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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>2 Corinthians 6:4 Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships, and calamities;</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/2_corinthians/6-4.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/15/47_2Co_06_04.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="2 Corinthians 6:4 - Paul's Hardships and God's Grace" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships, and calamities;" /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader-revcatch.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script><script>(function(w,d,b,s,i){var cts=d.createElement(s);cts.async=true;cts.id='catchscript'; cts.dataset.appid=i;cts.src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/catch_rp.js?cb='+Math.random(); document.head.appendChild(cts); }) (window,document,'head','script','rc-anksrH');</script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/2_corinthians/6-4.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/2_corinthians/6-4.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/2_corinthians/">2 Corinthians</a> > <a href="/2_corinthians/6.htm">Chapter 6</a> > Verse 4</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad4.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/2_corinthians/6-3.htm" title="2 Corinthians 6:3">◄</a> 2 Corinthians 6:4 <a href="/2_corinthians/6-5.htm" title="2 Corinthians 6:5">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#audio" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Audio Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Cross </a> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Study Bible"> Study </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comm </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/6.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/6.htm">New International Version</a> Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses; <a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/6.htm">New Living Translation</a> In everything we do, we show that we are true ministers of God. We patiently endure troubles and hardships and calamities of every kind. <a href="/esv/2_corinthians/6.htm">English Standard Version</a> but as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: by great endurance, in afflictions, hardships, calamities, <a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/6.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships, and calamities; <a href="/blb/2_corinthians/6.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> in everything, rather, we are commending ourselves as God's servants: in great endurance, in tribulations, in hardships, in distresses; <a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/6.htm">King James Bible</a> But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, <a href="/nkjv/2_corinthians/6.htm">New King James Version</a> But in all things we commend ourselves as ministers of God: in much patience, in tribulations, in needs, in distresses, <a href="/nasb_/2_corinthians/6.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> but in everything commending ourselves as servants of God, in much endurance, in afflictions, in hardships, in difficulties, <a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/6.htm">NASB 1995</a> but in everything commending ourselves as servants of God, in much endurance, in afflictions, in hardships, in distresses, <a href="/nasb77/2_corinthians/6.htm">NASB 1977 </a> but in everything commending ourselves as servants of God, in much endurance, in afflictions, in hardships, in distresses, <a href="/lsb/2_corinthians/6.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> but in everything commending ourselves as ministers of God, in much perseverance, in afflictions, in distresses, in hardships, <a href="/amp/2_corinthians/6.htm">Amplified Bible</a> but we commend ourselves in every way as servants of God: in great endurance, in sufferings, in hardships, in distresses, <a href="/csb/2_corinthians/6.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Instead, as God’s ministers, we commend ourselves in everything: by great endurance, by afflictions, by hardships, by difficulties, <a href="/hcsb/2_corinthians/6.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> But as God&#8217s ministers, we commend ourselves in everything: by great endurance, by afflictions, by hardship, by difficulties, <a href="/asv/2_corinthians/6.htm">American Standard Version</a> but in everything commending ourselves, as ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, <a href="/cev/2_corinthians/6.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> But in everything and in every way we show we truly are God's servants. We have always been patient, though we have had a lot of trouble, suffering, and hard times. <a href="/erv/2_corinthians/6.htm">English Revised Version</a> but in everything commending ourselves, as ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, <a href="/gwt/2_corinthians/6.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Instead, our lives demonstrate that we are God's servants. We have endured many things: suffering, distress, anxiety, <a href="/gnt/2_corinthians/6.htm">Good News Translation</a> Instead, in everything we do we show that we are God's servants by patiently enduring troubles, hardships, and difficulties. <a href="/isv/2_corinthians/6.htm">International Standard Version</a> Instead, in every way we demonstrate that we are God's servants by tremendous endurance in the midst of difficulties, hardships, and calamities; <a href="/net/2_corinthians/6.htm">NET Bible</a> But as God's servants, we have commended ourselves in every way, with great endurance, in persecutions, in difficulties, in distresses, <a href="/nheb/2_corinthians/6.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> but in everything commending ourselves, as servants of God, in great endurance, in afflictions, in hardships, in distresses, <a href="/wbt/2_corinthians/6.