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We have been speaking in the sight of God as those in Christ; and everything we do, dear friends, is for your strengthening. <a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/12.htm">New Living Translation</a> Perhaps you think we’re saying these things just to defend ourselves. No, we tell you this as Christ’s servants, and with God as our witness. Everything we do, dear friends, is to strengthen you. <a href="/esv/2_corinthians/12.htm">English Standard Version</a> Have you been thinking all along that we have been defending ourselves to you? It is in the sight of God that we have been speaking in Christ, and all for your upbuilding, beloved. <a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> Have you been thinking all along that we were making a defense to you? We speak before God in Christ, and all of this, beloved, is to build you up. <a href="/blb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Have you been thinking all along that we have been making a defense to you? We speak in Christ before God, but all things, beloved, for your edification. <a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/12.htm">King James Bible</a> Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you? we speak before God in Christ: but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying. <a href="/nkjv/2_corinthians/12.htm">New King James Version</a> Again, do you think that we excuse ourselves to you? We speak before God in Christ. But we do all things, beloved, for your edification. <a href="/nasb_/2_corinthians/12.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> All this time you have been thinking that we are defending ourselves to you. Actually, it is in the sight of God that we have been speaking in Christ; and all for building you up, beloved. <a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/12.htm">NASB 1995</a> All this time you have been thinking that we are defending ourselves to you. Actually, it is in the sight of God that we have been speaking in Christ; and all for your upbuilding, beloved. <a href="/nasb77/2_corinthians/12.htm">NASB 1977 </a> All this time you have been thinking that we are defending ourselves to you. Actually, it is in the sight of God that we have been speaking in Christ; and all for your upbuilding, beloved. <a href="/lsb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> All this time you think we are defending ourselves to you. We speak in Christ in the sight of God. And all these things, beloved, are for your building up. <a href="/amp/2_corinthians/12.htm">Amplified Bible</a> All this time you have been thinking that we are [merely] defending ourselves to you. It is in the sight of God that we have been speaking [as one] in Christ; and everything, dearly beloved, is to strengthen you [spiritually]. <a href="/csb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> Have you been thinking all along that we were defending ourselves to you? No, in the sight of God we are speaking in Christ, and everything, dear friends, is for building you up. <a href="/hcsb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> You have thought all along that we were defending ourselves to you. No, in the sight of God we are speaking in Christ, and everything, dear friends, is for building you up. <a href="/asv/2_corinthians/12.htm">American Standard Version</a> Ye think all this time that we are excusing ourselves unto you. In the sight of God speak we in Christ. But all things, beloved, are for your edifying. <a href="/cev/2_corinthians/12.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Have you been thinking all along that we have been defending ourselves to you? Actually, we have been speaking to God as followers of Christ. But, my friends, we did it all for your good. <a href="/erv/2_corinthians/12.htm">English Revised Version</a> Ye think all this time that we are excusing ourselves unto you. In the sight of God speak we in Christ. But all things, beloved, are for your edifying. <a href="/gwt/2_corinthians/12.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> Have you been thinking all along that we're trying to defend ourselves to you? We speak as Christ's people in God's sight. Everything we do, dear friends, is for your benefit. <a href="/gnt/2_corinthians/12.htm">Good News Translation</a> Perhaps you think that all along we have been trying to defend ourselves before you. No! We speak as Christ would have us speak in the presence of God, and everything we do, dear friends, is done to help you. <a href="/isv/2_corinthians/12.htm">International Standard Version</a> Have you been thinking all along that we are trying to defend ourselves before you? We are speaking before God in the authority of the Messiah, and everything, dear friends, is meant to build you up. <a href="/msb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Have you been thinking all along that we were making a defense to you? We speak before God in Christ, and all of this, beloved, is to build you up. <a href="/net/2_corinthians/12.htm">NET Bible</a> Have you been thinking all this time that we have been defending ourselves to you? We are speaking in Christ before God, and everything we do, dear friends, is to build you up. <a href="/nheb/2_corinthians/12.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> Have you been thinking all this time that we have been defending ourselves before you? In the sight of God we speak in Christ; and all things, beloved, are for your edifying. <a href="/wbt/2_corinthians/12.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves to you? we speak before God in Christ: but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edification. <a href="/wey/2_corinthians/12.