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class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv"><b>Verse</b><a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/4.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/4.htm">New International Version</a></span><br />Therefore, since through God&#8217s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/4.htm">New Living Translation</a></span><br />Therefore, since God in his mercy has given us this new way, we never give up.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/esv/2_corinthians/4.htm">English Standard Version</a></span><br />Therefore, having this ministry by the mercy of God, we do not lose heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/4.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a></span><br />Therefore, since God in His mercy has given us this ministry, we do not lose heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/2_corinthians/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />Because of this, having this ministry, as we received mercy, we do not lose heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/4.htm">King James Bible</a></span><br />Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nkjv/2_corinthians/4.htm">New King James Version</a></span><br />Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we do not lose heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb_/2_corinthians/4.htm">New American Standard Bible</a></span><br />Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we received mercy, we do not lose heart,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/4.htm">NASB 1995</a></span><br />Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we received mercy, we do not lose heart,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nasb77/2_corinthians/4.htm">NASB 1977 </a></span><br />Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we received mercy, we do not lose heart,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsb/2_corinthians/4.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a></span><br />Therefore, since we have this ministry, as we received mercy, we do not lose heart,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/amp/2_corinthians/4.htm">Amplified Bible</a></span><br />Therefore, since we have this ministry, just as we received mercy [from God, granting us salvation, opportunities, and blessings], we do not get discouraged <i>nor</i> lose our motivation.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/csb/2_corinthians/4.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Therefore, since we have this ministry because we were shown mercy, we do not give up.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/hcsb/2_corinthians/4.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a></span><br />Therefore, since we have this ministry because we were shown mercy, we do not give up.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/asv/2_corinthians/4.htm">American Standard Version</a></span><br />Therefore seeing we have this ministry, even as we obtained mercy, we faint not:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cev/2_corinthians/4.htm">Contemporary English Version</a></span><br />God has been kind enough to trust us with this work. This is why we never give up. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/erv/2_corinthians/4.htm">English Revised Version</a></span><br />Therefore seeing we have this ministry, even as we obtained mercy, we faint not:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gwt/2_corinthians/4.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a></span><br />We don't become discouraged, since God has given us this ministry through his mercy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/gnt/2_corinthians/4.htm">Good News Translation</a></span><br />God in his mercy has given us this work to do, and so we do not become discouraged. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/isv/2_corinthians/4.htm">International Standard Version</a></span><br />Therefore, since we have this ministry through the mercy shown to us, we do not get discouraged. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/net/2_corinthians/4.htm">NET Bible</a></span><br />Therefore, since we have this ministry, just as God has shown us mercy, we do not become discouraged.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nheb/2_corinthians/4.htm">New Heart English Bible</a></span><br />Therefore seeing we have this ministry, even as we obtained mercy, we do not faint.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wbt/2_corinthians/4.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a></span><br />Therefore, seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/2_corinthians/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />Therefore, being engaged in this service and being mindful of the mercy which has been shown us, we are not cowards.<div class="vheading2"><b>Majority Text Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/msb/2_corinthians/4.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a></span><br />Therefore, since God in His mercy has given us this ministry, we do not lose heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/web/2_corinthians/4.htm">World English Bible</a></span><br />Therefore, seeing we have this ministry, even as we obtained mercy, we don’t faint. <div class="vheading2"><b>Literal Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lsv/2_corinthians/4.htm">Literal Standard Version</a></span><br />Because of this, having this ministry, according as we received kindness, we do not faint,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/blb/2_corinthians/4.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a></span><br />Because of this, having this ministry, as we received mercy, we do not lose heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/ylt/2_corinthians/4.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a></span><br /> Because of this, having this ministration, according as we did receive kindness, we do not faint,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/slt/2_corinthians/4.