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, <a href="/wey/2_corinthians/6.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> On the contrary, as God's servants, we seek their full approval--by unwearied endurance, by afflictions, by distress, by helplessness;<div class="vheading2">Majority Text Translations</div><a href="/msb/2_corinthians/6.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships, and calamities; <a href="/web/2_corinthians/6.htm">World English Bible</a> but in everything commending ourselves as servants of God: in great endurance, in afflictions, in hardships, in distresses, <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/2_corinthians/6.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> but in everything recommending ourselves as God’s servants; in much patience, in tribulations, in necessities, in distresses, <a href="/blb/2_corinthians/6.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> in everything, rather, we are commending ourselves as God's servants: in great endurance, in tribulations, in hardships, in distresses; <a href="/ylt/2_corinthians/6.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> but in everything recommending ourselves as God's ministrants; in much patience, in tribulations, in necessities, in distresses, <a href="/slt/2_corinthians/6.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> But in every thing recommending ourselves as servants of God, in much patience, in pressures, in necessities, in extremities,<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/2_corinthians/6.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> But in all things let us exhibit ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in tribulation, in necessities, in distresses, <a href="/cpdv/2_corinthians/6.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> But in all things, let us exhibit ourselves as ministers of God with great patience: through tribulation, difficulties, and distress; <a href="/nabre/2_corinthians/6.htm">New American Bible</a> on the contrary, in everything we commend ourselves as ministers of God, through much endurance, in afflictions, hardships, constraints, <a href="/nrsvce/2_corinthians/6.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> but as servants of God we have commended ourselves in every way: through great endurance, in afflictions, hardships, calamities,<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/2_corinthians/6.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> But in all things let us show ourselves, to be the ministers of God, in much patience, in tribulations, in necessities, in imprisonment, <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/2_corinthians/6.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> But in everything we shall show ourselves to be Ministers of God: by much patience, by sufferings, by distresses, by imprisonments,<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/2_corinthians/6.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> but in all things we commend ourselves as the ministers of God, in much suffering, in afflictions, in distresses, in straits, <a href="/godbey/2_corinthians/6.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> but in everything commending ourselves, as the ministers of God, in much patience, in tribulations, in straits, in difficulties, <a href="/haweis/2_corinthians/6.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> but in every thing approving ourselves as ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in straits, <a href="/mace/2_corinthians/6.htm">Mace New Testament</a> but in all things I approve myself as the minister of God, by great constancy in afflictions, in torments, in distresses, from stripes, <a href="/wey/2_corinthians/6.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> On the contrary, as God's servants, we seek their full approval--by unwearied endurance, by afflictions, by distress, by helplessness; <a href="/worrell/2_corinthians/6.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> but in everything commending ourselves as God's ministers, in much patience, in tribulations, in necessities, in distresses, <a href="/worsley/2_corinthians/6.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> but in every thing approving ourselves as the ministers of God; by much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in straits, <a href="/parallel/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ddheG4hMg28?start=985" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/6.htm">Paul's Hardships and God's Grace</a> …3We put no obstacle in anyone’s way, so that no one can discredit our ministry. 4<a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: all’ (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise.">Rather,</a> <a href="/greek/5613.htm" title="5613: hōs (Adv) -- Probably adverb of comparative from hos; which how, i.e. In that manner.">as</a> <a href="/greek/1249.htm" title="1249: diakonoi (N-NMP) -- Probably from an obsolete diako; an attendant, i.e. a waiter; specially, a Christian teacher and pastor.">servants</a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theou (N-GMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">of God</a> <a href="/greek/4921.htm" title="4921: synistanontes (V-PPA-NMP) -- To place together, commend, prove, exhibit; instrans: I stand with; To be composed of, cohere. ">we commend</a> <a href="/greek/1438.htm" title="1438: heautous (RefPro-AM3P) -- Himself, herself, itself. ">ourselves</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">in</a> <a href="/greek/3956.htm" title="3956: panti (Adj-DNS) -- All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole.">every way:</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">in</a> <a href="/greek/4183.htm" title="4183: pollē (Adj-DFS) -- Much, many; often. ">great</a> <a href="/greek/5281.htm" title="5281: hypomonē (N-DFS) -- Endurance, steadfastness, patient waiting for. From hupomeno; cheerful endurance, constancy.">endurance;</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">in</a> <a href="/greek/2347.htm" title="2347: thlipsesin (N-DFP) -- Persecution, affliction, distress, tribulation. From thlibo; pressure.">troubles,</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc."