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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 5:13 If we are out of our mind, it is for God; if we are of sound mind, it is for you.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/2_corinthians/5-13.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/1/47_2Co_05_13.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="2 Corinthians 5:13 - Ambassadors for Christ" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="If we are out of our mind, it is for God; if we are of sound mind, it is for you." /><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/5-13.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/5-13.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/5.htm">Chapter 5</a> > Verse 13</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="/ad13.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/5-12.htm" title="2 Corinthians 5:12">◄</a> 2 Corinthians 5:13 <a href="/2_corinthians/5-14.htm" title="2 Corinthians 5:14">►</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"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/5.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><span class="versiontext"><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/5.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />If we are &#8220out of our mind,&#8221 as some say, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/5.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />If it seems we are crazy, it is to bring glory to God. And if we are in our right minds, it is for your benefit.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/2_corinthians/5.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/5.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />If we are out of our mind, it is for God; if we are of sound mind, it is for you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/2_corinthians/5.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />For if we are beside ourselves, <i>it is</i> to God; or if we are sober-minded <i>it is</i> for you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/5.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />For whether we be beside ourselves, <i>it is</i> to God: or whether we be sober, <i>it is</i> for your cause.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/2_corinthians/5.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />For if we are beside ourselves, <i>it is</i> for God; or if we are of sound mind, <i>it is</i> for you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/2_corinthians/5.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />For if we have lost our minds, <i>it is</i> for God; if we are of sound mind, <i>it is</i> for you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/5.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; if we are of sound mind, it is for you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/2_corinthians/5.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; if we are of sound mind, it is for you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/2_corinthians/5.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />For if we are out of our mind, it is for God, or if we are of right mind, it is for you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/2_corinthians/5.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />If we are out of our mind [just unstable fanatics as some critics say], it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for your benefit.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/2_corinthians/5.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />For if we are out of our mind, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/2_corinthians/5.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />For if we are out of our mind, it is for God; if we have a sound mind, it is for you. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/2_corinthians/5.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />For whether we are beside ourselves, it is unto God; or whether we are of sober mind, it is unto you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/2_corinthians/5.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />If we seem out of our minds, it is between God and us. But if we are in our right minds, it is for your good. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/2_corinthians/5.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />For whether we are beside ourselves, it is unto God; or whether we are of sober mind, it is unto you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/2_corinthians/5.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />So if we were crazy, it was for God. If we are sane, it is for you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/2_corinthians/5.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />Are we really insane? It is for God's sake. Or are we sane? Then it is for your sake. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/2_corinthians/5.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />So if we were crazy, it was for God; if we are sane, it is for you. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/2_corinthians/5.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />If we are out of our mind, it is for God; if we are of sound mind, it is for you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/2_corinthians/5.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />For if we are out of our minds, it is for God; if we are of sound mind, it is for you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/2_corinthians/5.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />For if we are out of control, it is for God. If we are in a reasonable way, it is for you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/2_corinthians/5.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />For whether we are beside ourselves, it is to God: or whether we are sober, it is for your cause.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/2_corinthians/5.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />For if we have been beside ourselves, it has been for God's glory; or if we are now in our right senses, it is in order to be of service to you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/2_corinthians/5.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God. Or if we are of sober mind, it is for you. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/2_corinthians/5.