2 Corinthians 4:17

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2 Corinthians 4:17 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison.

King James Version KJV

For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;

American Standard Version ASV

For our light affliction, which is for the moment, worketh for us more and more exceedingly an eternal weight of glory;

Bible in Basic English BBE

For our present trouble, which is only for a short time, is working out for us a much greater weight of glory;

Free Bible Version FBV

These trivial troubles we have only last for a little while, but they produce for us an ever-increasing degree of glory.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

For our light affliction which is but for a moment, causeth vnto vs a farre most excellent and an eternall waight of glorie:

Young's Literal Translation YLT

for the momentary light matter of our tribulation, more and more exceedingly an age-during weight of glory doth work out for us —

World English Bible WEB

For our light affliction, which is for the moment, works for us more and more exceedingly an eternal weight of glory,

Noah Webster Bible WBS

For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh out for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

For that which is at present momentary and light of our tribulation, worketh for us above measure exceedingly an eternal weight of glory.

Translation for Translators T4T

I know that all these troubles that happen to us in this life are not significant and will not last forever. When we think of the glorious things that God is preparing for us to enjoy forever in heaven, all our suffering now is not important.

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Berean Amplified Bible — 2 Corinthians 4:17

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Word Study

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2 Corinthians 4:17 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

GRK το γαρ παραυτικα ελαφρον της θλιψεως ημων καθ υπερβολην εις υπερβολην αιωνιον βαρος δοξης κατεργαζεται ημιν

το ho G3588 the/this/who Art-NSN

γαρ gar G1063 for Conj

παραυτικα parautika G3910 momentary Adv

ελαφρον elaphros G1645 light Adj-NSN

της ho G3588 the/this/who Art-GSF

θλιψεως thlipsis G2347 pressure Noun-GSF

ημων egō G1473 I/we Pron-1GP

καθ kata G2596 according to Prep

υπερβολην huperbolē G5236 surpassing Noun-ASF

εις eis G1519 toward Prep

υπερβολην huperbolē G5236 surpassing Noun-ASF

αιωνιον aiōnios G166 eternal Adj-ASN

βαρος baros G922 burden Noun-ASN

δοξης doxa G1391 glory Noun-GSF

κατεργαζεται katergazomai G2716 to workout/produce Verb-PNI-3S

ημιν egō G1473 I/we Pron-1DP

Greek Word Study

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Greek Word Reference — 2 Corinthians 4:17

το ho G3588 "the/this/who" Art-NSN

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.

παραυτικα parautika G3910 "momentary" Adv

This word means something that happens immediately or is momentary, like in 2 Corinthians 4:17 where Paul describes the brief duration of earthly troubles. It emphasizes the shortness of a moment or event.

Definition: παρ-αυτίκα adv. (πάραυτα = παρ ̓ αὐτά, sc. τὰ πράγματα) [in LXX: Psa.70:3, Tob.4:14 * ;] __1. immediately. __2. C. subst., to express brief duration (cf. ἡ π. λαμπρότης, Thuc., ii, 64), momentary, for a moment: 2Co.4:17.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1 NT verses. KJV: but for a moment See also: 2 Corinthians 4:17.

ελαφρον elaphros G1645 "light" Adj-NSN

Something that is easy to carry or bear, as seen in Matthew 11:30. This word means light or easy, and is used to describe a burden that is not heavy or difficult.

Definition: ἐλαφρός, -ά, -όν [in LXX chiefly for קַל, קָלָל ;] light in weight easy to bear: Mat.11:30; θλίψρις (EV, our light affliction), 2Co.4:17.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 2 NT verses. KJV: light See also: 2 Corinthians 4:17; Matthew 11:30.

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.

θλιψεως thlipsis G2347 "pressure" Noun-GSF

Pressure or tribulation, like the affliction Jesus talks about in Matthew 24:9. It can also mean distress, as in 2 Corinthians 1:4, where God comforts us in our troubles.