></a> <a href="/greek/318.htm" title="318: anankais (N-DFP) -- From ana and the base of agkale; constraint; by implication, distress.">hardships,</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">and</a> <a href="/greek/4730.htm" title="4730: stenochōriais (N-DFP) -- A narrow space, great distress, anguish. From a compound of stenos and chora; narrowness of room, i.e. calamity.">calamities;</a> 5in beatings, imprisonments, and riots; in labor, sleepless nights, and hunger;…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/2_corinthians/11-23.htm">2 Corinthians 11:23-28</a> Are they servants of Christ? (I am speaking as if I were out of my mind.) I am so much more: in harder labor, in more imprisonments, in worse beatings, in frequent danger of death. / Five times I received from the Jews the forty lashes minus one. / Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked. I spent a night and a day in the open sea. ... <a href="/1_corinthians/4-9.htm">1 Corinthians 4:9-13</a> For it seems to me that God has displayed us apostles at the end of the procession, like prisoners appointed for death. We have become a spectacle to the whole world, to angels as well as to men. / We are fools for Christ, but you are wise in Christ. We are weak, but you are strong. You are honored, but we are dishonored. / To this very hour we are hungry and thirsty, we are poorly clothed, we are brutally treated, we are homeless. ... <a href="/acts/20-19.htm">Acts 20:19</a> I served the Lord with great humility and with tears, especially in the trials that came upon me through the plots of the Jews. <a href="/romans/8-35.htm">Romans 8:35-39</a> Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? / As it is written: “For Your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” / No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. ... <a href="/philippians/1-29.htm">Philippians 1:29-30</a> For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for Him, / since you are encountering the same struggle you saw I had, and now hear that I still have. <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-9.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:9</a> Surely you recall, brothers, our labor and toil. We worked night and day so that we would not be a burden to anyone while we proclaimed to you the gospel of God. <a href="/2_timothy/2-3.htm">2 Timothy 2:3-10</a> Join me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. / A soldier refrains from entangling himself in civilian affairs, in order to please the one who enlisted him. / Likewise, a competitor does not receive the crown unless he competes according to the rules. ... <a href="/1_peter/4-12.htm">1 Peter 4:12-16</a> Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial that has come upon you, as though something strange were happening to you. / But rejoice that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed at the revelation of His glory. / If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. ... <a href="/james/1-2.htm">James 1:2-4</a> Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, / 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. <a href="/hebrews/10-32.htm">Hebrews 10:32-34</a> Remember the early days that you were in the light. In those days, you endured a great conflict in the face of suffering. / Sometimes you were publicly exposed to ridicule and persecution; at other times you were partners with those who were so treated. / You sympathized with those in prison and joyfully accepted the confiscation of your property, knowing that you yourselves had a better and permanent possession. <a href="/isaiah/53-3.htm">Isaiah 53:3-5</a> He was despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows, acquainted with grief. Like one from whom men hide their faces, He was despised, and we esteemed Him not. / Surely He took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows; yet we considered Him stricken, struck down by God, and afflicted. / But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed. <a href="/jeremiah/20-2.htm">Jeremiah 20:2</a> he had Jeremiah the prophet beaten and put in the stocks at the Upper Gate of Benjamin, which was by the house of the LORD. <a href="/psalms/34-19.htm">Psalm 34:19</a> Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him from them all. <a href="/psalms/44-22.htm">Psalm 44:22</a> Yet for Your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered. <a href="/job/13-15.htm">Job 13:15</a> Though He slay me, I will hope in Him. I will still defend my ways to His face.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,in all.<a href="/2_corinthians/2-17.htm">2 Corinthians 2:17</a> For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.<a href="/2_corinthians/7-11.htm">2 Corinthians 7:11</a> For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.<a href="/acts/2-22.htm">Acts 2:22</a> Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know:approving.<a href="/2_corinthians/4-2.htm">2 Corinthians 4:2</a> But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.<a href="/romans/5-8.htm">Romans 5:8</a> But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.as.<a href="/2_corinthians/3-6.htm">2 Corinthians 3:6</a> Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.<a href="/2_corinthians/11-23.htm">2 Corinthians 11:23</a> Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft.<a href="/isaiah/61-6.htm">Isaiah 61:6</a> But ye shall be named the Priests of the LORD: men shall call you the Ministers of our God: ye shall eat the riches of the Gentiles, and in their glory shall ye boast yourselves.in much.<a href="/2_corinthians/12-12.htm">2 Corinthians 12:12</a> Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds.<a href="/luke/21-19.htm">Luke 21:19</a> In your patience possess ye your souls.