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> You are imagining, all this time, that we are making our defense at your bar. In reality it is as in God's presence and in communion with Christ that we speak; but, dear friends, it is all with a view to your progress in goodness. <a href="/web/2_corinthians/12.htm">World English Bible</a> Again, do you think that we are excusing ourselves to you? In the sight of God we speak in Christ. But all things, beloved, are for your edifying. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/2_corinthians/12.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> Again, [do] you think that we are making defense to you? We speak before God in Christ; and all things, beloved, [are] for your up-building, <a href="/blb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> Have you been thinking all along that we have been making a defense to you? We speak in Christ before God, but all things, beloved, for your edification. <a href="/ylt/2_corinthians/12.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> Again, think ye that to you we are making defence? before God in Christ do we speak; and the all things, beloved, are for your up-building, <a href="/slt/2_corinthians/12.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves to you? before God in Christ we speak: and all things, beloved, for your building up.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> Of old, think you that we excuse ourselves to you? We speak before God in Christ; but all things, my dearly beloved, for your edification. <a href="/cpdv/2_corinthians/12.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> Have you ever thought that we should explain ourselves to you? We speak in the sight of God, in Christ. But all things, most beloved, are for your edification. <a href="/nabre/2_corinthians/12.htm">New American Bible</a> Have you been thinking all along that we are defending ourselves before you? In the sight of God we are speaking in Christ, and all for building you up, beloved. <a href="/nrsvce/2_corinthians/12.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> Have you been thinking all along that we have been defending ourselves before you? We are speaking in Christ before God. Everything we do, beloved, is for the sake of building you up.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/2_corinthians/12.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> Why? Do you still think we are apologizing? No! We speak before God in Christ: and we do all these things, my beloved, for your edification. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/2_corinthians/12.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> Do you again think that we make excuses to you? We speak before God in The Messiah, and all these things, my beloved, are for your edification.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/2_corinthians/12.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> Do you think again that we offer you a defense of ourselves? We speak all these things before God in Christ, beloved, for your edification. <a href="/godbey/2_corinthians/12.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> For a long time you were thinking that I am apologizing to you. We speak before God in Christ; but all things, beloved, are for your edification. <a href="/haweis/2_corinthians/12.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> Think ye that we are again making an apology to you? In the sight of God speak we in Christ: but all things, beloved, for your edification. <a href="/mace/2_corinthians/12.htm">Mace New Testament</a> do you think I have been making excuses for not coming? as I am a christian, in the presence of God, I have, my beloved, in every thing consulted your advantage. <a href="/wey/2_corinthians/12.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> You are imagining, all this time, that we are making our defense at your bar. In reality it is as in God's presence and in communion with Christ that we speak; but, dear friends, it is all with a view to your progress in goodness. <a href="/worrell/2_corinthians/12.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> Think ye all this time that we are excusing ourselves to you? Before God in Christ we are speaking; and all, beloved, for your edification. <a href="/worsley/2_corinthians/12.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> Do ye then think that we are making apologies to you? No, we speak before God in Christ: and all, my beloved, for your edification. <a href="/parallel/2_corinthians/12-19.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=2385" 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/12.htm">Concern for the Corinthians</a> …18I urged Titus to visit you, and I sent our brother with him. Did Titus exploit you in any way? Did we not walk in the same Spirit and follow in the same footsteps? 19<a href="/greek/1380.htm" title="1380: dokeite (V-PIA-2P) -- A prolonged form of a primary verb, doko dok'-o of the same meaning; to think; by implication, to seem.">Have you been thinking</a> <a href="/greek/3819.htm" title="3819: Palai (Adv) -- Of old, long ago, in times past, former. Probably another form for palin; formerly, or sometime since; ancient.">all along</a> <a href="/greek/3754.htm" title="3754: hoti (Conj) -- Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.">that</a> <a href="/greek/626.htm" title="626: apologoumetha (V-PIM/P-1P) -- To give a defense, defend myself (especially in a law court): it can take an object of what is said in defense. ">we were making a defense</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: hymin (PPro-D2P) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou.">to you?