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a></span><br />For this, having this service, as we were compassionated, we lose not courage;<div class="vheading2"><b>Catholic Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/drb/2_corinthians/4.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a></span><br />Therefore, seeing we have this ministration, according as we have obtained mercy, we faint not; <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/cpdv/2_corinthians/4.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a></span><br />Therefore, since we have this ministry, and in as much as we have obtained mercy for ourselves, we are not inadequate.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nabre/2_corinthians/4.htm">New American Bible</a></span><br />Therefore, since we have this ministry through the mercy shown us, we are not discouraged.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/nrsvce/2_corinthians/4.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a></span><br />Therefore, since it is by God’s mercy that we are engaged in this ministry, we do not lose heart.<div class="vheading2"><b>Translations from Aramaic</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/lamsa/2_corinthians/4.htm">Lamsa Bible</a></span><br />FOR this reason we are not weary of the ministry in which we are engaged, just as we are not weary of the mercies that have been upon us;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/aramaic-plain-english/2_corinthians/4.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a></span><br />Because of this, it has not been tiresome to us in this ministry which we hold, as mercy has been upon us.<div class="vheading2"><b>NT Translations</b></div><span class="versiontext"><a href="/anderson/2_corinthians/4.htm">Anderson New Testament</a></span><br />Wherefore, having this ministry, inasmuch as we have received mercy, we faint not;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/godbey/2_corinthians/4.htm">Godbey New Testament</a></span><br />Therefore having this ministry, as we have obtained mercy, we faint not;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/haweis/2_corinthians/4.htm">Haweis New Testament</a></span><br />THEREFORE having this ministry, as we have obtained mercy, we faint not;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/mace/2_corinthians/4.htm">Mace New Testament</a></span><br />Therefore, having by the divine favour such a ministry, I exert myself:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/wey/2_corinthians/4.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a></span><br />Therefore, being engaged in this service and being mindful of the mercy which has been shown us, we are not cowards.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worrell/2_corinthians/4.htm">Worrell New Testament</a></span><br />Therefore, having this ministry, even as we obtained mercy, we faint not;<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/worsley/2_corinthians/4.htm">Worsley New Testament</a></span><br />Therefore having <i>received</i> this ministry, as we have obtained mercy, we are not disheartened:<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/parallel/2_corinthians/4-1.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=569" 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/4.htm">The Light of the Gospel</a></span><br> <span class="reftext">1</span><span class="highl"><a href="/greek/1223.htm" title="1223: Dia (Prep) -- A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.">Therefore,</a> <a href="/greek/3778.htm" title="3778: touto (DPro-ANS) -- This; he, she, it. "></a> <a href="/greek/2531.htm" title="2531: kathōs (Adv) -- According to the manner in which, in the degree that, just as, as. From kata and hos; just as, that.">since God in His</a> <a href="/greek/1653.htm" title="1653: ēleēthēmen (V-AIP-1P) -- To pity, have mercy on. From eleos; to compassionate.">mercy</a> <a href="/greek/2192.htm" title="2192: echontes (V-PPA-NMP) -- To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.">has given us</a> <a href="/greek/3778.htm" title="3778: tautēn (DPro-AFS) -- This; he, she, it. ">this</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tēn (Art-AFS) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the."></a> <a href="/greek/1248.htm" title="1248: diakonian (N-AFS) -- Waiting at table; in a wider sense: service, ministration. From diakonos; attendance; figuratively aid, service.">ministry,</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not."></a> <a href="/greek/1573.htm" title="1573: enkakoumen (V-PIA-1P) -- To be faint, be weary. From ek and kakos; to be weak, i.e. to fail.">we do not lose heart.</a> </span> <span class="reftext">2</span>Instead, we have renounced secret and shameful ways. We do not practice deceit, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by open proclamation of the truth, we commend ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.…<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="/2_corinthians/3-6.htm">2 Corinthians 3:6</a></span><br />And He has qualified us as ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/7-25.htm">1 Corinthians 7:25</a></span><br />Now about virgins, I have no command from the Lord, but I give a judgment as one who by the Lord’s mercy is trustworthy.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/15-10.htm">1 Corinthians 15:10</a></span><br />But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not in vain. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/ephesians/3-7.htm">Ephesians 3:7</a></span><br />I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace, given me through the working of His power.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_timothy/1-12.htm">1 Timothy 1:12-14</a></span><br />I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, that He considered me faithful and appointed me to service. / I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and a violent man; yet because I had acted in ignorance and unbelief, I was shown mercy. / And the grace of our Lord overflowed to me, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/romans/12-6.htm">Romans 12:6-8</a></span><br />We have different gifts according to the grace given us. If one’s gift is prophecy, let him use it in proportion to his faith; / if it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; / if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is giving, let him give generously; if it is leading, let him lead with diligence; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_peter/4-10.htm">1 Peter 4:10-11</a></span><br />As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another. / 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.