<a href="/romans/5-3.htm">Romans 5:3,4</a> And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; … afflictions.<a href="/2_corinthians/4-17.htm">2 Corinthians 4:17</a> For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;<a href="/acts/20-23.htm">Acts 20:23,24</a> Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me… <a href="/colossians/1-24.htm">Colossians 1:24</a> Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church:necessities.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/acts/20-23.htm">Afflictions</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-12.htm">Approval</a> <a href="/acts/22-20.htm">Approving</a> <a href="/lamentations/3-38.htm">Calamities</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-2.htm">Clear</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-12.htm">Commend</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-12.htm">Commending</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/2-17.htm">Contrary</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-8.htm">Distress</a> <a href="/ezekiel/30-16.htm">Distresses</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-6.htm">Endurance</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-12.htm">Full</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-2.htm">God's</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-12.htm">Great</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-8.htm">Hardships</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-20.htm">Making</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-6.htm">Ministers</a> <a href="/romans/12-13.htm">Necessities</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-1.htm">Need</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-13.htm">Ourselves</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/13-4.htm">Patience</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-6.htm">Quiet</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-8.htm">Rather</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/14-12.htm">Seek</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-5.htm">Servants</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/2-7.htm">Sorrow</a> <a href="/lamentations/1-3.htm">Straits</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-8.htm">Strength</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-17.htm">Troubles</a> <a href="/colossians/4-2.htm">Unwearied</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-3.htm">Way</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/colossians/1-24.htm">Afflictions</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-12.htm">Approval</a> <a href="/acts/22-20.htm">Approving</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-10.htm">Calamities</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-11.htm">Clear</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-12.htm">Commend</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-18.htm">Commending</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-4.htm">Contrary</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-13.htm">Distress</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-10.htm">Distresses</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-12.htm">Endurance</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-10.htm">Full</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-9.htm">God's</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-4.htm">Great</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-10.htm">Hardships</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-10.htm">Making</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-15.htm">Ministers</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-10.htm">Necessities</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-2.htm">Need</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-1.htm">Ourselves</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-6.htm">Patience</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-1.htm">Quiet</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-12.htm">Rather</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-21.htm">Seek</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-4.htm">Servants</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-10.htm">Sorrow</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-10.htm">Straits</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-9.htm">Strength</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-10.htm">Troubles</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-7.htm">Unwearied</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-5.htm">Way</a><div class="vheading2">2 Corinthians 6</div>1. <a href="/2_corinthians/6-1.htm">That he has approved himself a faithful minister of Christ by his exhortations,</a> 3. <a href="/2_corinthians/6-3.htm">and by integrity of life,</a> 4. <a href="/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">and by patiently enduring all kinds of affliction and disgrace for the gospel.</a> 10. <a href="/2_corinthians/6-10.htm">Of which he speaks the more boldly amongst them because his heart is open to them,</a> 13. <a href="/2_corinthians/6-13.htm">and he expects the like affection from them again;</a> 14. <a href="/2_corinthians/6-14.htm">exhorting them to flee the society and pollutions of idolaters, </a> 17. <a href="/2_corinthians/6-17.htm">as being themselves temples of the living God.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_corinthians/6.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_corinthians/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/2_corinthians/6.