2 Corinthians 10:4

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2 Corinthians 10:4 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

The weapons of our warfare are not the weapons of the world. Instead, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.

King James Version KJV

(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)

American Standard Version ASV

(for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but mighty before God to the casting down of strongholds);

Bible in Basic English BBE

(For the arms with which we are fighting are not those of the flesh, but are strong before God for the destruction of high places);

Free Bible Version FBV

Our weapons are not of this world but God's mighty power that destroys fortresses of human thinking, demolishing misleading theories.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

(For the weapons of our warrefare are not carnall, but mightie through God, to cast downe holdes)

Young's Literal Translation YLT

for the weapons of our warfare [are] not fleshly, but powerful to God for bringing down of strongholds,

World English Bible WEB

for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but mighty before God to the throwing down of strongholds,

Noah Webster Bible WBS

(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty to God unto the pulling down of fortifications, destroying counsels,

Translation for Translators T4T

I will tell you what I mean by that: Just like soldiers use various weapons to fight their enemies [MET], I ◄fight against/oppose► those who oppose God’s message, but I do it in a different way. I do not use human arguments and clever/sweet talk, like unbelievers do. Instead, I fight against my opponents with the powerful means that God has given me. With that power I destroy their arguments against God’s message and against me, just like soldiers destroy [MET] the fortresses of their enemies.

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Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Corinthians 10:4

BAB

Word Study

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2 Corinthians 10:4 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

GRK τα γαρ οπλα της στρατειας ημων ου σαρκικα αλλα δυνατα τω θεω προς καθαιρεσιν οχυρωματων

τα ho G3588 the/this/who Art-NPN

γαρ gar G1063 for Conj

οπλα hoplon G3696 weapon Noun-NPN

της ho G3588 the/this/who Art-GSF

στρατειας strateia G4752 warfare Noun-GSF

ημων egō G1473 I/we Pron-1GP

ου ou G3756 no Particle-N

σαρκικα sarkikos G4559 fleshly Adj-NPN

αλλα alla G235 but Conj

δυνατα dunatos G1415 able Adj-NPN

τω ho G3588 the/this/who Art-DSM

θεω theos G2316 God Noun-DSM

προς pros G4314 to/with Prep

καθαιρεσιν kathairesis G2506 destruction Noun-ASF

οχυρωματων ochurōma G3794 stronghold Noun-GPN

Greek Word Study

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Greek Word Reference — 2 Corinthians 10:4

τα ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-NPN

The Greek word for 'the' or 'this', used to point out a specific person or thing, like in Acts 17:28. It can also mean 'he', 'she', or 'it'.

Definition: ὁ, ἡ, τό, the prepositive article (ἄρθρον προτακτικόν), originally a demonstr. pron. (so usually in Hom.), in general corresponding to the Eng. definite article. __I. As demonstr. pron. __1. As frequently in Hom., absol., he (she, it), his (etc.): Act.17:28 (quoted from the poet Aratus). __2. Distributive, ὁ μὲν . . . ὁ δέ, the one . . . the other: 1Co.7:7, Gal.4:22; pl., Act.14:4, 17:32, Php.1:16, al.; οἱ μὲν . . . ἄλλοι δέ, Mat.16:14, Jhn.7:12; οἱ μεν̀ . . . ὁδέ, Heb.7:21, 23. __3. In narration (without ὁ μὲν preceding), ὁ δέ, but he: Mat.2:14, Mrk.1:45, Luk.8:21, Jhn.9:38, al. mult. __II. As prepositive article, the, prefixed, __1. to nouns unmodified: ὁ θεός, τὸ φῶς, etc.; to abstract nouns, ἡ σοφία, etc., to pl. nouns which indicate a class, οἱ ἀλώπεκες, foxes, Mat.8:20, al.; to an individual as representing a class, ὁ ἐργάτης, Luk.10:7; with nom. = voc. in addresses, Mat.11:26, Jhn.19:3, Jas.5:1, al.; to things which pertain to one, ἡ χεῖρ, his hand, Mrk.3:1; to names of persons well known or already mentioned; usually to names of countries (originally adjectives), ἡ Ἰουδαία, etc. __2. To modified nouns: with of person(s) pron. genitive, μοῦ, σοῦ, etc.; with poss. pron., ἐμός, σός, etc.; with adj. between the art. and the noun, ὁ ἀγαθὸς ἄνθρωπος, Mat.12:35; the noun foll, by adj., both with art., ὁ ποιμὴν ὁ καλός, Jhn.10:11 (on ὁ ὄχλος πολύς, Jhn.12:9, see M, Pr., 84); before adjectival phrases, ἡ κατ᾽ ἐκλογὴν πρόθεσις, Rom.9:11. __3. To Other parts of speech used as substantives; __(a) neuter adjectives: τ. ἀγαθόν, etc.; __(b) cardinal numerals: ὁ εἶς, οἷ δύο, etc.; __(with) participles: ὁ βαπτίζων (= ὁ Βαπτιστής, Mat.14:2), Mrk.6:14; πᾶς ὁ, with ptcp., every one who, etc.; __(d) adverbs: τὸ πέραν, τὰ νῦν, ὁ ἔσω ἄνθρωπος; __(e) infinitives: nom., τὸ θέλειν, Rom.7:18, al.; genitive, τοῦ, after adjectives, ἄξιον τοῦ πορεύεσθαι, 1Co.16:4; verbs, ἐλαχεν τοῦ θυμιᾶσαι, Luk.1:9; and frequently in a final sense, ἐξῆλθεν ὁ σπείρειν, Mat.13:3 (on the artic. inf., see Bl., §71). __4. In the neut. to sentences, phrases or single words treated as a quotation: τὸ Ἐι δύνῃ, Mrk.9:23; τὸ ἔτι ἅπαξ, Heb.12:27; τὸ ἀνέβη, Eph.4:9, al. __5. To prepositional phrases: οἱ ἀπὸ Ἰταλίας, Heb.13:24; οἱ ἐκ νόμου, Rom.4:14; neut. accusative absol., in adverbial phrases, τὸ καθ᾽ ἡμέραν, daily, Luk.11:3; τὸ κατὰ σάρκα, as regards the flesh, Rom.9:5. __6. To nouns in the genitive, denoting kinship, association, etc.: ὁ τοῦ, the son of (unless context indicates a different relationship), Mat.10:2, al.; τὰ τοῦ θεοῦ, the things that pertain to God, Mat.16:23; τὰ τῆς εἰρήνης, Rom.14:19 (cf. M, Pr., 81ff.; Bl, §§46, 47). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 7033 NT verses. KJV: the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24.

