2 Corinthians 5:7
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For we walk by faith - While we are in the present state faith supplies the place of direct vision. In the future world we shall have sight - the utmost evidence of spiritual and eternal things; as we shall be present with them, and live in them. Here we have the testimony of God, and believe in their reality, because we cannot doubt his word. And to make this more convincing he gives us the earnest of his Spirit, which is a foretaste of glory.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
we walk--in our Christian course here on earth. not by sight--Greek, "not by appearance." Our life is governed by faith in our immortal hope; not by the outward specious appearance of present things [TITTMANN, Greek Synonyms of the New Testament]. Compare "apparently," the Septuagint, "by appearance," Num 12:8. WAHL supports English Version. Co2 4:18 also confirms it (compare Rom 8:24; Co1 13:12-13). God has appointed in this life faith for our great duty, and in the next, vision for our reward [SOUTH] (Pe1 1:8).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For we walk by faith, and not by sight. Faith is a grace which answers many useful purposes; it is the eye of the soul, by which it looks to Christ for righteousness, peace, pardon, life, and salvation; the hand by which it receives him, and the foot by which it goes to him, and walks in him as it has received him; which denotes not a single act of faith, but a continued course of believing; and is expressive, not of a weak, but of a strong steady faith of glory and happiness, and of interest in it: and it is opposed to "sight": by which is meant, not sensible communion, but the celestial vision: there is something of sight in faith; that is a seeing of the Son; and it is an evidence of things not seen, of the invisible glories of the other world; faith looks at, and has a glimpse of things not seen, which are eternal; but it is but seeing as through a glass darkly; it is not that full sight, face to face, which will be had hereafter, when faith is turned into vision. For we walk by faith, and not by sight. Faith is a grace which answers many useful purposes; it is the eye of the soul, by which it looks to Christ for righteousness, peace, pardon, life, and salvation; the hand by which it receives him, and the foot by which it goes to him, and walks in him as it has received him; which denotes not a single act of faith, but a continued course of believing; and is expressive, not of a weak, but of a strong steady faith of glory and happiness, and of interest in it: and it is opposed to "sight": by which is meant, not sensible communion, but the celestial vision: there is something of sight in faith; that is a seeing of the Son; and it is an evidence of things not seen, of the invisible glories of the other world; faith looks at, and has a glimpse of things not seen, which are eternal; but it is but seeing as through a glass darkly; it is not that full sight, face to face, which will be had hereafter, when faith is turned into vision. 2 Corinthians 5:8 co2 5:8 co2 5:8 co2 5:8We are confident, I say, and willing rather,.... We are cheerful in our present state, being assured of future happiness; though we choose rather to be absent from the body; that is, to die, to depart out of this world. The interval between death, and the resurrection, is a state of absence from the body, during which time the soul is disembodied, and exists in a separate state; not in a state of inactivity and sleep, for that would not be desirable, but of happiness and glory, enjoying the presence of God, and praising of him, believing and waiting for the resurrection of the body, when both will be united together again; and after that there will be no more absence, neither from the body, nor from the Lord: and to be present with the Lord. This was promised to Christ in the everlasting covenant, that all his spiritual seed and offspring should be with him. This he expected; it was the joy of this which was set before him, that carried him through his sufferings and death with so much cheerfulness; this is the sum of his prayers and intercession, and what all his preparations in heaven are on the account of. It is this which supports and comforts the saints under all their sorrows here, and which makes them meet death with pleasure, which otherwise is formidable and disagreeable to nature; and even desirous of parting with life, to be with Christ, which is far better.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:7 Our hope for future resurrection can only be known by faith (see Heb 11:1, 3, 27), yet we do have Jesus’ own resurrection and the presence of the Holy Spirit as evidence of what is to come (1 Cor 15:1-9; Eph 1:14).
2 Corinthians 5:7
Our Eternal Dwelling
6Therefore we are always confident, although we know that while we are at home in the body, we are away from the Lord.7For we walk by faith, not by sight.8We are confident, then, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Set Your Affections Above - Part 1
By Derek Prince16K22:36AffectionsMAT 6:33LUK 12:482CO 4:172CO 5:7COL 3:1HEB 11:27In 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 as God's children, our lives are hidden with Christ in God. The fear of death is discussed as a bondage that the devil uses to hinder believers from being effective. The speaker encourages the audience to conquer the fear of death and find freedom in Christ, emphasizing that Christ is our life. The privilege of hearing and understanding the truth is also highlighted, with the speaker expressing awe at how rapidly truth is being restored to the people of God. The sermon concludes with a personal testimony of Eldridge Cleaver's conversion experience.
