2 Corinthians 4:2
Verse
Context
The Light of the Gospel
1Therefore, since God in His mercy has given us this ministry, we do not lose heart.2Instead, we have renounced secret and shameful ways. We do not practice deceit, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by open proclamation of the truth, we commend ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.3And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But have renounced - Απειπαμεθα· We have disclaimed the hidden things of dishonesty; τα κρυπτα της αισχυνης, the hidden things of shame; those things which wicked men do; and which they are ashamed to have known, and ashamed to own. Dr. Whitby thinks that the apostle refers to carnal abominations, of which the Jews and their rabbins were notoriously guilty. And it does appear from the first epistle that there were persons in Corinth who taught that fornication was no sin; and it appears also that several had taken the part of the incestuous person. Not walking in craftiness - Πανουργιᾳ· In subtlety and clever cunning, as the false teachers did, who were accomplished fellows, and capable of any thing. The word is compounded of παν, all, and εργον, work. Nor handling the word of God deceitfully - Not using the doctrines of the Gospel to serve any secular or carnal purpose; not explaining away their force so as to palliate or excuse sin; not generalizing its precepts so as to excuse many in particular circumstances from obedience, especially in that which most crossed their inclinations. There were deceitful handlers of this kind in Corinth, and there are many of them still in the garb of Christian ministers; persons who disguise that part of their creed which, though they believe it is of God, would make them unpopular, affecting moderation in order to procure a larger audience and more extensive support; not attacking prevalent and popular vices; calling dissipation of mind, relaxation; and worldly and carnal pleasures, innocent amusements, etc. In a word, turning with the tide, and shifting with the wind of popular opinion, prejudice, fashion, etc. But by manifestation of the truth - An open, explicit acknowledgment of what we know to be the truth - what we are assured is the Gospel of Jesus; concealing nothing; blunting the edge of no truth; explaining spiritual things, not in the words of man's wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit of God. Commending ourselves to every man's conscience - Speaking so that every man's conscience shall bear its testimony that we proclaim the truth of God. This is one characteristic of Divine truth: even every man's conscience will acknowledge it, though it speak decidedly against his own practices. In the sight of God - Whose eye is ever on the heart and conscience of man, and who always bears testimony to his own word.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
renounced--literally, "bid farewell to." of dishonesty--rather, "of shame." "I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ" (Rom 1:16). Shame would lead to hiding (Co2 4:3); whereas "we use great plainness of speech" (Co2 3:12); "by manifestation of the truth." Compare Co2 3:3, "manifestly declared." He refers to the disingenuous artifices of "many" teachers at Corinth (Co2 2:17; Co2 3:1; Co2 11:13-15). handling . . . deceitfully--so "corrupt" or adulterate "the word of God" (Co2 2:17; compare Th1 2:3-4). commending--recommending ourselves: recurring to Co2 3:1. to--to the verdict of. every man's conscience-- (Co2 5:11). Not to men's carnal judgment, as those alluded to (Co2 3:1). in the sight of God-- (Co2 2:17; Gal 1:10).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty,.... Or "shame"; this is a further account of the conduct of the first ministers of the Gospel, and very worthy of our imitation, and in which the apostle strikes at the different manner of behaviour in the false apostles: this may respect both doctrine and practice; they abhorred and rejected everything that was scandalous and reproachful to the Gospel of Christ; in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, they had their conversation in the world; they were open and above board, both in principle and practice; the same men in public, as in private; they used no art to cover their doctrines, or hide their conversations; everything of this kind was detestable to them; whereas the false teachers took a great deal of pains to colour over both their sentiments and their lives; and "a shame it was to speak of the things that were done of them in secret", Eph 5:12. Moreover, they were not walking in craftiness; they used no sly and artful methods to please men, to gain applause from them, or make merchandise of them; they did not lie in wait to deceive, watching an opportunity to work upon credulous and incautious minds; they did not, by good words and fair speeches, deceive the hearts of the simple; nor put on different forms, or make different appearances, in order to suit themselves to the different tempers and tastes of men, as did the false apostles: not handling the word of God deceitfully. They did not corrupt it with human doctrines, or mix and blend it with philosophy, and vain deceit; they did not wrest the Scriptures to serve any carnal or worldly purpose; nor did they accommodate them to the lusts and passions of men; or conceal any part of truth, or keep back any thing which might be profitable to the churches: but by the manifestation of the truth, commending themselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God; that is, they with all plainness and evidence clearly preached the truth as it is in Jesus, presenting it to, and pressing it upon the consciences of men; where they left it, and to which they could appeal; and all this they did, in the sight and presence of the omniscient God, to whom they knew they must give an account of themselves and their ministry.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:2 Paul’s ministry was marked by honesty, unlike some other preachers (2:17).