γαρ gar G1063 "for" Conj

For is a word used to explain or give a reason, often introducing a justification or clarification, as seen in Matthew 4:18 and Romans 7:1. It's a conjunction that connects ideas and provides additional information.

Definition: γάρ, co-ordinating particle, contr. of γε ἄρα, verily then, hence, in truth, indeed, yea, then, why, and when giving a reason or explanation, for, the usage in NT being in general accord with that of cl.; __1. explicative and epexegetic: Mat.4:18 19:12, Mrk.1:16 5:42 16:4, Luk.11:3o, Rom.7:1, 1Co.16:5, al. __2. Conclusive, in questions, answers and exclamations: Mat.9:5 27:23, Luk.9:25 22:27, Jhn.9:30, Act.8:31 16:37 19:35, Rom.15:26, 1Co.9:10, Php.1:18 (Ellic., in l.), 1Th.2:20, al. __3. Causal: Mat.1:21 2:2, 5, 6, 3:23, Mrk.1:22, 9:6, Luk.1:15, 18, Jhn.2:25, Act.2:25, Rom.1:9, 11, 1Co.11:5, Rev.1:3, al.; giving the reason for a command or prohibition, Mat.2:20 3:9, Rom.13:11, Col.3:3, 1Th.4:3, al.; where the cause is contained in an interrog. statement, Luk.22:27, Rom.3:3 4:3, 1Co.10:29; καὶ γάρ, for also, Mrk.10:45, Luk.6:32, 1Co.5:7, al. id. as in cl. = etenim, where the καί loses its connective force (Bl., §78, 6; Kühner 3, ii, 854f.), Mrk.14:70, Luk.1:66 22:37, 2Co.13:4. The proper place of γάρ is after the first word in a clause, but in poets it often comes third or fourth, and so in late prose: 2Co.1:19. Yet "not the number but the nature of the word after which it stands is the point to be noticed" (see Thayer, see word). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1011 NT verses. KJV: and, as, because (that), but, even, for, indeed, no doubt, seeing, then, therefore, verily, what, why, yet See also: 1 Corinthians 1:11; 1 John 2:19; 1 Peter 2:19.

οπλα hoplon G3696 "weapon" Noun-NPN

This word refers to a tool or instrument, often used for war or fighting, as seen in John 18:3 and 2 Corinthians 10:4. It can also be used metaphorically, like in Romans 13:12. In the Bible, it is often translated as 'armour' or 'weapon'.

Definition: ὅπλον, -ου, τό [in LXX for מָגֵן, צִנָּה, etc. ;] __1. a tool, implement, instrument: ὅπλα ἀδικίας (Opp. to ὅ. δικαιοσύνης), Rom.6:13. __2. Freq., in pl., arms, weapons: Jhn.18:3, 2Co.10:4; metaphorically, τ. φωτός, Rom.13:12; τ. δικαιοσύνης, 2Co.6:7.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 5 NT verses. KJV: armour, instrument, weapon See also: 2 Corinthians 6:7; John 18:3; Romans 6:13.

της ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-GSF

The Greek word for 'the' or 'this', used to point out a specific person or thing, like in Acts 17:28. It can also mean 'he', 'she', or 'it'.

