◄ 2 Corinthians 5 ►
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Our Eternal Dwelling (Romans 8:18–27) 1For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is dismantled, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. 2For in this tent we groan, longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling, 3because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. 4For while we are in this tent, we groan under our burdens, because we do not wish to be unclothed but clothed, so that our mortality may be swallowed up by life. 5And it is God who has prepared us for this very purpose and has given us the Spirit as a pledge of what is to come. 6Therefore we are always confident, although we know that while we are at home in the body, we are away from the Lord. 7For we walk by faith, not by sight. 8We are confident, then, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. 9So we aspire to please Him, whether we are at home in this body or away from it. 10For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive his due for the things done in the body, whether good or bad. Ambassadors for Christ 11Therefore, since we know what it means to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men. What we are is clear to God, and I hope it is clear to your conscience as well. 12We 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. 13If we are out of our mind, it is for God; if we are of sound mind, it is for you. 14For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that One died for all, therefore all died. 15And He died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died for them and was raised again. 16So from now on we regard no one according to the flesh. Although we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. 17Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.a The old has passed away. Behold, the new has come! 18All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: 19that God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting men’s trespasses against them. And He has committed to us the message of reconciliation. 20Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ: Be reconciled to God. 21God made Him who knew no sin to be sinb on our behalf, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. Footnotes: 17 a Or a new creature 21 b Or a sin offering Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 2 Corinthians 5 Summary Ambassadors for Christ Verses 1–5 – Our Future Dwelling Paul likens our mortal bodies to a “tent” that can be torn down, but he points to “a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.” Because God has already given us “the Spirit as a pledge,” believers groan for the moment when the temporary is “swallowed up by life.” Verses 6–10 – Living by Faith, Not Sight We are always confident because “we walk by faith, not by sight.” Whether at home in the body or away from it, our aim is to please the Lord, knowing that “we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ” to receive what is due for deeds done in the body. Verses 11–15 – Christ’s Love Compels Us “Since we know what it means to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men.” Paul’s transparent ministry is grounded in “the love of Christ,” who “died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves.” Verses 16–17 – A New Creation in Christ No longer evaluating anyone by worldly standards, Paul declares, “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away; behold, the new has come!” Verses 18–21 – Ambassadors of Reconciliation “All this is from God,” who reconciled us through Christ and entrusted to us “the ministry of reconciliation.” God “made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God,” and we now serve as His ambassadors, appealing to the world to be reconciled. In 2 Corinthians 5, Paul contrasts our earthly existence with our future heavenly dwelling. He also discusses the significance of Christ's death, the importance of the ministry of reconciliation, and the transformation brought about by becoming a new creation in Christ. Historical Context Written from Macedonia around A.D. 55–56, 2 Corinthians shows Paul defending his ministry and comforting a church rocked by division. Chapter 5 sits at the heart of that defense: Paul explains why he suffers, why he speaks boldly, and why his hope rests beyond the present life. Corinth and Its Culture • A bustling port linking the Aegean and Adriatic Seas, Corinth was known for commerce, sports, and temples to Aphrodite, Apollo, and others. • Believers faced constant pressure to blend in with a city devoted to wealth, status, and sensuality. Paul’s reminders about eternal realities confronted that mindset head-on. Structure and Flow 1. vv. 1–5 – Earthly tent vs. heavenly house 2. vv. 6–8 – Confidence in the Lord despite absence from Him 3. vv. 9–10 – Pleasing Christ, facing His judgment seat 4. vv. 11–13 – Integrity before God and people 5. vv. 14–15 – Motivation: Christ’s love demonstrated in His death 6. vv. 16–17 – New creation identity 7. vv. 18–21 – God’s reconciling work and our ambassadorial task Key Words & Pictures • Tent (v. 1): A portable dwelling—reminding readers of Israel’s wilderness tabernacle and underscoring life’s transience. • Groan (vv. 2, 4): Deep longing for completion; echoes Romans 8:23. • Guaranteed/pledged (v. 5): The Spirit as earnest money; see Ephesians 