Cambridge Greek Testament Commentary

2 Corinthians 4:5

5. It is difficult to decide between Χριστὸν Ἰησοῦν (BHKL, Copt. Arm.) and Ἰησοῦν Χριστόν (אACD, Latt. Goth.), and between διὰ Ἰησοῦν (BDFG) and διὰ Ἰησοῦ (אC), which διὰ Χριστοῦ (א15) supports. See on 2 Corinthians 1:1.

5. οὐ γὰρ ἑαυτοὺς κηρύσσομεν. It is very far-fetched to make γάρ refer back to 2 Corinthians 3:1-5. It refers quite naturally to 2 Corinthians 4:2 or 2 Corinthians 4:4 or both. ‘I am quite justified in saying that we do not adulterate the word of God by mixing our own advantage with it, and that our Gospel is the Gospel of the glory of Christ, for it is not ourselves (first with emphasis) that we preach, but (on the contrary) Christ Jesus as Lord, and ourselves as your bondservants for Jesus’ sake.’ He is not insinuating that his opponents preach themselves: he is repelling a charge which they brought against him. Such passages as 1 Corinthians 4:16; 1 Corinthians 7:7; 1 Corinthians 11:1 might be used to support such a charge. We are not to understand κυρίους from κύριον, ‘we preach not ourselves as lords.’ But δούλους must have its full meaning, ‘bondservants, slaves.’ And he does not say ‘Christ’s slaves’ but ‘your slaves’; yet, to show that this is said in no servile, fawning spirit, he adds ‘for Jesus’ sake,’ or possibly ‘through Jesus.’ See critical note, and on 2 Corinthians 1:1.

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Cambridge Greek Testament Commentary

2 Corinthians 4:5

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