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/acts/20-24.htm">Acts 20:24</a></span><br />But I consider my life of no value to me, if only I may finish my course and complete the ministry I have received from the Lord Jesus—the ministry of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/galatians/1-15.htm">Galatians 1:15-16</a></span><br />But when God, who set me apart from my mother’s womb and called me by His grace, was pleased / to reveal His Son in me so that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not rush to consult with flesh and blood,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/colossians/1-25.htm">Colossians 1:25</a></span><br />I became its servant by the commission God gave me to fully proclaim to you the word of God,<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/1_corinthians/4-1.htm">1 Corinthians 4:1-2</a></span><br />So then, men ought to regard us as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. / Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/hebrews/12-3.htm">Hebrews 12:3</a></span><br />Consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/40-31.htm">Isaiah 40:31</a></span><br />But those who wait upon the LORD will renew their strength; they will mount up with wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not faint.<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/jeremiah/1-5.htm">Jeremiah 1:5-8</a></span><br />“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as a prophet to the nations.” / “Ah, Lord GOD,” I said, “I surely do not know how to speak, for I am only a child!” / But the LORD told me: “Do not say, ‘I am only a child.’ For to everyone I send you, you must go, and all that I command you, you must speak. ...<span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="crossverse"><a href="/isaiah/6-8.htm">Isaiah 6:8-9</a></span><br />Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying: “Whom shall I send? Who will go for Us?” And I said: “Here am I. Send me!” / And He replied: “Go and tell this people, ‘Be ever hearing, but never understanding; be ever seeing, but never perceiving.’</div><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div><p class="tsk2">Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;</p><p class="hdg">seeing.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/3-6.htm">2 Corinthians 3:6,12</a></b></br> 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… </p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/5-18.htm">2 Corinthians 5:18</a></b></br> And all things <i>are</i> of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/ephesians/3-7.htm">Ephesians 3:7,8</a></b></br> Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power… </p><p class="hdg">as.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_corinthians/7-25.htm">1 Corinthians 7:25</a></b></br> Now concerning virgins I have no commandment of the Lord: yet I give my judgment, as one that hath obtained mercy of the Lord to be faithful.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_timothy/1-13.htm">1 Timothy 1:13</a></b></br> Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did <i>it</i> ignorantly in unbelief.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/1_peter/2-10.htm">1 Peter 2:10</a></b></br> Which in time past <i>were</i> not a people, but <i>are</i> now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.</p><p class="hdg">we faint not.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/2_corinthians/4-16.htm">2 Corinthians 4:16</a></b></br> For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward <i>man</i> is renewed day by day.</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/isaiah/40-30.htm">Isaiah 40:30</a></b></br> Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall:</p><p class="tskverse"><b><a href="/galatians/6-9.htm">Galatians 6:9</a></b></br> And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.</p><div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/revelation/21-8.htm">Cowards</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/16-10.htm">Engaged</a> <a href="/luke/21-26.htm">Faint</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/2-17.htm">God's</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-17.htm">Heart</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/7-25.htm">Kindness</a> <a href="/acts/27-34.htm">Lose</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/7-25.htm">Mercy</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/11-2.htm">Mindful</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-9.htm">Ministration</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-9.htm">Ministry</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-6.htm">New</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/7-25.htm">Obtained</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-13.htm">Order</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-10.htm">Reason</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/2-3.htm">Receive</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/1-9.htm">Received</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-6.htm">Servants</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/3-9.htm">Service</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-11.htm">Shewn</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/3-13.htm">Shown</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/2_corinthians/4-16.htm">Cowards</a> <a href="/philippians/1-30.htm">Engaged</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-16.htm">Faint</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-2.htm">God's</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-13.htm">Heart</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-6.htm">Kindness</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-16.htm">Lose</a> <a