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />for whether we were beside ourselves, [it was] to God; whether we be of sound mind, [it is] to you,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/2_corinthians/5.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />For if we are beside ourselves, <i>it is</i> to God; or if we are sober-minded <i>it is</i> for you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/2_corinthians/5.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> for whether we were beside ourselves, it was to God; whether we be of sound mind -- it is to you,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/2_corinthians/5.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />For whether we be beside ourselves, to God: or be of sound mind, to you.<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/2_corinthians/5.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />For whether we be transported in mind, it is to God; or whether we be sober, it is for you. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/2_corinthians/5.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />For if we are excessive in mind, it is for God; but if we are sober, it is for you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/2_corinthians/5.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />For if we are out of our minds, it is for God; if we are rational, it is for you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/2_corinthians/5.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/2_corinthians/5.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />For if we go wrong, we answer to God, and if we go straight, it is for you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/aramaic-plain-english/2_corinthians/5.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a></span><br />For if we are insane, it is for God, and if we are conventional, it is for you.<div class="vheading2"><b>NT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/anderson/2_corinthians/5.htm">Anderson New Testament</a></span><br />For if we be beside our selves, it is for God; or, if we be of sound mind, it is for you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/godbey/2_corinthians/5.htm">Godbey New Testament</a></span><br />For if we are beside ourselves, it is for God; if we have our right minds, it is for you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/haweis/2_corinthians/5.htm">Haweis New Testament</a></span><br />For if we are transported out of ourselves, it is for God; or if we are sober-minded, it is for your sake.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/mace/2_corinthians/5.htm">Mace New Testament</a></span><br />for if I glory even to transport, my glorying is in God: if I am moderate, my glorying is for your service.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/2_corinthians/5.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />For if we have been beside ourselves, it has been for God's glory; or if we are now in our right senses, it is in order to be of service to you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worrell/2_corinthians/5.htm">Worrell New Testament</a></span><br />For whether we were beside ourselves, it <i>was</i> to God; <i>or</i> whether we are of sober mind, it is for you.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worsley/2_corinthians/5.htm">Worsley New Testament</a></span><br />For whether we be in extasies, <i>it is</i> to God: or if we be composed, it is for your benefit.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/2_corinthians/5-13.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></span></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv"><b>Audio Bible</b></div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ddheG4hMg28?start=864" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><div class="vheadingv"><b>Context</b></div><span class="hdg"><a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/5.htm">Ambassadors for Christ</a></span><br>…<span class="reftext">12</span>We are not commending ourselves to you again. Instead, we are giving you an occasion to be proud of us, so that you can answer those who take pride in appearances rather than in the heart. <span class="reftext">13</span><span class="highl"><a href="/greek/1535.htm" title="1535: Eite (Conj) -- And if, whether. From ei and te; if too.">If</a> <a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason."></a> <a href="/greek/1839.htm" title="1839: exestēmen (V-AIA-1P) -- From ek and histemi; to put out of wits, i.e. Astound, or become astounded, insane.">we are out of our mind,</a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theō (N-DMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">it is for God;</a> <a href="/greek/1535.htm" title="1535: eite (Conj) -- And if, whether. From ei and te; if too.">if</a> <a href="/greek/4993.htm" title="4993: sōphronoumen (V-PIA-1P) -- To be of sound mind, be sober-minded, exercise self-control. From sophron; to be of sound mind, i.e. Sane, moderate.">we are of sound mind,</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: hymin (PPro-D2P) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">it is for you.</a> </span> <span class="reftext">14</span>For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that One died for all, therefore all died.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/26-24.htm">Acts 26:24-25</a></span><br />At this stage of Paul’s defense, Festus exclaimed in a loud voice, “You are insane, Paul! Your great learning is driving you to madness!” / But Paul answered, “I am not insane, most excellent Festus; I am speaking words of truth and sobriety.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/4-10.htm">1 Corinthians 4:10</a></span><br />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.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/11-1.htm">2 Corinthians 11:1</a></span><br />I hope you will put up with a little of my foolishness, but you are already doing that.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/11-16.htm">2 Corinthians 11:16-17</a></span><br />I repeat: Let no one take me for a fool. But if you do, then receive me as a fool, so that I too may boast a little. / In this confident boasting of mine, I am not speaking as the Lord would, but as a fool.