Holy Harmony - Part 2
By Elisabeth Elliot5.7K41:00Unity1SA 3:18PSA 139:12JER 29:11MAT 6:33ROM 8:282CO 5:71PE 5:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the idea that everything in our lives is handed to us by God, who is loving, sovereign, omnipotent, and omniscient. The speaker encourages the audience to accept and embrace the circumstances of life as part of God's plan for their good. The sermon also highlights the obedience of early Christians who went into the world to preach the gospel, even at the cost of their lives. The speaker reminds the audience that as Christians, our lives may not make sense to the world, but we live in faith, drawing on supernatural power and being transformed into the image of Christ.
Meet Your Psychiatrist: He Helps You Live by Faith
By Warren Wiersbe4.5K40:52PSA 116:10MAT 6:332CO 4:132CO 5:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the power of God's word to bring order and light out of chaos and darkness. He encourages believers to have faith in God's ability to transform their lives and circumstances. The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in generating faith through the word of God. The speaker also highlights the importance of testimony, which is the result of treasuring God's word, enduring trials, and trusting in Him.
It Comes Down to Faith (1 of 4)
By Paul Washer4.4K1:14:47Trust in God's CharacterFaithPSA 37:5PRO 3:5ISA 26:3MAT 6:33ROM 4:32CO 5:7PHP 4:19HEB 11:1JAS 1:61PE 5:7Paul Washer emphasizes the profound journey of faith, illustrating how true faith evolves from seeking blessings and feelings to a deep relationship with God Himself. He contrasts immaturity in faith, which seeks God's gifts, with maturity that seeks the Giver, highlighting that faith is rooted in understanding God's character and His promises. Washer stresses that faith is not merely a leap into the unknown but a confident assurance based on God's revealed Word, urging believers to trust in God's goodness and wisdom in all aspects of life. He challenges listeners to examine their faith and obedience, asserting that true faith manifests in a life that reflects trust in God's character and His commands.
God Is Able
By Hans R. Waldvogel2.9K19:00Ability Of GodJHN 20:29ROM 4:171CO 10:132CO 5:72CO 9:8EPH 3:20PHP 3:21In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of knowing God and His ability to fulfill His promises. He encourages the audience to have faith and trust in God, even when they may not feel like it. The preacher highlights the power of Jesus and the wonders of the faith life. He reminds the listeners that God is able to keep them from stumbling and present them spotless before His glory. The sermon emphasizes the abundance of God's grace and His ability to meet all their needs.
Pure of Heart Shall See God
By Leonard Ravenhill2.7K1:12:24PurityACT 4:12ROM 7:242CO 5:7In this sermon, the speaker discusses the current state of the world and how spiritual things are often overshadowed by worldly and sensational things. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross and surrendering everything to Him. The speaker also mentions the judgment seat of Christ and the need for individuals to watch their steps and be prepared to stand before God alone. He shares a story of a young girl in China who faced persecution for her faith but remained steadfast in her witness for Jesus.
Hell - Part 1
By Norman Grubb2.3K31:11HellJHN 3:16JHN 14:6ROM 10:91CO 2:142CO 5:7HEB 11:11PE 1:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the concept of being forms of something. He explains that just as a cook learns the art of cooking, a teacher learns the art of teaching, and a doctor learns the science of medicine, we are forms of something as well. The speaker suggests that we are forms of God and that our purpose in life is to manifest God's presence through our actions. However, despite our connection to God, the speaker acknowledges that many of us feel dissatisfied and conflicted within ourselves. The solution, according to the speaker, lies in realizing our eternal relationship with God through Jesus Christ and experiencing the fullness of peace, joy, power, freedom, and love that comes from that relationship.
Mr. Fearing Comforted
By C.H. Spurgeon2.0K40:331SA 17:37JOB 5:19PSA 34:19MAT 6:33MAT 14:312CO 5:7HEB 11:1In this sermon, the minister addresses the issue of doubt and the tendency to focus on visible circumstances rather than trusting in God. He uses the example of Peter walking on water to illustrate how doubt can arise when we shift our focus from God to the challenges around us. The minister encourages the listener to rely on God for provision and not to depend on human efforts alone. He also acknowledges the struggles and opposition that believers may face, but emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's promises and seeking solace in prayer and the Bible.