href="/galatians/6-16.htm">Mercy</a> <a href="/colossians/4-18.htm">Mindful</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-18.htm">Ministration</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-18.htm">Ministry</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-16.htm">New</a> <a href="/ephesians/1-11.htm">Obtained</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-7.htm">Order</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-9.htm">Reason</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-10.htm">Receive</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-1.htm">Received</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-5.htm">Servants</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/5-13.htm">Service</a> <a href="/james/2-13.htm">Shewn</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-10.htm">Shown</a><div class="vheading2">2 Corinthians 4</div><span class="reftext">1. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/4-1.htm">Paul declares how he has used all sincerity and diligence in preaching the gospel,</a></span><br><span class="reftext">7. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/4-7.htm">and how his troubles and persecutions did redound to the praise of God's power,</a></span><br><span class="reftext">12. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/4-12.htm">to the benefit of the church,</a></span><br><span class="reftext">16. </span><span class="outlinetext"><a href="/2_corinthians/4-16.htm">and to the apostle's own eternal glory.</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/4.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/4.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div><b>Therefore,</b><br>The word "therefore" connects this verse to the preceding context, where Paul discusses the glory of the new covenant and the transformative power of the Spirit. It indicates a conclusion or result based on what has been previously stated, emphasizing the continuity of thought.<p><b>since God in His mercy has given us this ministry,</b><br>Paul acknowledges that the ministry he and his companions have received is a result of God's mercy. This reflects the biblical theme of grace, where God bestows gifts and responsibilities not based on human merit but out of His compassion and kindness. The ministry refers to the apostolic mission of spreading the gospel, which Paul sees as a divine calling. This aligns with passages like <a href="/ephesians/3-7.htm">Ephesians 3:7</a>, where Paul speaks of becoming a servant of the gospel by the gift of God's grace.<p><b>we do not lose heart.</b><br>Despite the challenges and opposition faced in ministry, Paul and his companions remain steadfast and encouraged. The phrase "do not lose heart" suggests perseverance and resilience, which are central themes in Paul's letters. This reflects the broader biblical narrative of enduring faith, as seen in <a href="/hebrews/12.htm">Hebrews 12:1-3</a>, where believers are encouraged to run with perseverance the race marked out for them, fixing their eyes on Jesus. The assurance of God's mercy and the significance of their calling provide the strength to continue despite difficulties.<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, Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, addressing various issues and encouraging them in their faith.<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 immorality, where Paul established a church during his missionary journeys.<br><br>3. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_corinthian_church.htm">The Corinthian Church</a></b><br>The recipients of this letter, a diverse group of believers facing challenges both from within and outside the church.<br><br>4. <b><a href="/topical/t/the_ministry.htm">The Ministry</a></b><br>Refers to the apostolic ministry of spreading the Gospel, which Paul and his companions are engaged in.<br><br>5. <b><a href="/topical/g/god's_mercy.htm">God's Mercy</a></b><br>The divine compassion and grace that enables Paul and others to carry out their ministry.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><b><a href="/topical/t/the_source_of_ministry.htm">The Source of Ministry</a></b><br>Our ministry is a gift from God, rooted in His mercy. Recognizing this helps us remain humble and dependent on Him.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/p/perseverance_in_ministry.htm">Perseverance in Ministry</a></b><br>Despite challenges, we are called not to lose heart. God's mercy sustains us, enabling us to continue in our calling.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_role_of_mercy.htm">The Role of Mercy</a></b><br>Understanding that our ability to serve comes from God's mercy should inspire gratitude and motivate us to extend mercy to others.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_perspective.htm">The Importance of Perspective</a></b><br>Keeping our focus on God's mercy and the eternal significance of our ministry helps us endure temporary hardships.<br><br><b><a href="/topical/e/encouragement_in_community.htm">Encouragement in Community</a></b><br>Sharing our struggles and victories with fellow believers can provide mutual encouragement and strengthen our resolve.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_2_corinthians_4.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 2 Corinthians 4</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/how_does_testing_boost_faith_biblically.htm">How can we effectively preach the gospel today?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_does_'do_not_lose_heart'_mean.htm">What does "do not lose heart" mean?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/what_is_peter's_gospel.htm">What is Peter's gospel?</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/q/why_does_paul_claim_he_wronged_no_one.htm">(2 Corinthians 7:2) Why does Paul insist he wronged no one, yet elsewhere admits to persecuting the church (cf. Acts 22:4)?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_corinthians/4.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>IV.</span><p>(1) <span class= "bld">Therefore seeing we have this ministry.