Definition: θλίψις (LTr., θλῖψις), -εως, ἡ (θλίβω), [in LXX for צָרָה, etc. ;] pressure (Arist.). In LXX and NT metaphorically, tribulation, affliction, distress: Mat.24:9, 21 24:29, Mrk.13:19, 24, Jhn.16:21, Act.7:11 11:19, Rom.12:12, 2Co.1:4 1:8 4:17 6:4 7:4 8:2 8:13, Php.4:14, 2Th.1:6, Jas.1:27, Rev.1:9 2:9, 22 7:14; with ἀνάγκη (which see), 1Th.3:7; στενοχωρία (which from the order of the words would appear to be the stronger term), Rom.2:9 8:35; διωγμός, Mat.13:21, Mrk.4:17, 2Th.1:4; θ. ἔχω, Jhn.16:33, 1Co.7:23, Rev.2:10; ἔρχεσθαι ἐπί, Act.7:11; ἐν θλίψει 1Th.1:6; pl., Act.7:10 14:22 20:28, Rom.5:3, Eph.3:13, 1Th.3:3, Heb.10:33; τ. Χριστοῦ, Col.1:24; θ. τῆς καρδίας, 2Co.2:4; θ. ἐγείρειν, Php.1:17.† SYN.: ἀνάγκη, διωγμός, στενοχωρία (see supr., and cf. Tr., Syn, iv; Lft., Notes, 45) (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 43 NT verses. KJV: afflicted(-tion), anguish, burdened, persecution, tribulation, trouble See also: 1 Corinthians 7:28; Hebrews 10:33; James 1:27.

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.

καθ kata G2596 "according to" Prep

According to means following or matching something. In the Bible, it's used to talk about things happening in line with God's plan or will, like in Matthew 8:32 and Mark 5:13.

Definition: κατά (bef. a vowel κατ᾽, καθ᾽; on the frequently neglect of elision, see Tdf., Pr., 95; WH, App., 146a), prep. with genitive, accusative, down, downwards. __I. C. genitive (WM, §47, k; Bl., §42, 2). __1. C. genitive of thing(s), in local sense; __(a) down, down from: Mat.8:32, Mrk.5:13, Luk.8:33, 1Co.11:4; __(b) throughout (late usage; Bl, l.with): κ. ὅλης κ.τ.λ., Luk.4:14 23:5, Act.9:31 10:37; __(with) in a peculiar adjectival phrase: ἡ κ. βάθους, deep or extreme poverty, 2Co.8:2. __ __2. C. genitive of person(s), usually in hostile sense; __(a) against (in cl. only after verbs of speaking, witnessing, etc.): opposite to ὑπέρ, Mrk.9:40; μετά, Mat.12:30; after ἐπιθυμεῖν, Gal.5:17; λαλεῖν, Act.6:13; διδάσκειν, Act.21:28; ψεύδεσθαι, Jas.3:14; after verbs of accusing, etc., Mat.5:23, Luk.23:14, Rom.8:33, al.; verbs of fighting, prevailing, etc., Mat.10:35, Act.14:2, 1Co.4:6, al.; __(b) of swearing, by: όμνυμι κ. (BL, §34, 1), He 6:13,16, cf. Mat.26:63. __II. C. accusative (WM, §49d; BL, §42, 2). __1. Of motion or direction; __(a) through, throughout: Luk.8:39 9:6 10:4, Act.8:1, 36 al.; __(b) to, towards, over against: Luk.10:32 (Field, Notes, 62), Act.2:1o 16:7, Gal.2:11, Php.3:14, al.; __ __(with) in adverbial phrases, at, in, by, of: κατ᾽ οἶκον, at home, Act.2:46; κατ᾽ ἰδίαν (see: ἴδιος); καθ᾽ ἑαυτόν, Act.28:16, Rom.14:22, Jas.2:17; with pron. of person(s), Act.17:28 18:15, Rom.1:15, Eph.1:15, al. __2. Of time, at, during, about: Act.8:26 12:1 19:23, Rom.9:9 Heb.1:10, al. __3. Distributive; __(a) of place: κ. τόποὐς, Mat.24:7, al.; κ. πόλιν, Luk.8:1, 4 al.; κ. ἐκκλησίαν, Act.14:23. __(b) of time: κ. ἔτος, Luk.2:41; ἑορτήν, Mat.27:15, al.; __(with) of numbers, etc.: καθ᾽ ἕνα πάντες, 1Co.14:31 (on καθ᾽ εἷς, see: εἷς); κ. ἑκατόν, Mrk.6:40; κ. μέρος, Heb.9:5; κ. ὄνομα, Jhn.10:3. __4. Of fitness, reference, conformity, etc.; __(a) in relation to, concerning: Rom.1:3, 4 7:22 9:3, 5, 1Co.12:6 10:18, Php.1:12; κ. πάντα, Act.17:22, Col.3:20, 22 Heb.2:17 4:15; __(b) according to, after, like: Mrk.7:5, Luk.2:27, 29 Jhn.7:24 Rom.8:4 14:15, Eph.2:2, Col.2:8, Jas.2:8, al. __III. In composition, κ. denotes, __1. down, down from (καταβαίνω), etc.), hence, metaphorically; __(a) victory or rule over (καταδουλόω, -κυριεύω, etc.); __(b) "perfective" action (M, Pr., 111ff.). __2. under (κατακαλύπτω), etc.). __3. in succession (καθεξῆς). __4. after, behind (καταλείπω). __5. Hostility, against (καταλαλέω). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 435 NT verses. KJV: about, according as (to), after, against, (when they were) X alone, among, and, X apart, (even, like) as (concerning, pertaining to touching), X aside, at, before, beyond, by, to the charge of, (charita-)bly, concerning, + covered, (dai-)ly, down, every, (+ far more) exceeding, X more excellent, for, from … to, godly, in(-asmuch, divers, every, -to, respect of), … by, after the manner of, + by any means, beyond (out of) measure, X mightily, more, X natural, of (up-)on (X part), out (of every), over against, (+ your) X own, + particularly, so, through(-oughout, -oughout every), thus, (un-)to(-gether, -ward), X uttermost, where(-by), with See also: 1 Corinthians 1:26; Acts 10:37; 1 Peter 1:2.