1:13–14. • Ambassadors (v. 20): Official envoys speaking on their ruler’s behalf—well-known in Roman colonies. • Reconcile (vv. 18–20): Remove hostility and restore friendship. Scripture Connections • John 14:2—Jesus’ promise of “many rooms” parallels the “house not made with hands.” • Philippians 1:21–24—Paul’s tension between remaining in the body and departing to be with Christ. • Romans 14:10–12—All believers will give an account before God. • Isaiah 53:5–6—The suffering Servant who “bore the sin of many,” aligned with 2 Corinthians 5:21. • Colossians 1:20—God “reconciled all things to Himself” through the cross. Archaeological Notes • Tents: Leather-working shops have been unearthed in ancient Corinth; Paul, a tentmaker (Acts 18:3), likely drew from everyday sights when describing the body as a tent. • Judgment Seat (bēma): The stone platform still visible in Corinth’s forum is where Roman officials rendered verdicts, giving local color to “the judgment seat of Christ” (v. 10). • Diplomatic Envoys: Inscriptions from first-century cities record “ambassadors” sent to Rome, illustrating Paul’s metaphor for the church’s mission. Foundational Truths Illustrated 1. Future Resurrection: The “house…eternal” confirms bodily restoration, not mere escape. 2. Present Assurance: The Spirit’s guarantee secures believers now. 3. Personal Accountability: Salvation is a gift, yet works done in Christ matter for reward (1 Corinthians 3:12-15). 4. Substitutionary Death: Christ became sin for us; our right standing rests entirely on Him. 5. Global Mission: Every believer carries the King’s message of peace. Practical Application • Hold possessions loosely; your true home is eternal. • Let confidence in Christ free you from fear of death or people’s opinions. • Aim for daily choices that will stand the test of Christ’s review. • Mirror transparent integrity—no hidden agendas—in sharing the gospel. • See others through the lens of the cross; no one is beyond God’s reach. • Speak with the dignity and urgency of an ambassador authorized by heaven. Literary Highlights Paul writes with vivid contrasts—mortal/immortal, seen/unseen, now/then—drawing readers into a hopeful vision anchored in God’s unbreakable promise. The tone is both pastoral and persuasive, inviting every follower of Jesus to lift eyes from the temporary and invest in what lasts forever. Connections to Additional Scriptures Eternal Perspective Philippians 3:20-21 - Our citizenship is in heaven. Faith Over Sight Hebrews 11:1 - Faith is the assurance of things hoped for. Accountability Romans 14:10-12 - We will all stand before God's judgment seat. New Creation Galatians 6:15 - What counts is the new creation. Reconciliation Colossians 1:20 - Christ reconciled all things to Himself. Teaching Points The Earthly Tent and Eternal House Paul contrasts our temporary earthly bodies with the eternal dwelling God has prepared for us. For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is dismantled, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands (2 Corinthians 5:1). Living by Faith, Not by Sight The call to live by faith is emphasized, as believers are to focus on the unseen eternal realities rather than the visible, temporary world. For we walk by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7). The Judgment Seat of Christ Paul reminds us that all believers will appear before Christ to receive what is due for their actions. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive his due for the things done in the body, whether good or bad (2 Corinthians 5:10). New Creation in Christ The transformative power of being in Christ is highlighted, as believers are made new. Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come! (2 Corinthians 5:17). Ministry of Reconciliation Paul speaks of the ministry entrusted to us, to reconcile others to God through Christ. All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18). Practical Applications Embrace Eternal Perspective Live with the awareness that our true home is in heaven, which should influence our priorities and decisions on earth. Cultivate Faith Over Sight Practice trusting God in all circumstances, even when the path is unclear, knowing that He is faithful. Prepare for Accountability Reflect on your life and actions, understanding that you will give an account to Christ for how you lived. Live as a New Creation Let go of past sins and embrace your identity in Christ, allowing His Spirit to transform your life. Engage in Reconciliation Actively participate in sharing the message of reconciliation, seeking to bring others into a relationship with God through Christ. People 1. Paul The apostle and author of the letter, who is writing to the Corinthians. He discusses themes of reconciliation, the new creation in Christ, and the ministry of reconciliation. 2. Christ Referred to as the one who died for all and was raised again, making it possible for believers to become a new creation. Paul emphasizes Christ's role in reconciling the world to God. 3. God The one who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation. God is portrayed as the initiator of reconciliation and the one who does not count people's sins against them. 4. Believers/Us Referring to Paul and his companions, as well as the broader community of believers who have been given the ministry of reconciliation. They are described as ambassadors for Christ. 