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/12-6.htm">2 Corinthians 12:6</a></span><br />Even if I wanted to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be speaking the truth. But I refrain, so no one will credit me with more than he sees in me or hears from me,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/2_corinthians/12-11.htm">2 Corinthians 12:11</a></span><br />I have become a fool, but you drove me to it. In fact, you should have commended me, since I am in no way inferior to those “super-apostles,” even though I am nothing.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/mark/3-21.htm">Mark 3:21</a></span><br />When His family heard about this, they went out to take custody of Him, saying, “He is out of His mind.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/john/10-20.htm">John 10:20</a></span><br />Many of them said, “He is demon-possessed and insane. Why would you listen to Him?”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/2-13.htm">Acts 2:13</a></span><br />But others mocked them and said, “They are drunk on new wine!”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/17-32.htm">Acts 17:32</a></span><br />When they heard about the resurrection of the dead, some began to mock him, but others said, “We want to hear you again on this topic.”<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/1-18.htm">1 Corinthians 1:18</a></span><br />For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/2-14.htm">1 Corinthians 2:14</a></span><br />The natural man does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God. For they are foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them, because they are spiritually discerned.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/3-18.htm">1 Corinthians 3:18</a></span><br />Let no one deceive himself. If any of you thinks he is wise in this age, he should become a fool, so that he may become wise.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/9-22.htm">1 Corinthians 9:22</a></span><br />To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/galatians/1-10.htm">Galatians 1:10</a></span><br />Am I now seeking the approval of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">For whether we be beside ourselves, it is to God: or whether we be sober, it is for your cause.</p><p class="hdg">we be beside.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/11-1.htm">2 Corinthians 11:1,16,17</a></b></br> Would to God ye could bear with me a little in <i>my</i> folly: and indeed bear with me… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/12-6.htm">2 Corinthians 12:6,11</a></b></br> For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but <i>now</i> I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me <i>to be</i>, or <i>that</i> he heareth of me… </p><p class="hdg">See on</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/acts/26-24.htm">Acts 26:24,25</a></b></br> And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_corinthians/4-10.htm">1 Corinthians 4:10-13</a></b></br> We <i>are</i> fools for Christ's sake, but ye <i>are</i> wise in Christ; we <i>are</i> weak, but ye <i>are</i> strong; ye <i>are</i> honourable, but we <i>are</i> despised… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_thessalonians/2-3.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:3-11</a></b></br> For our exhortation <i>was</i> not of deceit, nor of uncleanness, nor in guile: … </p><p class="hdg">it is to.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_samuel/6-21.htm">2 Samuel 6:21,22</a></b></br> And David said unto Michal, <i>It was</i> before the LORD, which chose me before thy father, and before all his house, to appoint me ruler over the people of the LORD, over Israel: therefore will I play before the LORD… </p><p class="hdg">sober.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/acts/26-25.htm">Acts 26:25</a></b></br> But he said, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/romans/12-3.htm">Romans 12:3</a></b></br> For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think <i>of himself</i> more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.</p><p class="hdg">for.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/7-12.htm">2 Corinthians 7:12</a></b></br> Wherefore, though I wrote unto you, <i>I did it</i> not for his cause that had done the wrong, nor for his cause that suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear unto you.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/colossians/1-24.htm">Colossians 1:24</a></b></br> 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:</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_thessalonians/1-5.htm">1 Thessalonians 1:5</a></b></br> For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_corinthians/5-12.htm">Cause</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/15-36.htm">Foolish</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-12.htm">Glory</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-6.htm">God's</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-11.htm">Mind</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-15.htm">Order</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-12.htm">Ourselves</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-11.htm">Right</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-15.htm">Sake</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/15-34.htm">Senses</a> <a href="/romans/12-8.htm">Serious</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-1.htm">Service</a> <a href="/acts/26-25.htm">Sober</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/15-52.htm">Sound</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-10.htm">Whether</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/2_corinthians/6-3.htm">Cause</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-1.htm">Foolish</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-8.htm">Glory</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-21.htm">God's</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-9.htm">Mind</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-15.htm">Order</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">Ourselves</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-7.htm">Right</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-15.htm">Sake</a> <a href="/galatians/5-19.htm">Senses</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-8.htm">Serious</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-3.htm">Service</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/5-6.htm">Sober</a> <a href="/1_thessalonians/4-16.htm">Sound</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-23.htm">Whether</a><div class="vheading2">2 Corinthians 5</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/5-1.htm">That in his assured hope of immortal glory,</a></span><br><span class="reftext">9. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/5-9.htm">and in expectation of it, he labors to keep a good conscience;</a></span><br><span class="reftext">12. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/5-12.htm">not that he may boast of himself,</a></span><br><span class="reftext">14. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/5-14.htm">but as one that, having received life from Christ, </a></span><br><span class="reftext">17. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/5-17.htm">endeavors to live as a new creature to Christ only,</a></span><br><span class="reftext">18. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/5-18.htm">and by his ministry of reconciliation, to reconcile others also in Christ to God.</a></span><br></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><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div><br /><br />  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div><br /><br />  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div><br /><br /> <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> <br /><br /> </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/5.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/5.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>If we are out of our mind, it is for God;</b><br>This phrase reflects the apostle Paul's defense of his ministry and the perception of his actions by others. In the context of 2 Corinthians, Paul addresses accusations and misunderstandings about his behavior and motivations. The phrase "out of our mind" suggests that some might view his fervent dedication and actions as irrational or extreme. This echoes the cultural context of the Greco-Roman world, where public perception and honor were significant. Paul emphasizes that any perceived irrationality is for the sake of God, indicating a deep commitment to divine purposes over human approval. This aligns with other scriptural instances where devotion to God is misunderstood by the world, such as in <a href="/acts/26-24.htm">Acts 26:24</a>, where Paul is accused of being insane due to his passionate testimony. The phrase also connects to the idea of being "fools for Christ" (<a href="/1_corinthians/4-10.htm">1 Corinthians 4:10</a>), highlighting the willingness to endure misunderstanding for the sake of the Gospel.<p><b>if we are of sound mind, it is for you.</b><br>Here, Paul contrasts the previous statement by asserting that when he is perceived as rational and composed, it is for the benefit of the Corinthians. This reflects his pastoral concern and the responsibility he feels towards the church. The phrase "of sound mind" suggests a deliberate and thoughtful approach to ministry, aimed at edifying and building up the believers. This duality in Paul's approach underscores the balance between spiritual fervor and practical wisdom in ministry. It also reflects the broader biblical theme of being "all things to all people" (<a href="/1_corinthians/9-22.htm">1 Corinthians 9:22</a>) to effectively communicate the Gospel. The historical context of Corinth, a city known for its diversity and complexity, required such adaptability in ministry. This phrase reassures the Corinthians of Paul's genuine care and strategic efforts to nurture their faith, aligning with the broader biblical call to shepherd God's people with wisdom and love.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <b><a href="/topical/p/paul_the_apostle.htm">Paul the Apostle</a></b><br>The author of 2 Corinthians, addressing the church in Corinth. Paul is defending his ministry and explaining his actions and motivations.<br><br>2. <b><a href="/topical/c/corinth.htm">Corinth</a></b><br>A major city in ancient Greece, known for its wealth and diversity, but also for its moral challenges. The church in Corinth faced various issues, including divisions and misunderstandings about Paul's teachings.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_corinthian_church.htm">The Corinthian Church</a></b><br>The recipients of Paul's letter, struggling with internal conflicts and external pressures, needing guidance and clarification on spiritual matters.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/d/devotion_to_god_may_seem_foolish.htm">Devotion to God May Seem Foolish</a></b><br>Sometimes, our commitment to God may appear irrational to others. Paul emphasizes that being "out of our mind" is a result of our dedication to God, which may not always align with worldly wisdom.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/b/balancing_zeal_and_wisdom.htm">Balancing Zeal and Wisdom</a></b><br>While fervor for God is commendable, Paul also stresses the importance of being "of sound mind" for the benefit of others. This balance ensures that our actions are both passionate and edifying.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/p/perception_vs._reality.htm">Perception vs. Reality</a></b><br>The way others perceive our faith-driven actions may not always reflect the truth. We must remain steadfast in our purpose, knowing that our ultimate accountability is to God.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/p/purposeful_living.htm">Purposeful Living</a></b><br>Every action, whether it seems radical or reasonable, should be motivated by a desire to glorify God and serve others. This intentionality reflects a mature Christian walk.<a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_corinthians/5.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(13) <span class= "bld">For whether we be beside ourselves.