υπερβολην huperbolē G5236 "surpassing" Noun-ASF

This word is about something being superior or excellent. It's used in 2 Corinthians 4:7 and Romans 7:13 to describe God's power and grace. It's about something being beyond measure.

Definition: ὑπερ-βολή, -ῆς, ἡ (ὑπερβάλλω), [in LXX: καθ᾽ ὑ., 4Ma.3:18 * ;] a throwing beyond. Metaphorical, excess, superiority, excellence: 2Co.4:7 12:7; καθ᾽ ὑπερβολήν, beyond measure, exceedingly, Rom.7:13, 1Co.12:31, 2Co.1:8, Gal.1:13; κ. ὑ. εἰς ὑ., beyond all measure, 2Co.4:17.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 7 NT verses. KJV: abundance, (far more) exceeding, excellency, more excellent, beyond (out of) measure See also: 1 Corinthians 12:31; 2 Corinthians 4:17; Romans 7:13.

εις eis G1519 "toward" Prep

This word means toward or into, indicating direction or purpose, as seen in Matthew 8:23 and Mark 1:45. It can also imply a sense of movement or action. The KJV translates it in various ways.

Definition: εἰς, prep. with accusative, expressing entrance, direction, limit, into, unto, to, upon, towards, for, among (Lat. in, with accusative). __I. Of place. __1. After verbs of motion; __(a) of entrance into: Mat.8:23, 9:7, Mrk.1:45, Luk.2:15, 8:31, al.; __(b) of approach, to or towards: Mrk.11:1, Luk.6:8, 19:28, Jhn.11:31, 21:6, al.; __(with) before pl. and collective nouns, among: Mrk.4:7, 8:19, 20, Luk.11:49, Jhn.21:23, al.; __(d) Of a limit reached, unto, on, upon: Mat.8:18, 21:1, Mrk.11:1, 13:16, Luk.14:10, Jhn.6:3, 11:32, al.; with accusative of person(s) (as in Ep. and Ion.), Act.23:15, Rom.5:12, 16:19, 2Co.10:14; __(e) elliptical: ἐπιστολαὶ εἰς Δαμασκόν, Act.9:2; ἡ διακονία μου ἡ εἰς Ἱ., Rom.15:31; metaphorically, of entrance into a certain state or condition, or of approach or direction towards some end (Thayer, B, i, 1; ii, 1), εἰς τ. ὄνομα, M, Pr., 200. __2. Of direction; __(a) after verbs of seeing: Mat.6:26, Mrk.6:41, Luk.9:16, 62, Jhn.13:22, al.; metaphorically, of the mind, Heb.11:26, 12:2, al.; __(b) after verbs of speaking: Mat.13:10, 14:9, 1Th.2:9, al. __3. After verbs of rest; __(a) in "pregnant" construction, implying previous motion (cl.; see WM, 516; Bl., §39, 3; M, Pr., 234f.): Mat.2:23, 4:13, 2Th.2:4, 2Ti.1:11, Heb.11:9, al.; __(b) by an assimilation general in late Gk (see Bl., M, Pr., ll. with) = ἐν: Luk.1:44, 4:23, Act.20:16, 21:17, Jhn.1:18 (but see Westc, in l.), al. __II. Of time, for, unto; __1. accentuating the duration expressed by the accusative: εἰς τ. αἰῶνα, Mat.21:19; εἰς γενεὰς καὶ γ., Luk.1:50; εἰς τ. διηνεκές, Heb.7:3, al. __2. Of a point or limit of time, unto, up to, until: Mat.6:34, Act.4:3, 25:21, Php.1:10, 2:16, 1Th.4:15, 2Ti.1:12; of entrance into a future period, σεις τὸ μέλλον (see: μέλλω), next (year), Luk.13:9 (but with ICC, in l.); εἰς τ. μεταξὺ σάββατον, on the next Sabbath, Act.13:42; εἰς τὸ πάλιν (see: πάλιν, 2Co.13:2. __III. Of