The Way to Look at Things
By Jim Cymbala1.5K37:37DiscouragementLUK 18:1ACT 20:242CO 4:162CO 5:71TH 5:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of looking at things from a spiritual perspective rather than focusing on what is seen. He encourages the audience to walk by faith and not by sight, as faith is contrasted with sight. The speaker shares the heartbreak of an apostle or leader who sees some of his people going astray, but remains committed to the work of Christ. He reminds the audience that despite outward troubles, they should not lose heart, as their faith and daily renewal in God will lead to an eternal glory that outweighs any temporary difficulties. The speaker encourages the audience to hold on to Jesus, trust in Him, and not give up, as God can open their eyes to see the invisible and renew their strength every day.
Ephesians 1 - (Part 1)
By Paul Washer1.4K1:22:23Expositional2CO 5:7HEB 11:1HEB 11:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the amazing nature of the preaching of the word of God. The book of Ephesians is highlighted as a guide for living the Christian life. The first three chapters focus on what God has done for believers in Christ, while the fourth chapter urges them to live according to their high calling. The preacher emphasizes the importance of knowing and experiencing Christ personally, and encourages believers to have faith and renew their minds in the word of God.
Living by Human Sight or Spiritual Light
By Peter Masters1.3K32:38PSA 119:105JHN 20:29ROM 10:172CO 5:7EPH 2:8HEB 11:1This sermon emphasizes the contrast between living solely by human sight, focusing on material and temporary things, and living by faith in God's Word, which reveals eternal truths and spiritual realities. It highlights the limitations of human sight in understanding spiritual matters, salvation, and the need for God's guidance. The speaker urges listeners to embrace faith in God's plan for salvation through Jesus Christ, emphasizing the transformation and blessings that come from walking by faith.
Glory: Wanting It, Getting It, Having It
By Peter Jensen1.3K54:13GloryGEN 12:1MAT 6:33MAT 19:26ROM 8:182CO 5:7HEB 11:11PE 1:4In this sermon, the speaker discusses the theme of glory and its significance in the context of funerals. The speaker mentions that funerals are a professional interest for clergy and shares that there are often funny stories associated with them. The speaker then delves into the idea of glory, emphasizing the importance of wanting, getting, and having glory. The sermon also touches on the concept of death and dying, and the role of the gospel in understanding and navigating these subjects.
Paul Before Agrippa - Part 6
By Joshua Daniel1.1K09:38ACT 22:15ACT 22:171CO 16:132CO 5:7HEB 10:35HEB 11:6JAS 1:21PE 1:7This sermon emphasizes the importance of faith and endurance in witnessing for God, even in the face of challenges and opposition. It highlights the need to trust in God's guidance and to be willing to make sacrifices for His work, regardless of the circumstances or resources available. The speaker shares personal experiences of relying on faith, following God's leading, and persevering in spreading the message of the Gospel.
Obedient Faith
By Teresa Conlon1.1K59:35GEN 22:7MAT 6:33ROM 10:172CO 5:7HEB 11:6JAS 2:17In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of obedient faith in the lives of believers. He emphasizes that every person who belongs to Jesus Christ has been given a measure of faith. However, it is God's desire for this faith to be active and alive, just like a child. The speaker shares a personal testimony of initially feeling resistant to doing something for the Lord, but eventually realizing the need for obedience and surrender. He encourages listeners to seek the fear of God and to value His voice above all else.
We Walk by Faith, Not by Sight
By Zac Poonen1.1K47:23PSA 106:12MAT 16:17JHN 20:29ROM 10:9ROM 10:172CO 5:7EPH 1:18This sermon emphasizes the importance of walking by faith and not by sight, highlighting the need to trust in God's Word and believe without always seeing physical evidence. It discusses the significance of having childlike faith, humility, and honesty in approaching God, as well as the power of God's love, the triumph of Christ's resurrection, and the need to be saved from sin. The message encourages resting in God's strength and promises, especially in the face of increasing evil in the world.
Faith May 2007
By Bill McLeod1.0K14:40Faith2CO 5:71TI 1:5HEB 11:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having faith in God's promises. He mentions that there are 24 promises in Galatians chapter three alone, and encourages the audience to have a faith walk. The preacher also highlights the connection between faith and love, stating that true faith works by love. He quotes Spurgeon, who describes faith as the soul at rest in the love of God. Additionally, the preacher mentions the importance of doing everything in faith, as anything done without faith is considered sin according to Romans 14:3.
My Expectation Is From the Lord - Part 1
By Joshua Daniel88628:30PSA 27:14PSA 62:5PRO 3:5MAT 21:22MRK 11:242CO 5:7EPH 3:20HEB 11:6JAS 1:6This sermon by Joshua Daniel emphasizes the importance of having high expectations and faith in God, contrasting it with the low expectations and lack of faith prevalent in society. He challenges listeners to prioritize their relationship with God above all else, highlighting the need for genuine faith and dedication in seeking God's will. The message calls for a transformation in mindset, urging individuals to anchor their faith unshakably in Jesus and seek the real, transformative power of God in their lives.