</span>--The recollection of one sneer leads on to another. This also had been said of him, and the intense sensitiveness of his nature made him wince under it. Some there were at Corinth who spoke of his visions and revelations, his speaking with tongues as in ecstasy, his prophecies of future judgment, as so many signs of madness. "He was beside himself." (Comp. Agrippa's words in <a href="/acts/26-24.htm" title="And as he thus spoke for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, you are beside yourself; much learning does make you mad.">Acts 26:24</a>, and Note there.) Others, or, perhaps, the same persons, pointed to his tact, becoming all things to all men, perhaps even insinuated that he was making money by his work (<a href="/2_corinthians/9-12.htm" title="For the administration of this service not only supplies the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings to God;">2Corinthians 9:12</a>; <a href="/2_corinthians/12-10.htm" title="Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.">2Corinthians 12:10</a>): "he was shrewd enough when it served his turn." He answers accordingly both the taunts. What people called his "madness"--the ecstasy of adoration, the speaking with tongues (<a href="/context/1_corinthians/14-18.htm" title="I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than you all:">1Corinthians 14:18-23</a>)--that lay between himself and God, and a stranger might not intermeddle with it. What people called his "sober-mindedness"--his shrewd common sense, his sagacity--that he practised not for himself, but for his disciples, to win them to Christ, remove difficulties, strengthen them in the faith.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_corinthians/5.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 13.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">For whether we be beside ourselves;</span> rather, <span class="accented">for whether we were mad</span>. Evidently some person or some faction had said of St. Paul, "He is beside himself," just as Festus said afterwards, "Paul, thou art mad," and as the Jews said of Paul's Lord and Master (<a href="/john/10-20.htm">John 10:20</a>). The fervour of the apostle, his absorption in his work, his visions and ecstasies, his "speaking with tongues more than they all," his indifference to externals, his bursts of emotion, might all have given colour to this charge, which he here ironically accepts. "Mad or self controlled -all was for your sakes." <span class="cmt_word">It is to God;</span> rather <span class="accented">for God</span>. My "enthusiasm," "exaltation," or, if you will, my "madness," was but a phase of my work for him. <span class="cmt_word">We be sober.</span> The word "sober" (<span class="accented">sophron</span>) <span class="accented">is</span> derived from two words which mean" to <span class="accented">save the mind</span>." It indicates wise self control, such as was represented also by the many-sided Latin word <span class="accented">frugi</span>. It is the exact antithesis to madness (<a href="/acts/26-25.htm">Acts 26:25</a>). What you call my "madness" belongs to the relation between my own soul and God; my practical sense and tact are for you. <span class="cmt_word">For your sakes;</span> literally, <span class="accented">for you</span>. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/2_corinthians/5-13.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a></span><span class="p"><br /><br /><br /></span><a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div><span class="word">If</span><br /><span class="grk">Εἴτε</span> <span class="translit">(Eite)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1535.htm">Strong's 1535: </a> </span><span class="str2">And if, whether. From ei and te; if too.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">we are out of our mind,</span><br /><span class="grk">ἐξέστημεν</span> <span class="translit">(exestēmen)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Aorist Indicative Active - 1st Person Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1839.htm">Strong's 1839: </a> </span><span class="str2">From ek and histemi; to put out of wits, i.e. Astound, or become astounded, insane.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">[it is] for God;</span><br /><span class="grk">Θεῷ</span> <span class="translit">(Theō)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Dative Masculine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2316.htm">Strong's 2316: </a> </span><span class="str2">A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">if</span><br /><span class="grk">εἴτε</span> <span class="translit">(eite)</span><br /><span class="parse">Conjunction<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1535.htm">Strong's 1535: </a> </span><span class="str2">And if, whether. From ei and te; if too.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">we are of sound mind,</span><br /><span class="grk">σωφρονοῦμεν</span> <span class="translit">(sōphronoumen)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_4993.htm">Strong's 4993: </a> </span><span class="str2">To be of sound mind, be sober-minded, exercise self-control. From sophron; to be of sound mind, i.e. Sane, moderate.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">[it is] for you.</span><br /><span class="grk">ὑμῖν</span> <span class="translit">(hymin)</span><br /><span class="parse">Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 2nd Person Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> </span><span class="str2">You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/5-13.htm">2 Corinthians 5:13 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/5-13.htm">2 Corinthians 5:13 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/2_corinthians/5-13.htm">2 Corinthians 5:13 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/5-13.htm">2 Corinthians 5:13 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/5-13.htm">2 Corinthians 5:13 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/2_corinthians/5-13.htm">2 Corinthians 5:13 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_corinthians/5-13.htm">2 Corinthians 5:13 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_corinthians/5-13.htm">2 Corinthians 5:13 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/2_corinthians/5-13.htm">2 Corinthians 5:13 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/2_corinthians/5-13.htm">2 Corinthians 5:13 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/2_corinthians/5-13.htm">NT Letters: 2 Corinthians 5:13 For if we are beside ourselves it (2 Cor. 2C iiC 2Cor ii cor iicor) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_corinthians/5-12.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Corinthians 5:12"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 5:12" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_corinthians/5-14.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Corinthians 5:14"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 5:14" /></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>