Usage: Occurs in 7033 NT verses. KJV: the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24.

στρατειας strateia G4752 "warfare" Noun-GSF

Warfare refers to a period of military conflict or struggle, like the spiritual battles faced by the apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 10:4 and 1 Timothy 1:18. It requires endurance and perseverance.

Definition: στρατεία (on the orthogr., see Deiss., BS, 181 f.), -ας, ἡ (οτρατεύω), [in LXX chiefly for צָבָא ;] an expedition, a campaign, warfare: metaphorically, 2Co.10:4 (-τιά, T), 1Ti.1:18.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 2 NT verses. KJV: warfare See also: 1 Timothy 1:18; 2 Corinthians 10:4.

ημων egō G1473 "I/we" Pron-1GP

This is a pronoun meaning I or me, used by the speaker to refer to themselves. It is often used in the Bible to emphasize the speaker's identity.

Definition: ἐγώ, genitive, etc., ἐμοῦ, ἐμοί, ἐμέ (enclitic μου, μοι, με), pl. ἡμεῖς, -ῶν, -ῖν, -ᾶς, of person(s) pron. I. __(a) The nom. is usually emphatic, when expressed as subjc, as in Mat.3:11, Mrk.1:8, Luk.3:16, al. But often there is no apparent emphasis, as Mat.10:16, Jhn.10:17; ἰδοὺ ἐ. (= Heb. הִנֵּנִי, cf. 1Ki.3:8), Act.9:10; ἐ. (like Heb. אֲנִי), I am, Jhn.1:23 (LXX), Act.7:32 (LXX). __(b) The enclitic forms (see supr.) are used with nouns, adjectives, verbs, adverbs, where there is no emphasis: ἐν τ. πατρί μου, Jhn.14:20; μου τ. λόγους, Mat.7:24; ὀπίσω μου, Mat.3:11; ἰσχυρότερός μου, ib.; λέγει μοι, Rev.5:5; also with the prep. πρός, as Mrk.9:19, al. The full forms (ἐμοῦ, etc.) are used with the other prepositions, as δι᾽ ἐμοῦ, ἐν ἐμοί, εἰς ἐμέ, etc., also for emphasis, as Luk.10:16, Jhn.7:23, Mrk.14:7, al. __(with) The genitive μου and ἡμῶν are often used for the poss. pronouns ἐμός, ἡμέτερος: τ. λαόν μου, Mat.2:6; μου τῂ ἀπιστιᾳ, Mrk.9:24. __(d) τί ἐμοὶ καὶ σοί ( = Heb. מַה־לִי וָלָךְ, Jdg.11:12, al.), i.e. what have we in common: Mat.8:29, Mrk.1:24, 5:7, Luk.8:28, Jhn.2:4; τί γάρ μοι, 1Co.5:2. __(e) The interchange of ἐγώ and ἡμεῖς, common in π., appears in Pauline Epp. (see M, Pr., 86f., M, Th., 131f.). __(f) κἀγώ (= καὶ ἐγώ), and I, even I, I also: Mat.2:8, Luk.2:48, Jhn.6:56, Rom.3:7, 1Co.7:40, al.; κἀγώ . . . καί, both . . . and, Jhn.7:28. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1872 NT verses. KJV: I, me See also: 1 Corinthians 1:2; 1 Corinthians 16:24; 1 Peter 1:3.

ου ou G3756 "no" Particle-N

This is a strong 'no', used to deny something completely. It appears in the New Testament, such as in Matthew 13:29 and John 1:21. It is a negative answer to a question.

Definition: οὐ, before a vowel with smooth breathing οὐκ, before one with rough breathing οὐχ (but improperly οὐχ ἰδού, Act.2:7, WH, mg.; cf. WH, Intr., §409; M, Pr., 44, 244), [in LXX for אֵין ,אַיִן ,לֹא ;] neg. particle, not, no, used generally with indic, and for a denial of fact (cf . μή); __1. absol. (accented), οὔ, no: Mat.13:29 Jhn.1:21 21:5; οὒ οὕ, Mat.5:37 Jas.5:12. __2. Most frequently negativing a verb or other word, Mat.1:25 10:26, 38, Mrk.3:25 9:37, Jhn.8:29, Act.7:5, Rom.1:16, Php.3:3, al.; in litotes, οὐκ ὀλίγοι (i.e. very many), Act.17:4, al.; οὐκ ἄσημος, Act.21:39; πᾶς . . . οὐ, with verb, (like Heb. כֹּל . . . לֹא), no, none, Mat.24:22, Mrk.13:20, Luk.1:37, Eph.5:5, al.; in disjunctive statements, οὐκ . . . ἀλλά, Luk.8:52 Jhn.1:33 Rom.8:2o, al.; with 2 of person(s) fut. (like Heb. לֹא, with impf.), as emphatic prohibition, Mat.4:7, Luk.4:12, Rom.7:7, al. __3. With another negative, __(a) strengthening the negation: Mrk.5:37, Jhn.8:15 12:19, Act.8:39, al.; __(b) making an affirmative: Act.4:20, 1Co.12:15. __4. With other particles: οὐ μή (see: μή); οὐ μηκέτι, Mat.21:19; with μή interrog., Rom.10:18, 1Co.9:4, 5 11:22. __5. Interrogative, expecting an affirmative answer (Lat. nonne): Mat.6:26, Mrk.4:21, Luk.11:40, Jhn.4:35, Rom.9:21, al. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1410 NT verses. KJV: + long, nay, neither, never, no (X man), none, (can-)not, + nothing, + special, un(-worthy), when, + without, + yet but See also: 1 Corinthians 1:16; 1 Corinthians 15:32; 1 Peter 1:8.