2 Corinthians 4:2
The Light of the Gospel
1Therefore, since God in His mercy has given us this ministry, we do not lose heart.2Instead, we have renounced secret and shameful ways. We do not practice deceit, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by open proclamation of the truth, we commend ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.3And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Running the Right Race (Birmingham Conference)
By David Wilkerson4.3K46:23Running The RaceDependence on the Holy SpiritMAT 6:33ROM 8:51CO 9:242CO 4:2GAL 1:6PHP 3:142TI 4:7HEB 12:1JAS 4:41JN 2:15David Wilkerson emphasizes the importance of running the right race in the Christian life, distinguishing between the spirit race, which leads to Christ, and the flesh race, which leads to worldly success. He warns that many Christians, including pastors, are caught up in the flesh race, leading to spiritual exhaustion and shipwrecked lives. Wilkerson calls for a return to dependence on the Holy Spirit and a commitment to preaching the uncompromised gospel of Jesus Christ. He encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with God, reminding them that true success is found in Christ alone, not in worldly achievements. The sermon concludes with a call to stand firm in faith and not compromise the truth of the gospel.
Paul the Apostle - a Vibrant Life (Part 3)
By Denny Kenaston2.1K1:09:36Paul The ApostleMAT 6:332CO 2:172CO 4:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of living a truthful and righteous life as a testament to one's faith. He refers to the apostle Paul as an example of someone who manifested the truth through his actions and conduct. The speaker also mentions a powerful autobiographical sermon by Paul in 1 Thessalonians chapter two, where Paul describes how he and his apostolic team conducted themselves in Thessalonica. The sermon encourages believers to be careful with their words and actions, so as not to offend others and bring blame to the ministry.
A Leaders Worst Nightmare
By Alan Stewart1.5K50:04LeadershipRevival1SA 9:21SA 15:261SA 16:142SA 1:101KI 11:14PSA 139:23MAT 22:37JHN 21:151CO 9:272CO 4:2Alan Stewart delivers a powerful sermon titled 'A Leader's Worst Nightmare,' reflecting on the life of King Saul as a cautionary tale for leaders in ministry. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining God's favor and touch in our lives, warning against the dangers of mistrusting God's plan and misusing our positions. Stewart shares personal anecdotes and biblical examples to illustrate how leaders can fall from grace, ultimately urging the audience to seek genuine revival through a deep love for Jesus. He concludes with a heartfelt call for self-examination and repentance, reminding all leaders that their greatest fear should be losing their connection with God.
The Meaning of Head in the Bible
By Wayne Grudem1.4K1:08:22HeadshipGEN 2:18EXO 18:21MAT 6:331CO 11:32CO 4:2EPH 5:231PE 3:7In this sermon transcript, the speaker discusses the importance of citing references in a way that makes them difficult to locate. He emphasizes that evangelical scholarship should aim to follow the procedure used by Paul, who commended himself to every person's conscience by openly stating the truth. The speaker also mentions a system used by Chris, where the word "A" is used to refer to a person in authority. The transcript includes references to a conference on building strong families and the Council on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood. The speaker concludes by mentioning a conversation with Stan Gundry, a senior vice president, who holds a different view but allows for the publication of opposing views in his work.
Hidden Things Cause Spiritual Death
By Zeb McDaris1.3K1:22:47Spiritual DeathPRO 28:13ACT 2:12CO 4:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of honesty and transparency in serving the Lord. He shares a personal story about a man who had a difficult time serving God in other places but found a welcoming church where he could be open and honest. The preacher contrasts this with individuals who engage in secret sins and highlights the need for genuine repentance and a commitment to living righteously. He also challenges the congregation to examine their own commitment to God and the fruitfulness of their faith.
Chosen Vessel - Abiding in Christ
By Chuck Smith1.1K1:01:37LeadershipMAT 6:332CO 3:52CO 3:182CO 4:2REV 10:6In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the responsibilities and challenges of the ministry. He acknowledges that he is not sufficient for these tasks and relates to the apostle Paul's cry of inadequacy. The speaker emphasizes the importance of setting a good example as a representative of God and warns against diverting attention from Him. He encourages a focus on preaching Christ and beholding the glory of the Lord through the study of the Bible.