A Message to Sunday School Teachers
By Frank Knox81631:27ISA 53:6MAT 6:332CO 5:7PHP 4:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching the word of God and not wasting time during the week. He encourages the audience to respect God and not to make little of the Bible. The preacher advises against telling fictional stories and instead suggests using illustrations from the Bible. He also urges the audience to pray for more sympathy and precious feed from God. The sermon includes personal anecdotes and references to Isaiah 53:6.
Levels of Faith
By Manley Beasley71540:10FaithPSA 46:10PRO 3:5MAT 6:33ROM 10:172CO 5:7HEB 11:6JAS 1:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of faith in getting in touch with God and experiencing His miraculous work in our lives. He encourages listeners to choose to believe in God, even when faced with failures and doubts. The speaker references the 11th chapter of Hebrews as a key chapter that highlights the role of faith in God's movement. He also emphasizes the obligation to believe God when we have a problem and can find a promise in the Bible that fits that problem. The sermon emphasizes the constant presence of Jesus in our lives and the ability of the Holy Spirit to make the words of the Bible relevant to our individual situations.
Fren-13 Fondements Apostoliques - L'ternit
By Art Katz6751:05:46ApostolicMAT 6:33ROM 5:212CO 4:162CO 4:182CO 5:72CO 5:17In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of walking in the light of God and expressing one's faith boldly, even if it goes against societal norms of politeness and good taste. The sermon then shifts to discussing the topic of eternity and the paradox of the church, where heavenly things are manifested through earthly vessels. The preacher prays for heavenly assistance and acknowledges the weariness of himself and his brother, highlighting the need for humility and reliance on God's strength. The sermon concludes with a call to recognize the reality of the spiritual realm and the importance of preaching the truth of Christ and his crucifixion to all nations.
Building Leadership
By Kevin Rhodes65436:46LeadershipNEH 2:11NEH 2:18JER 6:14JHN 17:17ACT 20:262CO 5:7JUD 1:3REV 3:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of convincing people to follow God's way through a study of His word. They highlight the need for leaders to inspire confidence and get others excited about being a part of God's work. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of not running away from controversy and facing the reality of the situation. They encourage leaders to persevere and not give up when faced with challenges, using the example of Paul's attitude in Second Timothy. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the role of leaders in guiding others and staying committed to God's way.
Isaiah 9:6
By Joseph Carroll2736:09Christian LifeTrust in GodFaithPSA 55:22PRO 3:5ISA 9:6MAT 11:28JHN 14:27ROM 14:232CO 5:7PHP 4:6HEB 11:61PE 5:7Joseph Carroll emphasizes the significance of faith in the life of a believer, drawing from Isaiah 9:6 to illustrate the attributes of Christ as Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and Prince of Peace. He recounts the transformative power of faith through the story of Charles Grandison Finney and the life of Miss Gladys Dieterle, who exemplified trust in God's authority and responsibility. Carroll encourages believers to place their burdens on Christ, affirming that true faith leads to a life of rest and peace, as it acknowledges God's sovereignty in all situations. He challenges the congregation to live a life that is fully trusting in God, which is the only life that pleases Him. The sermon concludes with a call to commit to a life of faith and reliance on God's guidance.
Your Labor Is Not in Vain
By Shane Idleman1244:23FaithfulnessPerseveranceMAT 7:7ROM 8:281CO 15:582CO 5:7GAL 6:9EPH 3:20PHP 4:61TH 5:16HEB 11:1JAS 1:12Shane Idleman emphasizes that our labor for God is never in vain, drawing inspiration from the perseverance of historical figures like Abraham Lincoln, who faced numerous failures before achieving greatness. He encourages believers to trust in God's timing and to remain steadfast in faith, even when results are not immediately visible. Idleman highlights the importance of prayer and the power of the Holy Spirit in sustaining our efforts, reminding us that our struggles and prayers contribute to a greater purpose. He concludes with a call to remain immovable and committed to the work of the Lord, assuring that our efforts will bear fruit in due time.
The Finisher of Our Faith
By A.B. Simpson2PerseveranceFaithPSA 37:5ISA 40:31MAT 17:20ROM 10:172CO 5:7GAL 2:20PHP 1:6HEB 12:2JAS 1:21PE 1:7A.B. Simpson emphasizes that Jesus is both the Author and Finisher of our faith, illustrating how Christ serves as the ultimate example of faith through His life, trials, and triumphs. He explains that Jesus not only inspires our faith through His words and works but also actively sustains and educates it through our trials. Simpson encourages believers to look to Jesus for strength and guidance, reminding them that faith is a journey where we must run with patience, keeping our eyes fixed on Him. He concludes by urging the congregation to live out their faith practically in their daily lives, reflecting the love and teachings of Christ.