result, after verbs of changing, joining, dividing, etc.: στρέφειν εἰς, Rev.11:6; μετας-, Act.2:20, Jas.4:9; μεταλλάσσειν, Rom.1:26; σχίζειν εἰς δύο, Mat.27:51, al.; predicatively with εἴναι, Act.8:23. __IV. Of relation, to, towards, for, in regard to (so in cl., but more frequently in late Gk., εἰς encroaching on the simple dative, which it has wholly displaced in MGr.; Jannaris, Gr., §1541; Robertson, Gr., 594; Deiss., BS, 117f.): Luk.7:30, Rom.4:20, 15:2, 26, 1Co.16:1, Eph.3:16, al.; ἀγάπη εἰς, Rom.5:8, al.; χρηστός, Eph.4:32; φρονεῖν εἰς, Rom.12:16; θαρρεῖν, 2Co.10:1. __V. Of the end or object: εὔθετος εἰς, Luk.14:34; σόφος, Rom.16:19; ἰσχύειν, Mat.5:13; εἰς τοῦτο, Mrk.1:38, al.; ἀφορίζειν εἰς, Rom.1:1; indicating purpose, εἰς φόβον, Rom.8:15; εἰς ἔνδειξιν, Rom.3:25; εἰς τό, with inf. (= ἵνα or ὥστε; Bl., §71, 5; M, Pr., 218ff.): Mat.20:19, Rom.1:11, 1Co.9:18, al. __VI. Adverbial phrases: εἰς τέλος, εἰς τὸ πάλιν, etc (see: τέλος, πάλιν, etc.). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 1512 NT verses. KJV: (abundant-)ly, against, among, as, at, (back-)ward, before, by, concerning, + continual, + far more exceeding, for (intent, purpose), fore, + forth, in (among, at, unto, -so much that, -to), to the intent that, + of one mind, + never, of, (up-)on, + perish, + set at one again, (so) that, therefore(-unto), throughout, til, to (be, the end, -ward), (here-)until(-to), …ward, (where-)fore, with See also: 1 Corinthians 1:9; 1 Timothy 1:16; 1 Peter 1:2.

υπερβολην huperbolē G5236 "surpassing" Noun-ASF

This word is about something being superior or excellent. It's used in 2 Corinthians 4:7 and Romans 7:13 to describe God's power and grace. It's about something being beyond measure.

Usage: Occurs in 7 NT verses. KJV: abundance, (far more) exceeding, excellency, more excellent, beyond (out of) measure See also: 1 Corinthians 12:31; 2 Corinthians 4:17; Romans 7:13.

αιωνιον aiōnios G166 "eternal" Adj-ASN

This word means something that lasts forever, like God's love. In Romans 16:26 and 2 Timothy 1:9, it talks about eternal things that will never end.

Definition: αἰώνιος, -ον (as usual in Attic), also -α, -ον. 2Th.2:16, Heb.9:12; (αἰών), [in LXX chiefly for עוֹלָם ;] age-long, eternal, __(a) of that which is without either beginning or end: Rom.16:26, Heb.9:14; __(b) of that which is without beginning: Rom.16:25, 2Ti.1:9, Tit.1:2; __(with) of that which is without end (MM, VGT, see word): σκηναί, Luk.16:9 οἰκία, 2Co.5:1; διαθήκη, Heb.13:20; εὐαγγέλιον, Rev.14:6; παράκλησις, 2Th.2:16; λύτρωσις, Heb.9:12; κληρονομία, ib. 15; κόλασις, Mat.25:46; κρίμα, Heb.6:2; κρίσις, Mrk.3:29; ὄλεθρον, 2Th.1:9; πῦρ, Mat.18:8; frequently with ζωή, which see SYN.: ἀΐδιος, which see (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 69 NT verses. KJV: eternal, for ever, everlasting, world (began) See also: 1 John 1:2; John 5:39; 1 Peter 5:10.