The Manifestation of the Holy Spirit ( 1 of 2 )
By Stephen Kaung1.0K1:22:351CO 12:71CO 12:122CO 4:22CO 13:14GAL 3:18GAL 5:22In this sermon, the speaker discusses how even though the disciples believed in Jesus, their understanding of his teachings was often limited. The speaker gives an example of when Jesus warned about the leaven of the Pharisees and the disciples misunderstood, thinking he was talking about bread. Jesus then reminded them of the miracle of feeding the five thousand to emphasize that bread was not the issue. The speaker emphasizes the importance of having a hearing heart and asks for God's word to fall on good ground and bear fruit. The sermon also mentions the previous conference themes of knowing God and knowing Christ, and highlights the importance of truth as the ultimate reality.
The Deep Sorrow of the Unconvinced
By Carter Conlon83347:342CO 4:2This sermon focuses on the deep sorrow of those who remain unconvinced by the Word of God, emphasizing the importance of fully embracing God's promises and living a life that manifests His truth to others. The speaker challenges the audience to believe for 10 people in their lifetime to be won to Christ, highlighting the impact such a commitment can have in averting judgment and bringing transformation to society.
Hearing and Doing God's Word - Part 2
By Vance Havner65210:43Word Of GodPSA 119:11MAT 7:24JHN 14:21ROM 10:172CO 4:2HEB 4:12JAS 1:22In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of commitment to the will of God. He shares a personal experience of being tempted by the devil to give a short speech and end the conference early, but he resists and continues to preach about commitment. The preacher challenges the audience to reflect on whether they have taken any action based on what they have heard during the conference. He encourages them to trust in God and surrender to His will, regardless of their age or circumstances.
Free Grace Salvation
By James Bourne0PSA 51:5ISA 48:8MAL 4:2MAT 6:24JHN 6:37JHN 15:18ROM 8:322CO 4:2GAL 1:3EPH 2:5TIT 3:51JN 4:13James Bourne preaches about the profound message of salvation by grace, emphasizing the hopelessness of sinners under conviction and the necessity of understanding God's mercy and pardon through Jesus Christ. He warns against false teachings that lead to despair and highlights the importance of recognizing the free grace of Christ as the only means of salvation. Bourne encourages believers to stand firm in the face of temptation, keeping their focus on the love and grace of Christ that brings unspeakable power and raises spirits from despair to heavenly hope.
The Price of Spiritual Authority
By David Wilkerson0Spiritual AuthorityHumilityPSA 139:23PRO 16:18MAT 23:12LUK 14:10JHN 15:52CO 4:2GAL 6:3PHP 2:3JAS 4:101PE 5:6David Wilkerson emphasizes that to walk in God's spiritual authority, one must confront their conscience and approach God with humility. He highlights the necessity of renouncing deceitful practices and being open to the Holy Spirit's guidance, as exemplified by the apostle Paul. Wilkerson challenges believers to consider their willingness to take a humble position, as illustrated by Jesus' teaching on choosing the lowest seat at a banquet. The sermon underscores that true spiritual authority comes at a price, requiring a sincere desire to draw closer to Jesus and receive His anointing. Ultimately, Wilkerson calls for a commitment to humility and integrity in the pursuit of spiritual leadership.
The Inner and the Outer Revelation
By Charles Finney0Moral ConvictionInner RevelationPSA 19:1ISA 55:1JER 29:13MAT 7:7JHN 1:9ROM 1:202CO 4:2EPH 2:8HEB 10:22REV 22:17Charles Finney addresses the prevalent infidelity among young men, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of both the inner moral convictions and the outer revelation of God through Scripture. He argues that many doubt the Bible not from honest study but from a lack of introspection into their own moral nature, which inherently reveals truths about God and moral law. Finney illustrates how the intuitive affirmations of our minds align with the teachings of the Bible, making it essential for individuals to recognize their moral obligations and the need for salvation. He encourages listeners to confront their own beliefs and the necessity of accepting the gospel as the solution to their spiritual needs. Ultimately, he calls for a personal response to God's offer of mercy and salvation.
It Is Impossible but That Offences Come
By Charles Finney0The Nature of GodFaith and DoubtPSA 19:1ISA 53:5JHN 3:16ROM 1:202CO 4:2EPH 2:8Charles Finney addresses the prevalent infidelity among young men, emphasizing that many doubt the inspiration of the Scriptures not from honest study but from a lack of understanding their own moral nature. He argues that our conscience and moral intuitions reveal the existence of God and the moral law, which the Bible assumes as a foundation for its teachings. Finney illustrates this through a conversation with a skeptic, demonstrating how acknowledging one's moral failures leads to the recognition of the need for salvation through the Gospel. He concludes that rejecting the Bible is absurd when it aligns with our innate moral convictions and that the Gospel provides the necessary hope for redemption. Ultimately, he urges listeners to embrace the truth of the Gospel as the solution to their spiritual needs.
