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.

As {G2531} also {G2532} ye have acknowledged {G1921} us {G2248} in {G575} part {G3313}, that {G3754} we are {G2070} your {G5216} rejoicing {G2745}, even as {G2509} ye {G5210} also {G2532} are ours {G2257} in {G1722} the day {G2250} of the Lord {G2962} Jesus {G2424}.

as indeed you have already understood us in part; so that on the Day of our Lord Yeshua you can be as proud of us as we are of you.

as you have already understood us in part, so that you may boast of us just as we will boast of you in the day of our Lord Jesus.

as also ye did acknowledge us in part, that we are your glorying, even as ye also are ours, in the day of our Lord Jesus.

Commentary

2 Corinthians 1:14 highlights the deep, reciprocal relationship between the Apostle Paul and the Corinthian believers, emphasizing their mutual joy and understanding. Paul expresses confidence that despite any misunderstandings, the Corinthians have indeed recognized the authenticity of his ministry and the sincerity of his love for them.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's opening defense and explanation to the Corinthian church. He is addressing criticisms and clarifying his change of travel plans, aiming to restore trust and affirm the genuine nature of his apostolic calling. Having spoken of God's faithfulness and their shared spiritual blessings in 2 Corinthians 1:13, Paul now points to the Corinthians' own partial acknowledgment of his integrity. He grounds their relationship not just in present understanding but in a future, ultimate validation.

Key Themes

  • Mutual Joy and Glory: The core message is that Paul found the Corinthians to be his "rejoicing" (a source of pride and joy), just as they recognized him as theirs. This underscores a healthy, reciprocal relationship within the body of Christ, where believers are a source of encouragement and honor to one another. This mutual joy is a testament to their shared faith and spiritual connection, much like Paul's joy in the Philippians mentioned in Philippians 4:1.
  • Shared Acknowledgment: The phrase "ye have acknowledged us in part" indicates that while there might have been some friction or incomplete understanding, the Corinthians had, to a significant degree, recognized Paul's true character and the divine origin of his ministry. This acknowledgment was crucial for Paul, affirming the legitimacy of his work among them.
  • The Day of the Lord Jesus: This eschatological phrase points to the future day of Christ's return and judgment. It is then that the full extent of their mutual rejoicing and the fruits of their faith will be completely revealed and celebrated. This future hope serves as the ultimate validation of their relationship and Paul's ministry, a common theme in Paul's writings, as seen in 1 Corinthians 1:8.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "acknowledged" is epiginōskō (ἐπιγινώσκω), which implies a full and complete knowledge, a deep recognition, or a thorough understanding, rather than a superficial acquaintance. It suggests that the Corinthians had discerned the true nature of Paul and his apostleship. The term "rejoicing" comes from kauchēma (καύχημα), which means a ground for boasting, a glory, or something to be proud of. It's not merely a feeling of happiness, but a source of honor and commendation that one can take pride in.

Practical Application

This verse reminds us of the profound value of Christian community and mutual appreciation. In our churches and relationships, we should strive to be a source of joy and encouragement to one another. Recognizing and affirming the good in others, especially those who serve God, strengthens the body of Christ. Furthermore, it points us to the future: the ultimate validation of our faith, service, and relationships in Christ will occur at the return of Jesus, when all things will be made clear and our shared joy will be complete.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Corinthians 1:8 (8 votes)

    Who shall also confirm you unto the end, [that ye may be] blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:19 (8 votes)

    For what [is] our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? [Are] not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:20 (8 votes)

    For ye are our glory and joy.

  • Philippians 2:16 (8 votes)

    Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.

  • 1 Thessalonians 3:13 (6 votes)

    To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.

  • Philippians 1:10 (5 votes)

    That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ;

  • Philippians 4:1 (5 votes)

    ¶ Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, [my] dearly beloved.