βαρος baros G922 "burden" Noun-ASN

This word means a burden or weight, and is used figuratively in the New Testament to describe a load or abundance. It appears in Matthew 20:12 and Galatians 6:2. The KJV translates it as 'burden' or 'weight'.

Definition: βάρος, -εος, τό, [in LXX: Jdg.18:21 (כּבד), Jdth.7:4, Sir.13:2, 2Ma.9:10, 3Ma.5:47 * ;] weight; __(a) a weight, burden, lit. and metaphorically: Mat.20:12, Act.15:28, 2Co.4:17, Rev.2:24; ἀλλήλων τὰ β., one another's faults, Gal.6:2; ἐν β., burdensome: 1Th.2:6, R, txt., but see infr.; __(b) in late Gk. (Soph., Lex., see word), dignity, authority: ἐν βάρει, 1Th.2:6 (R, mg.; see Milligan, ICG, in l.).† SYN.: ὄγκος, an encumbrance; φορτίον, a burden, that which is borne. (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 6 NT verses. KJV: burden(-some), weight See also: 1 Thessalonians 2:6; Galatians 6:2; Revelation 2:24.

δοξης doxa G1391 "glory" Noun-GSF

This word means glory, honor, or praise, referring to the admiration and respect given to someone or something, like God's glory in Luke 14:10 and John 12:43. It's the opposite of shame or dishonor, as seen in Philippians 3:19 and 2 Corinthians 6:8. Glory is also associated with dignity and worship in Romans 2:7 and 1 Peter.

Definition: δόξα, -ης, ἡ (δοκέω), [in LXX very frequently for כָּבוֹד, also for הוֹד ,פִּפְאֶרֶת, etc., 25 words in all ;] in cl., __1. expectation, judgment, opinion (4Ma.5:18). __2. opinion, estimation in which one is held, repute; in NT, always good opinion, hence reputation, praise, honour, glory: Luk.14:10, Jhn.12:43, Heb.3:3; opposite to αἰσχύνη, Php.3:19; to ἀτιμία, 2Co.6:8; δ. κ. τιμή, Rom.2:7, 10 1Pe.1:7, 2Pe.1:17; ζητεῖν, Jhn.5:44 7:18 8:50, 1Th.2:6; λαμβάνειν, Jhn.5:41, 2Pe.1:17, Rev.5:12; διδόναι δ. τ. θεῷ (cf. נָתַן כָּבוֹד לַיהוָֹה, Jer.13:16, al.), Luk.17:18, Jhn.9:24, Act.12:23, Rom.4:20, Rev.4:9; εἰς (τ.) δ. θεοῦ, Rom.3:7 15:7, Php.1:11, al.; in doxologies, τ. θεῷ (ᾧ) ἡ δ., Luk.2:14, Rom.11:36 16:27, Gal.1:5, Eph.3:21, al. __3. Later also (not cl.) as in LXX (= הוֹד, Job.39:20, 1Ch.29:25; כָּבוֹד, Job.19:9, Est.5:11, al.), visible brightness, splendour, glory: of light, Act.22:11; of heavenly bodies, 1Co.15:40ff.; esp. that wh. radiates from God's presence, as manifested in the pillar of cloud and in the Holy of Holies (= כָּבוֹד, Exo.16:10 25:22 40:34, al.; and new Heb. שְׁכִינָה, 2Ma.2:8; see DB, iv, 489b), Rom.9:4, Jas.2:1 (see Hort, Mayor, in l.); hence of the manifested glory of God, Rom.1:23, Col.1:11 Eph.1:6, 12 17 3:16; of the same as communicated to man through Christ, 2Co.3:18 4:6; and of the glorious condition into which Christians shall enter hereafter, Rom.8:18, 21 9:23, 2Ti.2:10, al. SYN.: ἔπαινος τιμή (see Hort on 1Pe.1:7). (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 151 NT verses. KJV: dignity, glory(-ious), honour, praise, worship See also: 1 Corinthians 2:7; John 7:18; 1 Peter 1:7.