</a> <a href="/greek/2980.htm" title="2980: laloumen (V-PIA-1P) -- A prolonged form of an otherwise obsolete verb; to talk, i.e. Utter words.">We speak</a> <a href="/greek/2713.htm" title="2713: katenanti (Prep) -- Opposite, in front (of), over against. From kata and enanti; directly opposite.">before</a> <a href="/greek/2316.htm" title="2316: Theou (N-GMS) -- A deity, especially the supreme Divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; by Hebraism, very.">God</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/5547.htm" title="5547: Christō (N-DMS) -- Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus.">Christ,</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">and</a> <a href="/greek/3956.htm" title="3956: panta (Adj-NNP) -- All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole.">all</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ta (Art-NNP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">of this,</a> <a href="/greek/27.htm" title="27: agapētoi (Adj-VMP) -- From agapao; beloved.">beloved,</a> <a href="/greek/5228.htm" title="5228: hyper (Prep) -- Gen: in behalf of; acc: above. ">is</a> <a href="/greek/4771.htm" title="4771: hymōn (PPro-G2P) -- You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou."></a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēs (Art-GFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/3619.htm" title="3619: oikodomēs (N-GFS) -- Feminine of a compound of oikos and the base of doma; architecture, i.e. a structure; figuratively, confirmation.">to build you up.</a> 20For I am afraid that when I come, I may not find you as I wish, and you may not find me as you wish. I fear that there may be quarreling, jealousy, rage, rivalry, slander, gossip, arrogance, and disorder.…<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/5-12.htm">2 Corinthians 5:12</a> 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. <a href="/2_corinthians/7-2.htm">2 Corinthians 7:2</a> Make room for us in your hearts. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have exploited no one. <a href="/1_corinthians/10-33.htm">1 Corinthians 10:33</a> as I also try to please everyone in all I do. For I am not seeking my own good, but the good of many, that they may be saved. <a href="/1_thessalonians/2-4.htm">1 Thessalonians 2:4</a> Instead, we speak as those approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, not in order to please men but God, who examines our hearts. <a href="/galatians/1-10.htm">Galatians 1:10</a> 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. <a href="/romans/14-19.htm">Romans 14:19</a> So then, let us pursue what leads to peace and to mutual edification. <a href="/philippians/1-7.htm">Philippians 1:7</a> It is right for me to feel this way about all of you, since I have you in my heart. For in my chains and in my defense and confirmation of the gospel, you are all partners in grace with me. <a href="/1_corinthians/9-19.htm">1 Corinthians 9:19-23</a> Though I am free of obligation to anyone, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. / To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), to win those under the law. / To those without the law I became like one without the law (though I am not outside the law of God but am under the law of Christ), to win those without the law. ... <a href="/romans/15-2.htm">Romans 15:2</a> Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up. <a href="/1_corinthians/4-3.htm">1 Corinthians 4:3-4</a> I care very little, however, if I am judged by you or by any human court. In fact, I do not even judge myself. / My conscience is clear, but that does not vindicate me. It is the Lord who judges me. <a href="/1_peter/4-11.htm">1 Peter 4:11</a> If anyone speaks, he should speak as one conveying the words of God. If anyone serves, he should serve with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen. <a href="/ephesians/4-12.htm">Ephesians 4:12</a> to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ, <a href="/1_timothy/1-5.htm">1 Timothy 1:5</a> The goal of our instruction is the love that comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and a sincere faith. <a href="/proverbs/16-2.htm">Proverbs 16:2</a> All a man’s ways are pure in his own eyes, but his motives are weighed out by the LORD. <a href="/proverbs/21-2.htm">Proverbs 21:2</a> All a man’s ways seem right to him, but the LORD weighs the heart.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>Again, think you that we excuse ourselves to you? we speak before God in Christ: but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying.think.<a href="/2_corinthians/3-1.htm">2 Corinthians 3:1</a> Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you?<a href="/2_corinthians/5-12.htm">2 Corinthians 5:12</a> For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart.we speak.<a href="/2_corinthians/11-10.htm">2 Corinthians 11:10,31</a> As the truth of Christ is in me, no man shall stop me of this boasting in the regions of Achaia… <a href="/romans/9-1.htm">Romans 9:1</a> I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost,but.<a href="/2_corinthians/5-13.htm">2 Corinthians 5:13</a> For whether we be beside ourselves, it is to God: or whether we be sober, it is for your cause.<a href="/2_corinthians/10-8.htm">2 Corinthians 10:8</a> For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed:<a href="/2_corinthians/13-10.htm">2 Corinthians 13:10</a> Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the power which the Lord hath given me to edification, and not to destruction.dearly.<a href="/2_corinthians/12-15.htm">2 Corinthians 12:15</a> And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved.<a href="/2_corinthians/7-1.htm">2 Corinthians 7:1</a> Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.