articulate the groaning of believers who long to be "clothed" with this heavenly dwelling, rather than merely "unclothed" by death. Verse 3 serves as a parenthetical clarification or an emphatic assurance, underscoring that the Christian hope is not for a state of perpetual disembodiment, but for a glorious re-embodiment. It reinforces the desire for a seamless transition from mortal to immortal, avoiding any period of spiritual "nakedness" or vulnerability.
Historical & Cultural Context
Paul's Corinthian audience was diverse, with some influenced by Greek philosophical ideas that often denigrated the body, viewing it as a prison for the soul. This perspective could lead to a misunderstanding of resurrection, suggesting that a disembodied state might be preferable or the ultimate spiritual goal. Furthermore, there were likely questions and doubts within the Corinthian church concerning the nature of the resurrection body, as evidenced by Paul's extensive treatment of the subject in 1 Corinthians 15. Paul's emphasis on being "clothed" rather than "naked" directly addresses these concerns, affirming the essential role of a glorified body in God's redemptive plan and countering any notion of a desirable, permanent, disembodied existence. The cultural understanding of "nakedness" as vulnerability, shame, or lack of status (as seen in various ancient contexts, including the Old Testament) adds weight to Paul's choice of imagery.
Key Themes
The central theme in this passage, and particularly in 2 Corinthians 5, is the Believer's Future Hope and Glorification. Paul articulates a confident expectation of a transformed existence beyond death, characterized by a new, imperishable body. This hope is intrinsically linked to the Assurance of Resurrection, a foundational doctrine of Christianity, which promises that death does not have the final say over believers. The imagery of "clothing" and "nakedness" also highlights the theme of Divine Provision and Protection, emphasizing that God will fully equip and prepare believers for eternity, ensuring they are not found wanting. This aligns with the broader New Testament teaching on the Christian's ultimate transformation, as described in passages like Philippians 3:21 and 1 Corinthians 15:53-54.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
From the Greek G1746, meaning "to invest with clothing (literally or figuratively)." In this context, it signifies being adorned or equipped with a new, spiritual body. It implies a divine act of provision, where God Himself "clothes" the believer with an imperishable, glorified form, rather than the believer remaining in a state of disembodied vulnerability. This "clothing" is the heavenly dwelling, the resurrection body, which is superior and eternal.
From the Greek G2147, meaning "to find (literally or figuratively); to get, obtain, perceive, see." Here, it carries the nuance of being discovered or revealed in a certain state at a critical juncture, likely referring to the moment of death, the return of Christ, or the general resurrection. The passive voice ("shall be found") suggests an external assessment or discovery, emphasizing that God or Christ will observe the believer's state. The implication is a desire to be found in a state of readiness and completion, not lacking.
From the Greek G1131, meaning "nude (absolute or relative, literal or figurative)." In this spiritual and eschatological context, "naked" does not refer to physical unclothedness but metaphorically to a state of being without the glorified resurrection body. It signifies vulnerability, incompleteness, or being unprepared for eternal life. It represents the undesirable state of remaining disembodied after death, a state that Paul and believers earnestly wish to avoid, preferring to be "clothed upon" with their heavenly dwelling.
Verse Breakdown
"If so be that being clothed"
This clause introduces a condition or a desired outcome. The phrase "if so be that" (Greek: eíge) can imply "seeing that" or "since indeed," suggesting a strong expectation or even an assumed reality for believers. "Being clothed" refers to the state of having received or being invested with the spiritual, immortal body that Paul describes as the "heavenly dwelling" in the preceding verses. It is the state of full glorification and transformation.
"we shall not be found naked"
This is the desired negative outcome, the antithesis of being clothed. "We shall not be found" implies a future discovery or assessment, likely at the time of death or the Lord's return. "Naked" here is a metaphorical term for being without the resurrection body, a state of disembodiment or spiritual vulnerability. The clause expresses the earnest hope that believers will bypass or be spared such a state, moving directly from their mortal bodies into their glorified ones, or being immediately clothed with their spiritual bodies upon death.
Literary Devices
Paul employs several powerful literary devices in this concise verse. The most prominent is Metaphor, where the physical act of "clothing" represents the spiritual reality of receiving a glorified, immortal body, and "nakedness" symbolizes a state of disembodied vulnerability or incompleteness. This metaphorical language extends from the "earthly tent" and "heavenly dwelling" imagery in the surrounding verses, creating a consistent and vivid picture of the believer's eschatological hope. Furthermore, there is a clear Antithesis between "being clothed" and "being found naked." These two contrasting states highlight the stark choice or outcome Paul envisions, emphasizing the desirability of the former and the undesirability of the latter. The use of the conditional "If so be that" (or "seeing that") can also be seen as a form of Rhetorical Question or Assurance, subtly affirming the certainty of the believer's future glorification while framing it as a desired outcome.
Theological and Thematic Connections
This verse is profoundly theological, articulating the Christian doctrine of bodily resurrection and glorification. It underscores that the ultimate destiny of the believer is not a disembodied spirit floating eternally, but a fully redeemed human being, body and soul, perfectly suited for God's presence. Paul's longing to be "clothed" rather than "naked" speaks to the inherent goodness of the body as God's creation, even in its glorified form, and the completeness of salvation that encompasses both spirit and matter. It affirms that God's plan for humanity involves a physical, albeit transformed, existence in the new heavens and new earth. This hope provides immense comfort and assurance, transforming the fear of death into an anticipation of ultimate fulfillment in Christ.
Reflection and Application
The profound hope expressed in 2 Corinthians 5:3 offers immense comfort and a powerful perspective for believers facing mortality. It reminds us that death is not the end of our existence, nor is it a permanent state of vulnerability or disembodiment for those in Christ. Instead, it is a transition to a glorious, perfected state, where we will be fully "clothed" with a body fit for eternity. This truth should alleviate anxieties about death and the afterlife, fostering a deep sense of security in God's ultimate plan for our redemption. It encourages us to live with an eternal perspective, knowing that our present sufferings are temporary and our future glory is assured. This hope also inspires us to live faithfully and purposefully now, as we await the full manifestation of our redemption, understanding that our ultimate destiny is to be completely prepared and presented before God.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Does this verse mean believers will not experience a period of disembodiment after death?
The interpretation of "If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked" is debated among scholars, but the prevailing view is that Paul expresses a strong desire and confident expectation that believers will not remain in a permanent state of disembodiment. Some interpret it as a longing for the rapture, where living believers would bypass death and be instantly glorified, thus never being "naked." Others see it as an assurance that even for those who die, the intermediate state between death and resurrection is not one of vulnerable "nakedness," but that they are immediately "clothed" with a temporary spiritual body or are "at home with the Lord" (2 Corinthians 5:8). The core message is the ultimate certainty of a glorified bodily existence for all believers, whether through resurrection or transformation, ensuring they are never found without their divine covering.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
2 Corinthians 5:3 finds its ultimate fulfillment and meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. It is through Christ's death and resurrection that the promise of a glorified body becomes a reality for believers. His resurrection from the dead is the "firstfruits" (1 Corinthians 15:20) of our own future resurrection, demonstrating the power of God to transform mortal bodies into immortal ones. The "heavenly dwelling" that Paul longs for is a spiritual body patterned after Christ's glorious resurrection body (Philippians 3:21). Furthermore, being "clothed" with this heavenly body is a direct consequence of being "clothed with Christ" in this life through faith and baptism (Galatians 3:27). Our union with Christ ensures that we will share in His victory over death and receive the full redemption, including the redemption of our bodies, so that we are indeed "not found naked" but fully prepared to dwell eternally with our Lord.