σαρκικα sarkikos G4559 "fleshly" Adj-NPN

Fleshly refers to something related to the body or its desires, as seen in Romans 15:27 and 1 Corinthians 9:11, where it describes worldly or carnal things.

Definition: σαρκικός, -ή, -όν (σάρξ) (seel. for σάρκινος, Arist., H.A., x, 2, 7) = Lat. carnalis, i.e. __(a) associated with or pertaining to the flesh, fleshly, carnal: Rom.15:27, 1Co.9:11; __(b) in a more ethical sense, of the nature of the flesh, under the control of its appetites, fleshly, carnal, sensual (but including more than mere sensuality; cf. Hort, 1Pe., 133): 1Co.3:3, 2Co.1:12 10:4, 1Pe.2:11.† SYN.: σάρκινος (which see), ψυχικός; cf. Tr., Syn., §§ LXXi, LXXii; Lft., Notes, 184 f.; Vau. on Rom.7:14 (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 10 NT verses. KJV: carnal, fleshly See also: 1 Corinthians 3:1; 2 Corinthians 1:12; 1 Peter 2:11.

αλλα alla G235 "but" Conj

But is a strong opposing word, used in Matthew 5:15 and John 7:16. It shows contrast or surprise, like in the phrase 'but God' in Romans 3:31.

Definition: ἀλλά (ἀλλ᾽ usually bef. α and υ, often bef. ε and η, rarely bef. ο and ω, never bef. ι; Tdf., Pr., 93 f.; WH, App., 146), adversative particle, stronger than δέ; prop. neuter pl. of ἄλλος, used adverbially, with changed accent; hence prop. otherwise, on the other hand (cf. Rom.3:31); __1. opposing a previous negation, but: οὐ (μὴ) . . . ἀ., Mat.5:15, 17 Mrk.5:39, Jhn.7:16, al.; rhetorically subordinating but not entirely negativing what precedes, οὐ . . . ἀ., not so much . . . as, Mrk.9:37, Mat.10:20, Jhn.12:44, al.; with ellipse of the negation, Mat.11:7-9, Act.19:2, 1Co.3:6 6:11 7:7, 2Co.7:1, Gal.2:3, al.; in opposition to a foregoing pos. sentence, ἀ. οὐ, Mat.24:6, 1Co.10:23; οὐ μόνον . . . ἀ. καί, Jhn.5:18, Rom.1:32, al.; elliptically, after a negation, ἀ. ἵνα, Mrk.14:49, Jhn.1:8 9:3, al.; = εἰ μή (Bl., §77, 13; M, Pr., 241; but cf. WM, §iii, 10), Mat.20:23, Mrk.4:22. __2. Without previous negation, to express opposition, interruption, transition, etc., but: Jhn.16:20 12:27, Gal.2:14; before commands or requests, Act.10:20 26:16, Mat.9:18, Mrk.9:22, al.; to introduce an accessory idea, 2Co.7:11; in the apodosis after a condition or concession with εἰ, ἐάν, εἴπερ, yet, still, at least, Mrk.14:29, 1Co.9:2, 2Co.4:16, Col.2:5, al.; after μέν, Act.4:17, Rom.14:20, 1Co.14:17; giving emphasis to the following clause, ἀλλ᾽ ἔρχεται ὥρα, yea, etc., Jhn.16:2; so with neg., ἀλλ᾽ οὐδέ, nay, nor yet, Luk.23:15. __3. Joined with other particles (a practice which increases in late writers; Simcox, LNT, 166), ἀ. γε, yet at least, Luk.24:21, 1Co.9:2; ἄ ἤ., save only, except, Luk.12:51, 2Co.1:13; ἀ. μὲν οὖν, Php.3:8 (on this usage, see MM, VGT, see word). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 603 NT verses. KJV: and, but (even), howbeit, indeed, nay, nevertheless, no, notwithstanding, save, therefore, yea, yet See also: 1 Corinthians 1:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:9; 1 Peter 1:15.