<a href="/romans/12-19.htm">Romans 12:19</a> Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_corinthians/3-1.htm">Attempting</a> <a href="/acts/13-6.htm">Bar</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-1.htm">Beloved</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-8.htm">Building</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-10.htm">Christ</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-14.htm">Communion</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-1.htm">Dear</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-1.htm">Dearly</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-3.htm">Defence</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-11.htm">Defense</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-8.htm">Edification</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/14-26.htm">Edifying</a> <a href="/romans/2-15.htm">Excuse</a> <a href="/romans/2-15.htm">Excusing</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/7-1.htm">Friends</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-7.htm">God's</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-5.htm">Imagining</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-13.htm">Making</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-18.htm">Ourselves</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-10.htm">Presence</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-18.htm">Profit</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-12.htm">Progress</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/15-20.htm">Reality</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-11.htm">Right</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-16.htm">Seem</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-21.htm">Sight</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-6.htm">Speak</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/14-26.htm">Strengthening</a> <a href="/acts/27-13.htm">Supposing</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-6.htm">Think</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-14.htm">Time</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-16.htm">View</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/1_peter/1-11.htm">Attempting</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-13.htm">Bar</a> <a href="/ephesians/1-6.htm">Beloved</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-10.htm">Building</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-3.htm">Christ</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-14.htm">Communion</a> <a href="/galatians/4-19.htm">Dear</a> <a href="/ephesians/5-1.htm">Dearly</a> <a href="/philippians/1-7.htm">Defence</a> <a href="/philippians/1-7.htm">Defense</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-10.htm">Edification</a> <a href="/ephesians/4-12.htm">Edifying</a> <a href="/galatians/5-13.htm">Excuse</a> <a href="/hebrews/12-19.htm">Excusing</a> <a href="/philippians/2-12.htm">Friends</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-4.htm">God's</a> <a href="/1_timothy/6-5.htm">Imagining</a> <a href="/galatians/1-20.htm">Making</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-6.htm">Ourselves</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-21.htm">Presence</a> <a href="/galatians/5-2.htm">Profit</a> <a href="/philippians/1-12.htm">Progress</a> <a href="/galatians/4-8.htm">Reality</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-7.htm">Right</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-7.htm">Seem</a> <a href="/galatians/1-20.htm">Sight</a> <a href="/galatians/3-15.htm">Speak</a> <a href="/philippians/4-13.htm">Strengthening</a> <a href="/philippians/1-16.htm">Supposing</a> <a href="/galatians/5-10.htm">Think</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-1.htm">Time</a> <a href="/galatians/2-8.htm">View</a><div class="vheading2">2 Corinthians 12</div>1. <a href="/2_corinthians/12-1.htm">For commending of his apostleship, though he might glory of his wonderful revelations,</a> 9. <a href="/2_corinthians/12-9.htm">yet he rather chooses to glory of his infirmities;</a> 11. <a href="/2_corinthians/12-11.htm">blaming the Corinthians for forcing him to this vain boasting.</a> 14. <a href="/2_corinthians/12-14.htm">He promises to come to them again; but yet altogether in the affection of a father;</a> 20. <a href="/2_corinthians/12-20.htm">although he fears he shall to his grief find many offenders, and public disorders there.</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/12.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/12.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>Have you been thinking all along that we were making a defense to you? Paul addresses the Corinthians with a rhetorical question, challenging their perception of his intentions. This reflects the tension between Paul and some members of the Corinthian church who questioned his authority and sincerity. The context is Paul's defense of his apostolic authority throughout the letter, particularly against false apostles (<a href="/2_corinthians/11-13.htm">2 Corinthians 11:13</a>). The phrase suggests a misunderstanding of Paul's motives, emphasizing that his purpose is not self-defense but the spiritual well-being of the church.We speak before God in Christ, Paul asserts the sincerity and divine accountability of his words. Speaking "before God" indicates that his message is delivered with a sense of divine witness and responsibility, aligning with the biblical principle that God is the ultimate judge of truth (<a href="/romans/14-12.htm">Romans 14:12</a>). The phrase "in Christ" underscores the union with Christ that defines Paul's ministry, reflecting the New Testament theme of believers' identity and actions being rooted in