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Rather, as servants of God This phrase emphasizes the identity and role of believers as servants, or ministers, of God. The term "servants" reflects a position of humility and dedication, echoing the biblical theme of servanthood seen in figures like Moses (<a href="/deuteronomy/34-5.htm">Deuteronomy 34:5</a>) and Jesus Christ (<a href="/philippians/2-7.htm">Philippians 2:7</a>). The concept of servanthood is central to Christian life, where believers are called to serve God and others, following the example of Christ who came not to be served, but to serve (<a href="/mark/10-45.htm">Mark 10:45</a>).we commend ourselves in every way Paul speaks of commending oneself, which means to present oneself as worthy of respect or approval. This is not about boasting but demonstrating integrity and faithfulness in ministry. The apostle Paul often defended his ministry against accusations and misunderstandings (<a href="/2_corinthians/3.htm">2 Corinthians 3:1-3</a>). The phrase suggests a life that reflects the values and teachings of Christ, serving as a testament to the transformative power of the Gospel.in great endurance Endurance is a recurring theme in Paul's letters, highlighting the need for perseverance in the face of trials. This endurance is not merely human effort but is empowered by the Holy Spirit (<a href="/romans/5-3.htm">Romans 5:3-5</a>). The early church faced persecution and hardship, and endurance was essential for maintaining faith and witness. This endurance is also a reflection of Christ's own perseverance through suffering (<a href="/hebrews/12-2.htm">Hebrews 12:2-3</a>).in troubles, hardships, and calamities These terms describe the various forms of suffering and challenges faced by Paul and early Christians. "Troubles" can refer to general afflictions, "hardships" to more specific difficulties, and "calamities" to severe trials. The early church often faced persecution from both Jewish and Roman authorities, as well as internal conflicts (<a href="/acts/14-22.htm">Acts 14:22</a>). These experiences are part of the Christian journey, where believers are called to share in Christ's sufferings (<a href="/philippians/3-10.htm">Philippians 3:10</a>) and rely on God's strength to overcome them.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul_the_apostle.htm">Paul the Apostle</a> The author of 2 Corinthians, Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, addressing issues of ministry, suffering, and the Christian life. 2. <a href="/topical/c/corinth.htm">Corinth</a> A major city in ancient Greece, known for its wealth and immorality. The church in Corinth faced many challenges, both internally and externally. 3. <a href="/topical/s/servants_of_god.htm">Servants of God</a> Refers to Paul and his companions, but by extension, all believers who are called to serve God faithfully. 4. <a href="/topical/e/endurance.htm">Endurance</a> A key theme in Paul's ministry, highlighting the perseverance required in the face of trials. 5. <a href="/topical/t/troubles,_hardships,_and_calamities.htm">Troubles, Hardships, and Calamities</a> These terms describe the various forms of suffering and challenges faced by Paul and his companions in their ministry.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/e/endurance_as_a_mark_of_true_servanthood.htm">Endurance as a Mark of True Servanthood</a> True servants of God are identified by their ability to endure through trials. This endurance is not passive but active, relying on God's strength. <a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_suffering_in_the_christian_life.htm">The Role of Suffering in the Christian Life</a> Suffering is not meaningless; it serves a purpose in refining our faith and drawing us closer to God. It is a tool for spiritual growth. <a href="/topical/c/commending_ourselves_through_actions.htm">Commending Ourselves through Actions</a> Our actions, especially in difficult times, serve as a testimony to our faith and commitment to God. We commend ourselves by how we handle adversity. <a href="/topical/r/reliance_on_god's_strength.htm">Reliance on God's Strength</a> In facing troubles, hardships, and calamities, believers are called to rely on God's strength rather than their own. This reliance is a testament to our faith. <a href="/topical/t/the_witness_of_endurance.htm">The Witness of Endurance</a> Our endurance in trials serves as a powerful witness to others, demonstrating the reality of our faith and the power of God at work in us.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_2_corinthians_6.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 2 Corinthians 6</a> <a href="/q/do_non-biblical_texts_confirm_2_cor_6_4-5.htm">Are there any historical documents outside the Bible that corroborate Paul’s account of hardship in 2 Corinthians 6:4–5?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_'hashem'_mean.htm">Will any weapon formed against you prosper?</a> <a href="/q/is_this_more_than_we_can_handle.htm">Is this more than we can handle?</a> <a href="/q/why_do_the_righteous_face_poverty.htm">In Psalm 37:25 ('I have not seen the righteous forsaken'), why do historical records reveal numerous cases where faithful people faced dire poverty or were seemingly abandoned?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_corinthians/6.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(4) But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God.--Better, as keeping up the connection with <a href="/2_corinthians/3-1.htm" title="Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, letters of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you?">2Corinthians 3:1</a>; <a href="/2_corinthians/5-12.htm" title="For we commend not ourselves again to you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that you may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart.">2Corinthians 5:12</a>, as ministers of God commending ourselves. He harps, as it were, upon that phrase. Yes, he does commend himself; but how? He looks back on his life of labour and sufferings and challenges comparison. Can others, with their letters of commendation, point to anything like this? The word "ministers" in the Greek is in the nominative case, while the English at least suggests that it is in the objective after the verb. What he means is that he, as the minister of God should do, commends himself by acts and not by words. It is obvious that what follows was likely to expose him to a repetition of the cynical sneer, but of this his generous indignation makes him nobly regardless.In much patience . . .