</span>--The ministry referred to is that of which such great things have just been said: the ministry of the new covenant, of the Spirit, of righteousness, of glory (<a href="/2_corinthians/3-6.htm" title="Who also has made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: for the letter kills, but the spirit gives life.">2Corinthians 3:6</a>; <a href="/context/2_corinthians/3-8.htm" title="How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious?">2Corinthians 3:8-9</a>). Two thoughts rise up in the Apostle's mind in immediate association with this: (1) His own utter unworthiness of it, which finds expression in "as we have received mercy" (comp. <a href="/1_timothy/1-12.htm" title="And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry;">1Timothy 1:12</a>); and (2) the manifold trials and difficulties in the midst of which it had to be accomplished. The very fact that he has been called to such a work is, however, a source of strength. He cannot faint or show cowardice in discharging it.<p><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_corinthians/4.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div><span class="cmt_sub_title">Verse 1.</span> - <span class="cmt_word">Therefore</span>. Because of the freedom and open vision of the gospel. <span class="cmt_word">As we have received mercy.</span> Gratitude for a mercy so undeserved (<a href="/1_timothy/1-13.htm">1 Timothy 1:13</a>) makes us fearless and vigorous in a ministry so glorious (<a href="/acts/20-23.htm">Acts 20:23, 24</a>). <span class="cmt_word">We faint not.</span> The word implies the maintenance of a holy courage (<a href="/1_corinthians/16-13.htm">1 Corinthians 16:13</a>) and perseverance (<a href="/2_thessalonians/3-13.htm">2 Thessalonians 3:13</a>). It occurs again in ver. 16, and in <a href="/luke/18-1.htm">Luke 18:1</a>; <a href="/galatians/6-9.htm">Galatians 6:9</a>; <a href="/ephesians/3-13.htm">Ephesians 3:13</a>. <span class="p"><br /><br /></span><span class="versiontext"><a href="/commentaries/2_corinthians/4-1.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">Therefore,</span><br /><span class="grk">Διὰ</span> <span class="translit">(Dia)</span><br /><span class="parse">Preposition<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1223.htm">Strong's 1223: </a> </span><span class="str2">A primary preposition denoting the channel of an act; through.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">since we have</span><br /><span class="grk">ἔχοντες</span> <span class="translit">(echontes)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2192.htm">Strong's 2192: </a> </span><span class="str2">To have, hold, possess. Including an alternate form scheo skheh'-o; a primary verb; to hold.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">this</span><br /><span class="grk">ταύτην</span> <span class="translit">(tautēn)</span><br /><span class="parse">Demonstrative Pronoun - Accusative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_3778.htm">Strong's 3778: </a> </span><span class="str2">This; he, she, it. </span><br /><br /><span class="word">ministry</span><br /><span class="grk">διακονίαν</span> <span class="translit">(diakonian)</span><br /><span class="parse">Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1248.htm">Strong's 1248: </a> </span><span class="str2">Waiting at table; in a wider sense: service, ministration. From diakonos; attendance; figuratively aid, service.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">through</span><br /><span class="grk">καθὼς</span> <span class="translit">(kathōs)</span><br /><span class="parse">Adverb<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_2531.htm">Strong's 2531: </a> </span><span class="str2">According to the manner in which, in the degree that, just as, as. From kata and hos; just as, that.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">the mercy [of God],</span><br /><span class="grk">ἠλεήθημεν</span> <span class="translit">(ēleēthēmen)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Aorist Indicative Passive - 1st Person Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1653.htm">Strong's 1653: </a> </span><span class="str2">To pity, have mercy on. From eleos; to compassionate.</span><br /><br /><span class="word">we do not lose heart.</span><br /><span class="grk">ἐγκακοῦμεν</span> <span class="translit">(enkakoumen)</span><br /><span class="parse">Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Plural<br /></span><span class="str"><a href="/greek/strongs_1573.htm">Strong's 1573: </a> </span><span class="str2">To be faint, be weary. From ek and kakos; to be weak, i.e. to fail.</span><br /><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/4-1.htm">2 Corinthians 4:1 NIV</a><br /><a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/4-1.htm">2 Corinthians 4:1 NLT</a><br /><a href="/esv/2_corinthians/4-1.htm">2 Corinthians 4:1 ESV</a><br /><a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/4-1.htm">2 Corinthians 4:1 NASB</a><br /><a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/4-1.htm">2 Corinthians 4:1 KJV</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="//bibleapps.com/2_corinthians/4-1.htm">2 Corinthians 4:1 BibleApps.com</a><br /><a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_corinthians/4-1.htm">2 Corinthians 4:1 Biblia Paralela</a><br /><a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_corinthians/4-1.htm">2 Corinthians 4:1 Chinese Bible</a><br /><a href="//saintebible.com/2_corinthians/4-1.htm">2 Corinthians 4:1 French Bible</a><br /><a href="/catholic/2_corinthians/4-1.htm">2 Corinthians 4:1 Catholic Bible</a><span class="p"><br /><br /></span><a href="/2_corinthians/4-1.htm">NT Letters: 2 Corinthians 4:1 Therefore seeing we have this ministry even (2 Cor. 2C iiC 2Cor ii cor iicor) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_corinthians/3-18.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Corinthians 3:18"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 3:18" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_corinthians/4-2.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Corinthians 4:2"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 4:2" /></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>