Keep on Walking
By Neil Anderson1PSA 119:105PRO 3:5ISA 50:102CO 5:7HEB 11:1Neil Anderson preaches about the importance of continuing to trust in the Lord and rely on Him even in times of darkness and uncertainty when His blessings seem suspended. He shares personal experiences of going through dark periods and emphasizes the need to keep walking in faith, holding onto the truths revealed in the light and not making major decisions in moments of despair. Anderson encourages believers to persevere, knowing that God's conscious presence may seem distant but He remains faithful, guiding them through the darkness with His truth.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For we walk by faith - While we are in the present state faith supplies the place of direct vision. In the future world we shall have sight - the utmost evidence of spiritual and eternal things; as we shall be present with them, and live in them. Here we have the testimony of God, and believe in their reality, because we cannot doubt his word. And to make this more convincing he gives us the earnest of his Spirit, which is a foretaste of glory.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
we walk--in our Christian course here on earth. not by sight--Greek, "not by appearance." Our life is governed by faith in our immortal hope; not by the outward specious appearance of present things [TITTMANN, Greek Synonyms of the New Testament]. Compare "apparently," the Septuagint, "by appearance," Num 12:8. WAHL supports English Version. Co2 4:18 also confirms it (compare Rom 8:24; Co1 13:12-13). God has appointed in this life faith for our great duty, and in the next, vision for our reward [SOUTH] (Pe1 1:8).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For we walk by faith, and not by sight. Faith is a grace which answers many useful purposes; it is the eye of the soul, by which it looks to Christ for righteousness, peace, pardon, life, and salvation; the hand by which it receives him, and the foot by which it goes to him, and walks in him as it has received him; which denotes not a single act of faith, but a continued course of believing; and is expressive, not of a weak, but of a strong steady faith of glory and happiness, and of interest in it: and it is opposed to "sight": by which is meant, not sensible communion, but the celestial vision: there is something of sight in faith; that is a seeing of the Son; and it is an evidence of things not seen, of the invisible glories of the other world; faith looks at, and has a glimpse of things not seen, which are eternal; but it is but seeing as through a glass darkly; it is not that full sight, face to face, which will be had hereafter, when faith is turned into vision. For we walk by faith, and not by sight. Faith is a grace which answers many useful purposes; it is the eye of the soul, by which it looks to Christ for righteousness, peace, pardon, life, and salvation; the hand by which it receives him, and the foot by which it goes to him, and walks in him as it has received him; which denotes not a single act of faith, but a continued course of believing; and is expressive, not of a weak, but of a strong steady faith of glory and happiness, and of interest in it: and it is opposed to "sight": by which is meant, not sensible communion, but the celestial vision: there is something of sight in faith; that is a seeing of the Son; and it is an evidence of things not seen, of the invisible glories of the other world; faith looks at, and has a glimpse of things not seen, which are eternal; but it is but seeing as through a glass darkly; it is not that full sight, face to face, which will be had hereafter, when faith is turned into vision. 2 Corinthians 5:8 co2 5:8 co2 5:8 co2 5:8We are confident, I say, and willing rather,.... We are cheerful in our present state, being assured of future happiness; though we choose rather to be absent from the body; that is, to die, to depart out of this world. The interval between death, and the resurrection, is a state of absence from the body, during which time the soul is disembodied, and exists in a separate state; not in a state of inactivity and sleep, for that would not be desirable, but of happiness and glory, enjoying the presence of God, and praising of him, believing and waiting for the resurrection of the body, when both will be united together again; and after that there will be no more absence, neither from the body, nor from the Lord: and to be present with the Lord. This was promised to Christ in the everlasting covenant, that all his spiritual seed and offspring should be with him. This he expected; it was the joy of this which was set before him, that carried him through his sufferings and death with so much cheerfulness; this is the sum of his prayers and intercession, and what all his preparations in heaven are on the account of. It is this which supports and comforts the saints under all their sorrows here, and which makes them meet death with pleasure, which otherwise is formidable and disagreeable to nature; and even desirous of parting with life, to be with Christ, which is far better.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:7 Our hope for future resurrection can only be known by faith (see Heb 11:1, 3, 27), yet we do have Jesus’ own resurrection and the presence of the Holy Spirit as evidence of what is to come (1 Cor 15:1-9; Eph 1:14).