2 Corinthians 6:8

By honour and dishonour, by evil report and good report: as deceivers, and [yet] true;

By {G1223} honour {G1391} and {G2532} dishonour {G819}, by {G1223} evil report {G1426} and {G2532} good report {G2162}: as {G5613} deceivers {G4108}, and {G2532} yet true {G227};

through being honored and dishonored, praised and blamed, considered deceptive and sincere,

through glory and dishonor, slander and praise; viewed as imposters, yet genuine;

by glory and dishonor, by evil report and good report; as deceivers, and yet true;

2 Corinthians 6:8 is a powerful verse that encapsulates the paradoxical nature of authentic Christian ministry and discipleship. It’s part of a larger section where the Apostle Paul defends his ministry and that of his companions, listing various experiences that characterize true servants of God. This verse highlights the stark contrasts they faced: being perceived as dishonorable, facing slander, and even being labeled as imposters, while in reality, they were living out profound truth and integrity.

Context

This verse comes within a passage (2 Corinthians 6:3-10) where Paul articulates the qualities and experiences that mark genuine ministers of the new covenant. He lists a series of hardships, persecutions, and paradoxical situations, demonstrating that their ministry was not based on worldly approval or ease, but on divine power and enduring faithfulness. Paul's aim is to show that true service to God often involves suffering and misunderstanding from the world, contrasting it with those who might seek an easier path or worldly recognition, as he touched upon in 2 Corinthians 6:3.

Key Themes

  • Paradoxical Ministry: The verse powerfully illustrates that God's work often operates under principles contrary to worldly wisdom. Ministers might be "dishonoured" in the eyes of the world but "honoured" by God; they might receive "evil report" but faithfully carry out "good report" (the Gospel message). This theme of strength in weakness is central to Paul's theology, as seen in 2 Corinthians 12:10.
  • Authenticity Amidst Accusation: Paul and his co-workers were frequently slandered and accused of being deceptive or insincere. Yet, despite these accusations, they remained "true" and faithful to their calling and to Christ. This speaks to the integrity of their character and the divine source of their message, regardless of human perception.
  • Endurance in Adversity: The verse is a testament to the endurance required in Christian service. It teaches that negative perceptions, false accusations, and social dishonor are often part of the path for those committed to God's truth.

Linguistic Insights

The contrast between "deceivers" and "true" is particularly striking. The Greek word for "deceivers" is planoi (πλάνοι), which literally means "wanderers" or "misleaders." It suggests someone who leads astray or is an imposter. In stark contrast, "true" comes from aletheis (ἀληθεῖς), meaning "genuine," "real," or "authentic." This juxtaposition emphasizes the vast difference between how the world perceived Paul and his team versus their actual identity and mission in Christ. They were perceived as fakes, but were truly genuine.

Practical Application

For believers today, 2 Corinthians 6:8 offers profound encouragement and guidance:

  • Embrace Paradox: Understand that following Christ may lead to being misunderstood, criticized, or even slandered by the world. Your ultimate approval comes from God, not from human opinion.
  • Live Authentically: Despite external reports or accusations, maintain your integrity and commitment to the truth. Your actions and character, grounded in Christ, will ultimately demonstrate your genuineness, even if not immediately recognized by all. This echoes the call to seek God's approval over man's.
  • Persevere: The verse reminds us that trials, negative reports, and accusations are part of the journey of faith. It encourages perseverance, knowing that God sees the truth and will vindicate His faithful servants.

Ultimately, 2 Corinthians 6:8 is a powerful reminder that the true measure of Christian ministry and life is not found in public acclaim or worldly success, but in steadfast faithfulness to God amidst all circumstances, living truly even when falsely accused.

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.

  • Matthew 27:63

    Saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said, while he was yet alive, After three days I will rise again.

  • 1 Peter 4:14

    If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy [are ye]; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.

  • 1 Timothy 4:10

    For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe.

  • Acts 24:5

    For we have found this man [a] pestilent [fellow], and a mover of sedition among all the Jews throughout the world, and a ringleader of the sect of the Nazarenes:

  • Revelation 3:9

    Behold, I will make them of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do lie; behold, I will make them to come and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved thee.

  • Acts 28:22

    But we desire to hear of thee what thou thinkest: for as concerning this sect, we know that every where it is spoken against.

  • Romans 3:8

    And not [rather], (as we be slanderously reported, and as some affirm that we say,) Let us do evil, that good may come? whose damnation is just.

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