--Better, as elsewhere, endurance. The word has a much stronger meaning than our English "patience." (See Notes on <a href="/luke/8-15.htm" title="But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.">Luke 8:15</a>; <a href="/luke/21-19.htm" title="In your patience possess you your souls.">Luke 21:19</a>.) The general term is naturally followed by a specification of details. It is not, perhaps, easy to specify what he refers to under each head. Possibly he used such words, as we habitually use them, without a formal classification. The root-idea of the first word of the triad is that of being pressed upon; of the second, that of a constraint that leaves no choice of action; of the third, that of being so hemmed in that there is no room to move.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_corinthians/6.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 4. - Approving ourselves; rather, commending ourselves, He is again referring to the insinuation, which had evidently caused him deep pain, that he was not authorized to preach, as his Judaic opponents were, by "letters of commendation" (<a href="/2_corinthians/3-1.htm">2 Corinthians 3:1-3</a>) from James or from the ciders at Jerusalem. His credentials came from God, who had enabled him to be so faithful. As the ministers of God (<a href="/1_corinthians/4-1.htm">1 Corinthians 4:1</a>). The article should be omitted. In much patience. Christ had forewarned his apostles that they would have much to endure, and had strengthened them by the promise that "he that endureth to the end shall be saved" (<a href="/matthew/10-22.htm">Matthew 10:22</a>). In afflictions. This word, as we have seen, is one of the haunting words in <a href="/2_corinthians/1-4.htm">2 Corinthians 1:4-11</a>. In necessities. St, Paul was poor, and was often in want (<a href="/acts/20-34.htm">Acts 20:34</a>). In distresses. The same word which occurs in <a href="/2_corinthians/4-8.htm">2 Corinthians 4:8</a>. It means "extreme pressure" (literally, narrowness of space), and is a climax of the other words. <a href="/commentaries/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>Rather, ἀλλ’ (all’) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_235.htm">Strong's 235: </a> But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. as ὡς (hōs) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_5613.htm">Strong's 5613: </a> Probably adverb of comparative from hos; which how, i.e. In that manner. servants διάκονοι (diakonoi) Noun - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1249.htm">Strong's 1249: </a> Probably from an obsolete diako; an attendant, i.e. a waiter; specially, a Christian teacher and pastor. of God Θεοῦ (Theou) Noun - Genitive Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very. we commend συνιστάνοντες (synistanontes) Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4921.htm">Strong's 4921: </a> To place together, commend, prove, exhibit; instrans: I stand with; To be composed of, cohere. ourselves ἑαυτοὺς (heautous) Reflexive Pronoun - Accusative Masculine 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1438.htm">Strong's 1438: </a> Himself, herself, itself. in ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. every way: παντὶ (panti) Adjective - Dative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3956.htm">Strong's 3956: </a> All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole. in ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. great πολλῇ (pollē) Adjective - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_4183.htm">Strong's 4183: </a> Much, many; often. endurance; ὑπομονῇ (hypomonē) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5281.htm">Strong's 5281: </a> Endurance, steadfastness, patient waiting for. From hupomeno; cheerful endurance, constancy. in ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. troubles, θλίψεσιν (thlipsesin) Noun - Dative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2347.htm">Strong's 2347: </a> Persecution, affliction, distress, tribulation. From thlibo; pressure. hardships, ἀνάγκαις (anankais) Noun - Dative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_318.htm">Strong's 318: </a> From ana and the base of agkale; constraint; by implication, distress. [and] ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. calamities; στενοχωρίαις (stenochōriais) Noun - Dative Feminine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4730.htm">Strong's 4730: </a> A narrow space, great distress, anguish. From a compound of stenos and chora; narrowness of room, i.e. calamity. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">2 Corinthians 6:4 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">2 Corinthians 6:4 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">2 Corinthians 6:4 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">2 Corinthians 6:4 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">2 Corinthians 6:4 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">2 Corinthians 6:4 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">2 Corinthians 6:4 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">2 Corinthians 6:4 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">2 Corinthians 6:4 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">2 Corinthians 6:4 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">NT Letters: 2 Corinthians 6:4 But in everything commending ourselves as servants (2 Cor. 2C iiC 2Cor ii cor iicor) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_corinthians/6-3.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Corinthians 6:3"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 6:3" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_corinthians/6-5.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Corinthians 6:5"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 6:5" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>