δυνατα dunatos G1415 "able" Adj-NPN

Able or powerful refers to someone or something with great strength or capability, as seen in Luke 1:49 and Romans 15:1. This term can describe physical or spiritual power, and is often used to express ability or possibility.

Definition: δυνατός, -ή, -όν (δύναμαι), [in LXX for גִּבּוֹר, חַיִל, etc. ;] __1. strong, mighty, powerful: absol., Luk.1:49, 1 Col.1:26; οἱ δ., the chief men, Act.25:5 ; of spiritual strength, Rom.15:1, 2Co.12:10 13:9; before ἐν, Luk.24:19, Act.7:22 18:24; πρός, 2Co.10:4. __2. C. inf., able to do; Luk.14:31, Act.11:17, Rom.4:21 11:23, 2Ti.1:12, Tit.1:9, Heb.11:19, Jas.3:2. __3. Neut., δυνατόν, possible: Mat.19:26, Mrk.9:23 10:27 14:36, Luk.18:27, Act.2:24 20:16; εἰ δ. (ἐστι), Mat.24:24 26:30, Mrk.13:22 14:35, Rom.12:18, Gal.4:15; τὸ δ. (= ἡ δύναμις) αὐτοῦ, Rom.9:22.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 36 NT verses. KJV: able, could, (that is) mighty (man), possible, power, strong See also: 1 Corinthians 1:26; Luke 18:27; Hebrews 11:19.

τω ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-DSM

The Greek word for 'the' or 'this', used to point out a specific person or thing, like in Acts 17:28. It can also mean 'he', 'she', or 'it'.

Usage: Occurs in 7033 NT verses. KJV: the, this, that, one, he, she, it, etc See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Corinthians 7:16; 1 Corinthians 11:24.

θεω theos G2316 "God" Noun-DSM

This word simply means God, referring to the one true deity. It is used throughout the New Testament, including in Matthew 27:46 and Acts 14:11, to describe the supreme being and creator of the universe.

Definition: θεός, -οῦ, ὁ, ἡ (Act.19:37 only; see M, Pr., 60, 244), late voc., θεέ (Mat.27:46; cf. Deu.3:24, al.), [in LXX chiefly for אֱלֹהִים, also for אֵל and other cognate forms, יהוה, etc. ;] a god or deity, God. __1. In polytheistic sense, a god or deity: Act.28:6, 1Co.8:4, 2Th.2:4, al.; pl., Ac. 14:11 19:26, Gal.4:8, al. __2. Of the one true God; __(a) anarthrous: Mat.6:24, Luk.20:38, al.; esp. with prep. (Kühner 3, iii, 605), ἀπὸ θ., Jhn.3:2; ἐκ, Act.5:39, 2Co.5:1, Php.3:9; ὑπό, Rom.13:1; παρὰ θεοῦ, Jhn.1:6; παρὰ θεῷ, 2Th.1:6, 1Pe.2:4; κατὰ θεόν, Rom.8:27, 2Co.7:9, 10; also when in genitive dependent on an anarth. noun (Bl., §46, 6), Mat.27:43, Luk.3:2, Rom.1:17, 1Th.2:13; as pred., Lk 20:38, Jhn.1:1, and when the nature and character rather than the person of God is meant, Act.5:29, Gal.2:6, al. (M, Th., 14); __(b) more freq., with art.: Mat.1:23, Mrk.2:7, al. mult.; with prep., ἀπὸ τ. θ., Luk.1:26; ἐκ, Jhn.8:42, al.; παρὰ τοῦ θ., Jhn.8:40; π. τῷ θ., Rom.9:14; ἐν, Col.3:3; ἐπὶ τῷ θ., Luk.1:47; ἐπὶ τὸν θ., Act.15:19; εἰς τ. θ., Act.24:15; πρὸς τ. θ., Jhn.1:2; with genitive of person(s), Mat.22:32, Mrk.12:26, 27, Luk.20:37, Jhn.20:17, al.; ὁ θ. μου, Rom.1:8, Php 1:3, al.; ὁ θ. καὶ πατήρ κ. τ. λ., Rom.15:6, Eph.1:3, Phi 4:20, al.; with genitive of thing(s), Rom.15:5, 13, 33, 2Co.1:3, 1Th.5:23; τὰ τ. θεοῦ, Mat.16:23, Mrk.12:17, 1Co.2:11; τὰ πρὸς τὸν θ., Rom.15:17, Heb.2:17 5:1; τ. θεῷ, as a superl. (LXX, Jos.3:3), Act.7:20, 2Co.10:4; Hebraistically, of judges (Psa.81(82):6), Jhn.10:34" (LXX), 35. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1170 NT verses. KJV: X exceeding, God, god(-ly, -ward) See also: 1 Corinthians 1:1; 1 John 4:2; 1 Peter 1:2.

προς pros G4314 "to/with" Prep

A preposition showing direction or relationship, like towards or with something, as seen in Mark 5:11 and John 18:16. This means indicating movement or direction. It's about showing proximity or connection.