Christ (<a href="/galatians/2-20.htm">Galatians 2:20</a>).and all of this, beloved, The term "beloved" conveys Paul's deep affection for the Corinthian believers, despite the challenges and criticisms he faces from them. This reflects the pastoral heart of Paul, who consistently expresses love and concern for the churches he planted (<a href="/philippians/1-8.htm">Philippians 1:8</a>). The phrase "all of this" refers to his efforts and communications, emphasizing that his actions are motivated by love and concern for their spiritual growth.is to build you up. Paul's ultimate goal is the edification of the church. The concept of "building up" is a recurring theme in Paul's letters, highlighting the importance of spiritual growth and maturity within the body of Christ (<a href="/ephesians/4-12.htm">Ephesians 4:12</a>). This aligns with the biblical metaphor of the church as a building or temple, where each believer contributes to the overall structure (<a href="/1_corinthians/3-9.htm">1 Corinthians 3:9-17</a>). Paul's focus is on strengthening the faith and unity of the Corinthians, rather than defending his own reputation.<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, addressing the church in Corinth. He is defending his ministry and motives. 2. <a href="/topical/c/corinthian_church.htm">Corinthian Church</a> The recipients of the letter, a diverse and often troubled congregation in the city of Corinth. 3. <a href="/topical/g/god.htm">God</a> The ultimate witness to Paul's sincerity and the one before whom Paul speaks. 4. <a href="/topical/c/christ.htm">Christ</a> The foundation of Paul's ministry and the one in whose name Paul speaks. 5. <a href="/topical/e/edification.htm">Edification</a> The building up of the church, which is Paul's ultimate goal in his communication.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/s/sincerity_in_ministry.htm">Sincerity in Ministry</a> Paul emphasizes that his actions and words are not for self-defense but for the edification of the church. We should evaluate our motives in ministry to ensure they align with God's purposes. <a href="/topical/a/accountability_to_god.htm">Accountability to God</a> Paul speaks "before God in Christ," highlighting the importance of being accountable to God in all our actions and words. This should remind us to live with integrity, knowing that God is our ultimate judge. <a href="/topical/f/focus_on_edification.htm">Focus on Edification</a> The primary goal of Paul's communication is the edification of the church. In our interactions within the church, we should aim to build up and encourage one another. <a href="/topical/c/christ-centered_communication.htm">Christ-Centered Communication</a> Paul speaks "in Christ," indicating that our communication should be rooted in our relationship with Christ. This means speaking truthfully, lovingly, and with the intent to reflect Christ's character. <a href="/topical/u/understanding_misunderstandings.htm">Understanding Misunderstandings</a> Paul addresses potential misunderstandings about his motives. We should be prepared to clarify our intentions and actions when they are misunderstood, always aiming for peace and understanding.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_2_corinthians_12.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 2 Corinthians 12</a> <a href="/q/why_does_god_permit_doctrinal_confusion.htm">Why does God allow doctrinal confusion?</a> <a href="/q/what_does_the_bible_say_on_mary_visions.htm">What does the Bible say about Marian apparitions?</a> <a href="/q/is_emdr_therapy_biblical.htm">Is EMDR therapy biblical?</a> <a href="/q/does_the_bible_condone_faith_violence.htm">What is the Bible's stance on faith-based violence?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_corinthians/12.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(19) Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you?--Many of the best MSS. present the reading palai (long ago), instead of palin (again). In this case the sentence is better taken as an assertion, not as a question--"You are thinking, and have been thinking for a long time, that it is to you that we have been making our defence." The Greek verb for "excuse," is that which is always used of a formal apologia, or vindication (<a href="/luke/12-11.htm" title="And when they bring you to the synagogues, and to magistrates, and powers, take you no thought how or what thing you shall answer, or what you shall say:">Luke 12:11</a>; <a href="/luke/21-14.htm" title="Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what you shall answer:">Luke 21:14</a>; <a href="/acts/19-33.htm" title="And they drew Alexander out of the multitude, the Jews putting him forward. And Alexander beckoned with the hand, and would have made his defense to the people.">Acts 19:33</a>; <a href="/acts/24-10.htm" title="Then Paul, after that the governor had beckoned to him to speak, answered, For as much as I know that you have been of many years a judge to this nation, I do the more cheerfully answer for myself:">Acts 24:10</a>). St. Paul deprecates the idea that he has any wish to enter on such a vindication. He is anxious to explain his conduct, as in <a href="/context/2_corinthians/1-15.htm" title="And in this confidence I was minded to come to you before, that you might have a second benefit;">2Corinthians 1:15-24</a>; <a href="/context/2_corinthians/8-20.htm" title="Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this abundance which is administered by us:">2Corinthians 8:20-24</a>; <a href="/context/2_corinthians/11-7.htm" title="Have I committed an offense in abasing myself that you might be exalted, because I have preached to you the gospel of God freely?">2Corinthians 11:7-12</a>, but he does not acknowledge that