κατεργαζεται katergazomai G2716 "to workout/produce" Verb-PNI-3S

Means to accomplish or achieve something through effort, like working to achieve a goal in Romans 4:15. It's about bringing something to completion. In 2 Corinthians 7:10, it describes the outcome of godly sorrow.

Definition: κατ-εργάζομαι (emphatic form of ἐργάζομαι), [in LXX for פָּעַל, etc. (9 exx., each for a different Heb. word) ;] to effect by labour, achieve, work out, bring about: with accusative, Rom.4:15 5:3 7:8, 15-20, 2Co.7:10, Eph.6:13, Jas.1:3; pass., 2Co.12:12; with accusative of thing(s) and dative of person(s), Rom.7:13, 2Co.4:17 7:11 9:11; id. before διά, with genitive of person(s), Rom.15:18; τ. σωτηρίαν, Php.2:12; with accusative of person(s) before εἰς, 2Co.5:5 (RV, wrought); of evil deeds, Rom.1:27 2:9, 1Co.5:3, 1Pe.4:3.† (AS)

Usage: Occurs in 23 NT verses. KJV: cause, to (deed), perform, work (out) See also: 1 Corinthians 5:3; Philippians 2:12; 1 Peter 4:3.

ημιν egō G1473 "I/we" Pron-1DP

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.

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

Study Notes — 2 Corinthians 4:17

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
2 Corinthians 4:17 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on 2 Corinthians 4:17
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Corinthians 4:17
Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 4:17
Trapp's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 4:17
Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 4:17
Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 4:17
Cambridge Bible on 2 Corinthians 4:17
Barnes' Notes on 2 Corinthians 4:17
Whedon's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 4:17
Sermons on 2 Corinthians 4:17

Context — Treasure in Jars of Clay

15All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is extending to more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow, to the glory of God. 16Therefore we do not lose heart. Though our outer self is wasting away, yet our inner self is being renewed day by day.

17For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory that is far beyond comparison.

18So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Romans 8:18	I consider that our present sufferings are not comparable to the glory that will be revealed in us.
2	1 Peter 5:10	And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to His eternal glory in Christ, will Himself restore you, secure you, strengthen you, and establish you.
3	Romans 5:3–5	Not only that, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us.
4	James 1:12	Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.
5	Hebrews 12:10–11	Our fathers disciplined us for a short time as they thought best, but God disciplines us for our good, so that we may share in His holiness. No discipline seems enjoyable at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields a harvest of righteousness and peace to those who have been trained by it.
6	James 1:3–4	because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Allow perseverance to finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
7	1 Peter 1:6–8	In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in various trials so that the proven character of your faith—more precious than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and rejoice with an inexpressible and glorious joy,
8	2 Corinthians 3:18	And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into His image with intensifying glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.
9	Romans 8:37	No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.
10	1 Peter 4:7	The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear-minded and sober, so that you can pray.

2 Corinthians 4:17 Summary

[This verse reminds us that the struggles we face in life are temporary and relatively minor compared to the eternal glory that awaits us in heaven. As the Bible says in Romans 8:18, our present sufferings are not worth comparing to the glory that will be revealed in us. By trusting in God's love and plan, we can face our challenges with hope and confidence, knowing that they are producing something beautiful and eternal in us, as seen in 2 Corinthians 4:17 and James 1:2-4.]

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'light and momentary affliction' mean in the context of this verse?

This phrase refers to the temporary and relatively minor struggles we face in this life, compared to the eternal weight of glory that awaits us, as seen in Romans 8:18 and 2 Corinthians 4:17 itself.

How can our affliction produce eternal glory?

According to 2 Corinthians 4:17, our affliction can produce eternal glory because it refines our faith, helps us to trust in God, and ultimately leads us to a deeper understanding of His love and plan for us, as mentioned in James 1:2-4 and Romans 5:3-5.

What does 'eternal glory that is far beyond comparison' mean?

This phrase refers to the unimaginable joy, honor, and bliss that awaits believers in heaven, which far exceeds any earthly pleasure or satisfaction, as described in 1 Corinthians 2:9 and Revelation 21:4.

How can we apply this verse to our everyday lives?

We can apply this verse by trusting in God's sovereignty and goodness, even in the midst of struggles, and by fixing our eyes on the eternal glory that awaits us, rather than the temporary troubles of this life, as encouraged in 2 Corinthians 4:18 and Hebrews 12:2.