Definition: πρός, prep. with genitive, dative, accusative __I. I. C. genitive, of motion from a place, from the side of, hence metaphorically, in the interests of, Act.27:34 (cf. Page, in l.). __II. II. C. dative, of local proximity, hard by, near, at: Mrk.5:11, Luk.19:37, Jhn.18:16 20:11, 12 Rev.1:13. __III. C. accusative, of motion or direction towards a place or object, to, towards. __1. Of place, __(a) after verbs of motion or of speaking and other words with the idea of direction: ἔρχομαι, ἀναβαίνω, πορεύομαι, λέγω, ἐπιστολή, etc., Mat.3:14, Mrk.6:51, Luk.11:5, Jhn.2:3, Act.9:2, al. mult.; metaphorically, of mental direction, hostile or otherwise, Luk.23:12, Jhn.6:52, 2Co.7:4, Eph.6:12, Col.3:13, al.; of the issue or end, Luk.14:32, Jhn.11:4, al.; of purpose, Mat.26:12, Rom.3:26, 1Co.6:5, al.; πρὸς τό, with inf., denoting purpose (cf. M, Pr., 218, 220; Lft., Notes, 131), Mat.5:28, Mrk.13:22, Eph.6:11, 1Th.2:9, al.; __(b) of close proximity, at, by, with: Mat.3:10, Mrk.11:4, Luk.4:11, Act.3:2, al.; after εἶναι, Mat.13:56, Mrk.6:3, Jhn.1:1, al. __2. 2. Of time, __(a) towards (Plat., Xen., LXX: Gen.8:11, al.): Luk.24:29; __(b) for: πρὸς καιρόν, Luk.8:13, 1Co.7:5; πρὸς ὥραν, Jhn.5:35, al.; πρὸς ὀλίγον, Jas.4:14. __3. Of relation __(a) toward, with: Rom.5:1, 2Co.1:12, Col.4:5, 1Th.4:12, al.; __(b) with regard to: Mat.19:8, Mrk.12:12, Rom.8:31, al.; __(with) pertaining to, to: Mat.27:4, Jhn.21:22, Rom.15:17, Heb.2:17 5:1; __(d) according to: Luk.12:47, 2Co.5:10, Gal.2:14, Eph.3:4 4:14; __(e) in comparison with: Rom.8:18. __IV. In composition: towards (προσέρχομαι), to (προσάγω), against (προσκόπτω), besides (προσδαπανάω) . (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 655 NT verses. KJV: about, according to , against, among, at, because of, before, between, (where-)by, for, X at thy house, in, for intent, nigh unto, of, which pertain to, that, to (the end that), X together, to (you) -ward, unto, with(-in) See also: 1 Corinthians 2:1; Acts 2:47; 1 Peter 2:4.

καθαιρεσιν kathairesis G2506 "destruction" Noun-ASF

In the Bible, this word means destruction, like demolishing a building. It's used in 2 Corinthians to describe spiritual strongholds being torn down. This idea is opposite of building something up.

Definition: καθ-αίρεσις, -εως, ἡ (καθαιρέω), [in LXX: Exo.23:24 (הָרַס), 1Ma.3:43 * ;] a pulling down, destruction: figuratively, κ. ὀχυρωμάτων, 2Co.10:4; opposite to οἰκοδομή, 2Co.10:8 13:10.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 3 NT verses. KJV: destruction, pulling down See also: 2 Corinthians 10:4; 2 Corinthians 10:8; 2 Corinthians 13:10.

οχυρωματων ochurōma G3794 "stronghold" Noun-GPN

A stronghold is a fortress or castle, like in 2 Corinthians 10:4 where it refers to a place of confidence. It is a secure or fortified place.

Definition: ὀχύρωμα, -τος, τό (ὀχυρόω, to fortify, make firm), [in LXX for מִבְצָר, etc. ;] a stronghold, fortress (Psa.89:40, Nam.3:12, 14 al.); in LXX and NT, also metaphorically of that in which confidence is placed (Pro.10:29 21:22, al.): 2Co.10:4.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1 NT verses. KJV: stronghold See also: 2 Corinthians 10:4.

Study Notes — 2 Corinthians 10:4

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
2 Corinthians 10:4 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on 2 Corinthians 10:4
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Corinthians 10:4
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 10:4
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 10:4
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 10:4
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 10:4
Cambridge Bible on 2 Corinthians 10:4
Barnes' Notes on 2 Corinthians 10:4
Whedon's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 10:4
Sermons on 2 Corinthians 10:4

Context — Paul’s Apostolic Authority

2I beg you that when I come I may not need to be as bold as I expect toward those who presume that we live according to the flesh. 3For though we live in the flesh, we do not wage war according to the flesh.

4The weapons of our warfare are not the weapons of the flesh. Instead, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.