The Great Fallacy of the Book
By Daniel Steele0PRO 12:22JHN 8:322CO 4:2EPH 4:25COL 3:9Daniel Steele addresses the fallacy of inventing new definitions to fit predetermined conclusions in theological studies, emphasizing the danger of misleading readers and the neglect of systematic theology due to arbitrary word meanings. He warns against using deceptive definitions in theological treatises, highlighting the importance of sanctifying souls through truth rather than manipulation. Steele cautions against writers who depart from accurate definitions, comparing it to claiming the moon is made of green cheese by distorting facts. Ultimately, he urges discernment and reliance on truthful interpretations in moral and religious teachings.
Nicolaitanism - the Rise and Growth of the Clergy
By F.W. Grant0JHN 4:24JHN 10:27JHN 18:37ACT 20:281CO 12:42CO 4:2GAL 1:111TI 3:12TI 2:2REV 2:6F.W. Grant delves into the issue of Nicolaitanism, highlighting the danger of clerisy and the rise of a spiritual caste within the Church. He emphasizes the departure from truth and the establishment of a worldly Church under Satan's influence, leading to the subjection of the laity by a privileged clergy class. Grant challenges the traditional concept of ordination, stressing that spiritual authority should come from God's Word and individual gifting, not human authorization. He calls for a return to the true essence of ministry, where every believer is a minister and priest, responsible for contributing to the body of Christ and ministering to one another in love.
Born of God
By T. Austin-Sparks0New BirthDivine InterventionEZK 21:27LUK 1:35JHN 1:12JHN 3:6JHN 16:33ROM 12:172CO 4:21PE 4:171JN 3:11JN 5:4T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the profound nature of being 'Born of God,' drawing parallels between the unique birth of Jesus and the new birth of believers. He highlights that the new birth is a divine intervention, not a result of human effort, and that it brings about a fundamental difference in the believer's nature, making them children of God. Sparks warns against the dangers of misunderstanding this transformation and encourages believers to recognize their inherent power to overcome the world, as well as the inevitable spiritual antagonism they will face. He concludes by stressing the importance of grace, simplicity, and submission in the process of spiritual growth, using Mary as an example of the vessel for divine intervention.
Conscience and the Bible in Harmony
By Charles Finney0Divine InspirationConscienceJHN 16:8ROM 2:152CO 4:2EPH 2:8HEB 10:22Charles Finney emphasizes the harmony between the Bible and human conscience, arguing that both affirm the same moral truths and obligations. He explains that every person possesses a conscience that recognizes right and wrong, which aligns with the teachings of Scripture. Finney asserts that the Bible's moral precepts are universally accepted by conscience, proving its divine inspiration. He highlights the necessity of atonement and justification by faith, noting that both conscience and the Bible agree on these critical doctrines. Ultimately, he warns that one cannot truly die as a skeptic, as the voice of conscience will inevitably confront them with the truth.
Do Not Adulterate the Word of God
By Zac Poonen0PSA 1:5PRO 11:3MAT 16:23JHN 7:381CO 3:192CO 4:2JAS 4:10Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of renouncing craftiness, dishonesty, and hidden sins in our lives to truly experience God's rest and be useful members in the body of Christ. He warns against compromising God's standards to please others or twisting Scripture to fit personal beliefs, highlighting the need for honesty and humility in interpreting and applying God's Word.
St. Paul, the Model Christian.
By Daniel Steele01CO 4:161CO 11:12CO 4:2PHP 3:14PHP 4:91TH 2:10Daniel Steele preaches about the importance of living a straight and upright Christian life, contrasting the crooked paths of sin and repentance with the straight path of righteousness exemplified by St. Paul. He emphasizes the need for believers to imitate Paul's example of moral character and self-conquest, following the straight line towards the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Steele highlights Paul's conscious pursuit of holiness and his unwavering commitment to living a blameless life, urging Christians to imitate him as he imitates Christ.