Reflection Questions

What are some 'light and momentary afflictions' that I am currently facing, and how can I trust God to use them for my good?
In what ways can I 'fix my eyes on what is unseen' and prioritize the eternal over the temporary?
How can I share the hope of eternal glory with others who are struggling, and point them to the love and redemption of Christ?
What are some ways that my faith is being refined and strengthened through my current challenges, and how can I cooperate with God in this process?

Gill's Exposition on 2 Corinthians 4:17

For our light affliction,.... The difference between the present and future state of the saints is here expressed, the disparity between them shown, and the influence the one has upon the other.

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on 2 Corinthians 4:17

For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; Which is but for a moment , [ to (G3588) parautika (G3910)] - 'which is but for

Matthew Poole's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 4:17

The apostle in these words wonderfully lesseneth his own, and the rest of the apostles’ , and all other Christians’ sufferings for the gospel: he calleth them light, not that they were so in themselves, but with respect to that weight of glory which he mentioneth in the latter part of the verse: he calleth them momentary, but for a moment, with reference to that eternity which is mentioned. The afflictions are light, the glory will be a weight; the afflictions are but for a moment, the glory shall be eternal. And (saith the apostle) our affliction worketh for us this glory: the glory will not only be a consequent of these afflictions, but these afflictions will be a cause of it; not a meritorious cause, (for what proportion is there between momentary afflictions and eternal glory? Between light afflictions and a weight of glory, an exceeding weight of glory?) But a cause in respect of the infinite goodness and mercy of God, and in respect of the truth and faithfulness of God.

Trapp's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 4:17

17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; Ver. 17. For our light affliction] Here we have an elegant antithesis, and a double hyperbole, beyond translation. For affliction, here is glory; for light affliction, a weight of glory; for momentary affliction, eternal glory. Which is but for a moment] For a short braid only, as that martyr said. Mourning lasteth but till morning. It is but winking, and thou shalt be in heaven presently, quoth another martyr. Worketh unto us] As a causa sine qua non, as the law worketh wrath, Romans 4:15. If our dear Lord did not put these thorns into our bed, we should sleep out our lives and lose our glory: affliction calls to us as the angel to Elijah, Up, thou hast a great way to go. A far more exceeding] An exceeding excessive eternal weight. Or, a far more excellent eternal weight. Nec Christus nec caelum patitur hyperbolen, saith one. Here it is hard to hyperbelize. Words are too weak to express heaven’ s happiness. The apostle heard wordless words, ρηματαρρητα 2 Corinthians 12:4, when he was there, and in speaking of it commonly useth a transcendent super-superlative kind of language. The Vulgate interpreter’ s supra modum in sublimitare, Erasmus’ mire supra modum, Beza’ s excellenter excellens, falls a far deal short of St Paul’ s emphatic Grecism here. Διπλασιαζει, saith Chrysostom. He could not comprise it in one single word, he doubleth it therefore, and yet attaineth not to what he aimeth at. Weight of glory] The apostle alludeth to the Hebrew and Chaldee words which signify both weight and glory, ααεγιχψ. Glory is such a weight, as if the body were not upheld by the power of God, it were impossible it should bear it. Joy so great, as that we must enter into it; it is too big to enter into us. "Enter into thy Master’ s joy," Matthew 25:21. Here we find that when there is great joy, the body is not able to bear it, our spirits are ready to expire; what shall it then be in heaven?

Ellicott's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 4:17

(17) For our light affliction . . .—More accurately, the present lightness of our affliction. This is at once more literally in accord with the Greek, and better sustains the balanced antithesis of the clauses. A far more exceeding . . .—The Greek phrase is adverbial rather than adjectival: worketh for us exceedingly, exceedingly. After the Hebrew idiom of expressing intensity by the repetition of the same word, (used of this very word “exceedingly” in Genesis 7:19; Genesis 17:2), he seeks to accumulate one phrase upon another (literally, according to excess unto excess) to express his sense of the immeasurable glory which he has in view.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 4:17