5We demolish arguments and every presumption set up against the knowledge of God; and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ. 6And we will be ready to punish every act of disobedience, as soon as your obedience is complete.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	2 Corinthians 6:7	in truthful speech and in the power of God; with the weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left;
2	Ephesians 6:13–18	Therefore take up the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you will be able to stand your ground, and having done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness arrayed, and with your feet fitted with the readiness of the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times, with every kind of prayer and petition. To this end, stay alert with all perseverance in your prayers for all the saints.
3	Jeremiah 1:10	See, I have appointed you today over nations and kingdoms to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and plant.”
4	1 Corinthians 2:5	so that your faith would not rest on men’s wisdom, but on God’s power.
5	1 Samuel 17:45–50	But David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD of Hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the LORD will deliver you into my hand. This day I will strike you down, cut off your head, and give the carcasses of the Philistines to the birds of the air and the creatures of the earth. Then the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. And all those assembled here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD’s, and He will give all of you into our hands.” As the Philistine started forward to attack him, David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet him. Then David reached into his bag, took out a stone, and slung it, striking the Philistine on the forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell facedown on the ground. Thus David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone; without a sword in his hand he struck down the Philistine and killed him.
6	1 Timothy 1:18	Timothy, my child, I entrust you with this command in keeping with the previous prophecies about you, so that by them you may fight the good fight,
7	2 Corinthians 13:3–4	since you are demanding proof that Christ is speaking through me. He is not weak in dealing with you, but is powerful among you. For He was indeed crucified in weakness, yet He lives by God’s power. And though we are weak in Him, yet by God’s power we will live with Him to serve you.
8	Zechariah 4:6–7	So he said to me, “This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the LORD of Hosts. What are you, O great mountain? Before Zerubbabel you will become a plain. Then he will bring forth the capstone accompanied by shouts of ‘Grace, grace to it!’”
9	Romans 13:12	The night is nearly over; the day has drawn near. So let us lay aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.
10	1 Thessalonians 5:8	But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and the helmet of our hope of salvation.

2 Corinthians 10:4 Summary

[This verse means that as Christians, we don't fight our spiritual battles with the same methods the world uses, but instead, we have access to God's divine power to overcome them, as seen in 2 Corinthians 4:7 and Ephesians 6:10. This power is able to demolish strongholds, or areas in our lives where sin, fear, or doubt have a strong hold. By trusting in God's power and living according to His Word, we can experience victory over these strongholds and live a life that is pleasing to Him (Romans 8:37, 2 Corinthians 2:14).]

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of warfare is being referred to in 2 Corinthians 10:4?

The warfare in this verse is spiritual warfare, as the Apostle Paul explains that though we live in the flesh, we do not wage war according to the flesh, but rather with divine power, as seen in Ephesians 6:12 and 2 Corinthians 10:3.

What are the strongholds that the divine power can demolish?

The strongholds refer to the spiritual fortresses of arguments and presumptions set up against the knowledge of God, as mentioned in 2 Corinthians 10:5, and can also include the strongholds of sin and Satan's influence, as seen in Romans 6:16-18 and 2 Corinthians 4:4.

How can we access the divine power to demolish strongholds?

We can access the divine power through faith in Jesus Christ, as seen in Ephesians 6:10-18 and 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, and by putting on the full armor of God, as described in Ephesians 6:13-17.

What is the ultimate goal of using divine power to demolish strongholds?

The ultimate goal is to bring every thought captive to obedience to Christ, as stated in 2 Corinthians 10:5, and to live a life that is pleasing to God, as seen in 2 Corinthians 5:9 and Romans 12:1-2.

Reflection Questions

What are the strongholds in my own life that need to be demolished, and how can I apply the divine power to overcome them?
How can I distinguish between the weapons of the world and the divine power of God in my own spiritual warfare?
What are some areas in my life where I may be relying on the weapons of the world, rather than the divine power of God, and how can I shift my dependence to God?
How can I use the divine power to demolish strongholds in the lives of those around me, such as family members or friends, and what role can I play in helping them overcome their spiritual struggles?

Gill's Exposition on 2 Corinthians 10:4

For the weapons of our warfare,.... By "warfare" is here meant, not that which is common to all believers, who are enlisted as volunteers under the captain of their salvation, and fight his battles,

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Corinthians 10:4

(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Confutation of those who propagate their creed by persecution (cf. Luke 9:54-56). Carnal.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 10:4

As our end is spiritual, so are our means; the means by which we manage our spiritual fight are spiritual. Whether by these weapons he meaneth the word of God, and his preaching the gospel, or the censures of the church duly administered, it is true, they are not of a carnal nature, or fitted to the subduing of men’ s bodies, and bringing them into subjection; they are of a spiritual nature, and have their effects upon the mind and inward part of a man; yet, through the concurrence of Divine grace, there is in them a mighty force and power, to pull down strong holds: by which metaphorical expression he understands whatsoever opposeth the gospel, and seemeth to defend and uphold men in their sinful courses; subduing the will of man, which is so strong a hold that all the power of hell cannot storm it.