he stands at the bar before their judgment-seat. He speaks, i.e., in the same tone of independence as in <a href="/context/1_corinthians/4-3.htm" title="But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, or of man's judgment: yes, I judge not my own self.">1Corinthians 4:3-5</a>. The motive which really prompts him to speak as he has spoken is not the wish to clear himself from aspersions, but "before God in Christ,"--under a profound sense that God is his Judge, and that Christ is, as it were, the sphere in which his thoughts revolve,--he is seeking to "edify," i.e., to build them up in the faith or love of God. He has the same end in view in all this perturbed emotion as in the calm liturgical directions of <a href="/context/1_corinthians/14-12.htm" title="Even so you, for as much as you are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that you may excel to the edifying of the church.">1Corinthians 14:12-26</a>. . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_corinthians/12.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 19. - Again, think you that we excuse ourselves unto you? The best reading is not palin, again, but palai, long ago. This word with the present is an elegant classical idiom, and means, "You have, perhaps, been imagining all this time that I am pleading with you by way of self-defence. Do not think it! You are no judges of mine. My only object is to speak before God in Christ, not to defend myself since I need no defence so far as you are concerned - but to help in building you up, by removing the falsehoods that alienate you from me." <a href="/commentaries/2_corinthians/12-19.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>Have you been thinking δοκεῖτε (dokeite) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1380.htm">Strong's 1380: </a> A prolonged form of a primary verb, doko dok'-o of the same meaning; to think; by implication, to seem. all along Πάλαι (Palai) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3819.htm">Strong's 3819: </a> Of old, long ago, in times past, former. Probably another form for palin; formerly, or sometime since; ancient. that ὅτι (hoti) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_3754.htm">Strong's 3754: </a> Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because. we were making a defense ἀπολογούμεθα (apologoumetha) Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_626.htm">Strong's 626: </a> To give a defense, defend myself (especially in a law court): it can take an object of what is said in defense. to you? ὑμῖν (hymin) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Dative 2nd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4771.htm">Strong's 4771: </a> You. The person pronoun of the second person singular; thou. We speak λαλοῦμεν (laloumen) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_2980.htm">Strong's 2980: </a> A prolonged form of an otherwise obsolete verb; to talk, i.e. Utter words. before κατέναντι (katenanti) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_2713.htm">Strong's 2713: </a> Opposite, in front (of), over against. From kata and enanti; directly opposite. 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. 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. Christ, Χριστῷ (Christō) Noun - Dative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5547.htm">Strong's 5547: </a> Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus. and δὲ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. all πάντα (panta) Adjective - Nominative Neuter Plural <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. of [this], τὰ (ta) Article - Nominative Neuter Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. beloved, ἀγαπητοί (agapētoi) Adjective - Vocative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_27.htm">Strong's 27: </a> From agapao; beloved. [is] ὑπὲρ (hyper) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_5228.htm">Strong's 5228: </a> Gen: in behalf of; acc: above. to build you up. οἰκοδομῆς (oikodomēs) Noun - Genitive Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3619.htm">Strong's 3619: </a> Feminine of a compound of oikos and the base of doma; architecture, i.e. a structure; figuratively, confirmation. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/12-19.htm">2 Corinthians 12:19 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/12-19.htm">2 Corinthians 12:19 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/2_corinthians/12-19.htm">2 Corinthians 12:19 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/12-19.htm">2 Corinthians 12:19 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/12-19.htm">2 Corinthians 12:19 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/2_corinthians/12-19.htm">2 Corinthians 12:19 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_corinthians/12-19.htm">2 Corinthians 12:19 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_corinthians/12-19.htm">2 Corinthians 12:19 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/2_corinthians/12-19.htm">2 Corinthians 12:19 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/2_corinthians/12-19.htm">2 Corinthians 12:19 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-19.htm">NT Letters: 2 Corinthians 12:19 Again do you think that we (2 Cor. 2C iiC 2Cor ii cor iicor) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_corinthians/12-18.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Corinthians 12:18"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 12:18" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_corinthians/12-20.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Corinthians 12:20"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 12:20" /></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>