Definite Directions for Open-Air Preaching
By Gawin Kirkham0NEH 8:4ECC 12:13ISA 58:1EZK 2:7MAT 5:16MAT 28:201CO 14:402CO 3:172CO 4:21TI 4:13Gawin Kirkham emphasizes the importance of open-air preaching and provides practical advice for street preachers. He highlights the need for a leader to organize the meetings and choose suitable locations, as well as the value of having helpers to maintain order and attract and retain the crowd. Kirkham stresses the significance of using the Bible effectively, cultivating reverence during open-air services, and dealing with interruptions wisely to ensure the message of the Gospel is proclaimed effectively and respectfully.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But have renounced - Απειπαμεθα· We have disclaimed the hidden things of dishonesty; τα κρυπτα της αισχυνης, the hidden things of shame; those things which wicked men do; and which they are ashamed to have known, and ashamed to own. Dr. Whitby thinks that the apostle refers to carnal abominations, of which the Jews and their rabbins were notoriously guilty. And it does appear from the first epistle that there were persons in Corinth who taught that fornication was no sin; and it appears also that several had taken the part of the incestuous person. Not walking in craftiness - Πανουργιᾳ· In subtlety and clever cunning, as the false teachers did, who were accomplished fellows, and capable of any thing. The word is compounded of παν, all, and εργον, work. Nor handling the word of God deceitfully - Not using the doctrines of the Gospel to serve any secular or carnal purpose; not explaining away their force so as to palliate or excuse sin; not generalizing its precepts so as to excuse many in particular circumstances from obedience, especially in that which most crossed their inclinations. There were deceitful handlers of this kind in Corinth, and there are many of them still in the garb of Christian ministers; persons who disguise that part of their creed which, though they believe it is of God, would make them unpopular, affecting moderation in order to procure a larger audience and more extensive support; not attacking prevalent and popular vices; calling dissipation of mind, relaxation; and worldly and carnal pleasures, innocent amusements, etc. In a word, turning with the tide, and shifting with the wind of popular opinion, prejudice, fashion, etc. But by manifestation of the truth - An open, explicit acknowledgment of what we know to be the truth - what we are assured is the Gospel of Jesus; concealing nothing; blunting the edge of no truth; explaining spiritual things, not in the words of man's wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit of God. Commending ourselves to every man's conscience - Speaking so that every man's conscience shall bear its testimony that we proclaim the truth of God. This is one characteristic of Divine truth: even every man's conscience will acknowledge it, though it speak decidedly against his own practices. In the sight of God - Whose eye is ever on the heart and conscience of man, and who always bears testimony to his own word.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
renounced--literally, "bid farewell to." of dishonesty--rather, "of shame." "I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ" (Rom 1:16). Shame would lead to hiding (Co2 4:3); whereas "we use great plainness of speech" (Co2 3:12); "by manifestation of the truth." Compare Co2 3:3, "manifestly declared." He refers to the disingenuous artifices of "many" teachers at Corinth (Co2 2:17; Co2 3:1; Co2 11:13-15). handling . . . deceitfully--so "corrupt" or adulterate "the word of God" (Co2 2:17; compare Th1 2:3-4). commending--recommending ourselves: recurring to Co2 3:1. to--to the verdict of. every man's conscience-- (Co2 5:11). Not to men's carnal judgment, as those alluded to (Co2 3:1). in the sight of God-- (Co2 2:17; Gal 1:10).
John Gill Bible Commentary
But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty,.... Or "shame"; this is a further account of the conduct of the first ministers of the Gospel, and very worthy of our imitation, and in which the apostle strikes at the different manner of behaviour in the false apostles: this may respect both doctrine and practice; they abhorred and rejected everything that was scandalous and reproachful to the Gospel of Christ; in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, they had their conversation in the world; they were open and above board, both in principle and practice; the same men in public, as in private; they used no art to cover their doctrines, or hide their conversations; everything of this kind was detestable to them; whereas the false teachers took a great deal of pains to colour over both their sentiments and their lives; and "a shame it was to speak of the things that were done of them in secret", Eph 5:12. Moreover, they were not walking in craftiness; they used no sly and artful methods to please men, to gain applause from them, or make merchandise of them; they did not lie in wait to deceive, watching an opportunity to work upon credulous and incautious minds; they did not, by good words and fair speeches, deceive the hearts of the simple; nor put on different forms, or make different appearances, in order to suit themselves to the different tempers and tastes of men, as did the false apostles: not handling the word of God deceitfully. They did not corrupt it with human doctrines, or mix and blend it with philosophy, and vain deceit; they did not wrest the Scriptures to serve any carnal or worldly purpose; nor did they accommodate them to the lusts and passions of men; or conceal any part of truth, or keep back any thing which might be profitable to the churches: but by the manifestation of the truth, commending themselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God; that is, they with all plainness and evidence clearly preached the truth as it is in Jesus, presenting it to, and pressing it upon the consciences of men; where they left it, and to which they could appeal; and all this they did, in the sight and presence of the omniscient God, to whom they knew they must give an account of themselves and their ministry.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
4:2 Paul’s ministry was marked by honesty, unlike some other preachers (2:17).