Trapp's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 10:4

4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Ver. 4. Are not carnal] i.e. Weak, opposed here to mighty. The flesh is weak as water, therefore called the old man, old leaven, &c. These weak weapons of the false apostles (here intimated and taxed) are human eloquence, artificial composures, &c., of those verbalists, Qui exceptis verbis tinnulis et emendicatis nihil loquuntur, as Jerome hath it. But mighty through God] Note here the apostle’ s modesty. Not we, saith he, but our weapons are mighty; and not through us that wield them, but through God that works by and with them. To the pulling down of strong holds] Forts, munitions, trenches, cages of foul spirits inhabiting men’ s hearts.

Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 10:4

(4) For the weapons of our warfare . . .—We learn from the earlier words of 1 Thessalonians 5:8, yet more from the later ones of Eph 6:11-16, what these were—the energies of spiritual powers given by the Eternal Spirit. To the pulling down of strong holds.—The phrase is essentially military, used in the LXX. for the capture and destruction of fortresses (Lamentations 2:2; Proverbs 21:22); “casting down the strength” (1Ma 5:65); “pulled down the fortress” (8:10). He speaks as if leading an attack on the strong defences of the powers of evil, possibly thinking of the great system of idolatry and impurity enthroned at Corinth and throughout the Empire, possibly of those of pride and obstinate rebellion in the hearts of his individual opponents. The context favours the latter interpretation. It has been suggested (Stanley, in loc.) that the Apostle’s language may have been coloured by national memories of the wars against the Cilicians carried on by Pompeius, which ended in the reduction of one hundred and twenty fortresses and the capture of more than 10,000 prisoners.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 10:4

Verse 4. The weapons of our warfare] The apostle often uses the metaphor of a warfare to represent the life and trials of a Christian minister. See Ephesians 6:10-17; 1 Timothy 1:18; 2 Timothy 2:3-5. Are not carnal] Here he refers to the means used by the false apostle in order to secure his party; he calumniated St. Paul, traduced the truth, preached false and licentious doctrines, and supported these with sophistical reasonings. But mighty through God] Our doctrines are true and pure, they come from God and lead to him, and he accompanies them with his mighty power to the hearts of those who hear them; and the strong holds-the apparently solid and cogent reasoning of the philosophers, we, by these doctrines, pull down; and thus the fortifications of heathenism are destroyed, and the cause of Christ triumphs wherever we come; and we put to flight the armies of the aliens.

Cambridge Bible on 2 Corinthians 10:4

4. carnal] See note on 2 Corinthians 10:2. Also on 1 Corinthians 3:1.mighty through God] Either (1) as in the text, or (2) mighty to God, i.e. in His sight, or (3) mighty for God, i.e. on behalf of Him, or perhaps (4) an Hebraistic construction, like the one in Acts 7:20, where it is equal to exceeding, just as Nineveh is called ‘a great city of God’ (Jonah 3:3 and notes).strong holds] or fortifications, from a Greek word signifying to fortify.

Barnes' Notes on 2 Corinthians 10:4

For the weapons of our warfare - The means by which we hope to achieve our victory. Are not carnal - Not those of the flesh. Not such as the people of the world use.

Whedon's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 10:4

4. Carnal—Such as are used in secular and bodily wars. They are neither wood, nor iron, nor brass; neither shield, nor sword, nor spear. But mighty—Let not the opposer triumph because these weapons are of no human armory.

Sermons on 2 Corinthians 10:4

	Sermon	Description
	(Israel) Preaching Christ With Authority by David Wilkerson	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of preaching the word of God with spiritual authority. He shares a personal experience of a young man who came seeking wisdom
	Deliverance to the Captives by Smith Wigglesworth	In this sermon, the preacher shares a personal experience of encountering a man who was distressed and believed he had committed the unpardonable sin. Through the guidance of the H
	Fresh Faith Book Reading Clip by Jim Cymbala	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the diabolical work of Satan, who has no sympathy and seeks to rip people off every week. However, Jesus came to offer abundant life and can
	Satan's Final War Plan Exposed by David Wilkerson	This sermon emphasizes the importance of spiritual warfare and the need for believers to be vigilant against the devil's schemes. It highlights the strategy of the enemy to target
	What Is Your Life by Leonard Ravenhill	This sermon reflects on the hymn sung, acknowledging the millions still without God and the hope of a future gathering in heaven. It emphasizes enduring trials with God's guidance,
	(Om Orientation) Our Weapons Prayer - Part 1 by George Verwer	George Verwer emphasizes the power of prayer as a vital weapon in spiritual warfare, urging believers to engage deeply in personal and communal prayer. He recounts the story of a d
	(Clip) the Word of God and Prayer for Victory by Milton Green	This sermon emphasizes the believer's identity in Christ, highlighting being righteous, blessed, redeemed, complete, and seated in heavenly places. It focuses on the authority, pow