Verse 17. For our light affliction, c.] Mr. Blackwall, in his sacred classics, has well illustrated this passage. I shall here produce his paraphrase as quoted by Dr. Dodd: "This is one of the most emphatic passages in all St. Paul's writings, in which he speaks as much like an orator as he does as an apostle. The lightness of the trial is expressed by τοελαφροντηςθλιψεως, the lightness of our affliction as if he had said, it is even levity itself in such a comparison. On the other hand, the καθ' ὑπερβοληνειςὑπερβολην, which we render far more exceeding, is infinitely emphatical, and cannot be fully expressed by any translation. It signifies that all hyperboles fall short of describing that weight-eternal glory, so solid and lasting, that you may pass from hyperbole to hyperbole, and yet, when you have gained the last, are infinitely below it. It is every where visible what influence St. Paul's Hebrew had on his Greek: כבד cabad, signifies to be heavy, and to be glorious; the apostle in his Greek unites these two significations, and says, WEIGHT of GLORY." St. Chrysostom's observations on these words are in his very best manner, and are both judicious and beautiful: ΤΙΟΗΣΙπαραλληλαταπαροντατοιςμελλουσι·τοπαραυτικαπροςτοαιωνιον·τοελαφρονπροςτοβαρυ·τηνθλιψινπροςτηνδοξαν·καιουδετουτοιςαρκειται, αλλ' ἑτεραντιθησιλεξιν, διπλασιαζωναυτην, καιλεγων, καθ' ὑπερβοληνειςὑπερβολην - τουτεστι, μεγεθοςὑπερβολικωςὑπερβολικον. "The apostle opposes things present to things future; a moment to eternity; lightness to weight; affliction to glory. Nor is he satisfied with this, but he adds another word, and doubles it, saying, καθ' ὑπερβοληνειςὑπερβολην. This is a magnitude excessively exceeding." See Parkhurst, sub voce υπερβολη.

Cambridge Bible on 2 Corinthians 4:17

17. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment] Literally, For the momentary lightness of our affliction. The argument is advanced another step. Not only have we this inner fount of strength and consolation, but we know that it is eternal, while our afflictions endure but for a moment. Cf. Romans 8:18.worketh for us] Literally, worketh out, bringeth to perfection. The precise opposite of the word translated ‘brought to nought,’ ‘done away.’ See ch. 2 Corinthians 3:7.a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory] Over measure an everlasting birthun into higness of glorie, Wiclif. Literally, a weight of glory in excess and unto excess: the whole passage denoting that the glory to come exceeds the power of words to tell. The Vulgate renders ‘supra modum in sublimitate.’ Alford, ‘in a surpassing and still more surpassing manner.’ The old English versions, including the A. V., follow Tyndale here. An expression very closely approaching to this is the usual one in Hebrew for anything immeasurably great, as for instance, in the original of Gen 7:19. The word glory in Hebrew is derived from the original idea of weight. It is possible that this connection of ideas may have influenced St Paul in the choice of this expression.

Barnes' Notes on 2 Corinthians 4:17

For our light affliction - This verse, with the following, is designed to show further the sources of consolation and support which Paul and his fellow-laborers had in their many trials.

Whedon's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 4:17

17. For our light affliction—Literally, the immediate lightness of our affliction. Worketh—The continuous present is working. This very affliction, while wasting, is, through the power of Christ, working out a divine result.

Sermons on 2 Corinthians 4:17

	Sermon	Description
	Set Your Affections Above - Part 1 by Derek Prince	In this sermon, the speaker focuses on 2nd Corinthians chapter 4 and highlights the idea that everything in the universe is for the sake of believers. The speaker emphasizes that a
	Through Jordan by William Booth	William Booth emphasizes the challenges faced in life, comparing them to running with footmen and contending with the swelling of Jordan, symbolizing trials and tribulations. He en
	Chasing the Dragon 2 of 2 by Jackie Pullinger	In this sermon, the speaker shares various stories and experiences related to the preaching of the word of God. One story is about Peter and John encountering a beggar who asks for
	You Don't Have to Quit by Warren Wiersbe	In this sermon, the speaker addresses the difficult times that people are facing both personally and nationally. He emphasizes the importance of Christian friends and the support a
	Aspects of the City by T. Austin-Sparks	In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the purpose of trials and adversity in the lives of believers. They suggest that these challenges are allowed by God to deepen and strengthe
	The Ministry of the Night by A.W. Tozer	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of conversion and describes it as a call from God to move from darkness and wickedness into light and holiness. He emphasizes tha
	Judgement Seat 1-31-91 - Part 1 by Leonard Ravenhill	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the corruption and violence present in the world today. He criticizes the politicians in Washington for their involvement in financial scand