5. The World Implied as those who are being reconciled to God through Christ. The world is the object of God's reconciliation efforts. In the original Greek, key terms such as "καταλλάσσω" (katallassō) meaning "to reconcile" and "πρεσβεύω" (presbeuō) meaning "to be an ambassador" are significant in understanding the roles and relationships described in this chapter. Places 1. Earthly Tent This term refers to our physical bodies. In 2 Corinthians 5:1, Paul uses the metaphor of an "earthly tent" to describe the temporary nature of our physical existence. The Greek word used here is "σκῆνος" (skēnos), which means a tent or tabernacle, emphasizing the transient and impermanent nature of our earthly life. 2. Heavenly Dwelling Contrasted with the earthly tent, the "heavenly dwelling" represents the eternal, glorified bodies believers will receive. In 2 Corinthians 5:1-2, Paul speaks of a "building from God, an eternal house in heaven," highlighting the permanence and divine origin of our future state. 3. Home in the Body This phrase refers to our current life on earth. In 2 Corinthians 5:6, Paul mentions being "at home in the body," which signifies living in our present physical form, with its limitations and separation from the Lord. 4. Away from the Body and at Home with the Lord This concept describes the believer's state after death. In 2 Corinthians 5:8, Paul expresses a preference to be "away from the body and at home with the Lord," indicating the believer's ultimate desire to be in the presence of Christ, free from earthly constraints. Events 1. The Earthly Tent and Heavenly Dwelling Paul begins by contrasting our earthly bodies with a heavenly dwelling: "For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is dismantled, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands" (2 Corinthians 5:1). The Greek word for "tent" (σκῆνος, skēnos) emphasizes the temporary nature of our physical bodies. 2. Longing for Immortality Paul expresses a longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling: "Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling" (2 Corinthians 5:2). The Greek verb "groan" (στενάζω, stenazō) conveys a deep yearning for the eternal. 3. The Spirit as a Guarantee The Holy Spirit is given as a guarantee of what is to come: "Now it is God who has prepared us for this very purpose and has given us the Spirit as a pledge of what is to come" (2 Corinthians 5:5). The term "pledge" (ἀρραβών, arrabōn) refers to a deposit or down payment, assuring believers of their future inheritance. 4. Living by Faith, Not by Sight Paul emphasizes living by faith: "For we walk by faith, not by sight" (2 Corinthians 5:7). The Greek word for "walk" (περιπατέω, peripateō) implies a continuous way of life guided by faith. 5. Confidence and the Desire to Please God Paul expresses confidence and the desire to please God: "So we aspire to please Him, whether we are here in this body or away from it" (2 Corinthians 5:9). The Greek word "aspire" (φιλοτιμέομαι, philotimeomai) suggests an earnest ambition or goal. 6. The Judgment Seat of Christ Paul speaks of appearing before Christ's judgment seat: "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive his due for the things done in the body, whether good or bad" (2 Corinthians 5:10). The term "judgment seat" (βῆμα, bēma) refers to a tribunal or place of judgment. 7. The Ministry of Reconciliation Paul describes the ministry of reconciliation: "All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation" (2 Corinthians 5:18). The Greek word for "reconcile" (καταλλάσσω, katallassō) means to restore a relationship to harmony. 8. Ambassadors for Christ Believers are called ambassadors for Christ: "Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us" (2 Corinthians 5:20). The term "ambassador" (πρεσβεύω, presbeuō) indicates a representative or envoy. 9. The Righteousness of God in Christ Paul concludes with the message of righteousness through Christ: "God made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God" (2 Corinthians 5:21). The Greek word for "righteousness" (δικαιοσύνη, dikaiosynē) signifies a state of being right with God. Lessons from 2 Corinthians 5 1. Our Earthly Tent is Temporary In 2 Corinthians 5:1, Paul reminds us that "if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands." This verse encourages us to view our physical bodies as temporary dwellings. Just like a tent is not meant to be a permanent home, our earthly lives are fleeting. This perspective helps us prioritize eternal values over temporary pleasures, focusing on what truly matters in the grand scheme of God's plan. 2. Longing for Our Heavenly Home Paul expresses a deep yearning for our heavenly dwelling in 2 Corinthians 5:2, where he writes, "Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling." This longing is a natural part of our spiritual journey, reminding us that our true citizenship is in heaven. Embrace this longing as a motivator to live a life that reflects the values of our eternal home, keeping our eyes fixed on the promises of God. 3. The Spirit as a Guarantee In 2 Corinthians 5:5, we learn that "God has prepared us for this very purpose and has given us the Spirit as a pledge of what is to come." The Holy Spirit is our guarantee, a divine deposit ensuring our future inheritance. This assurance empowers us to live boldly and confidently, knowing that God's promises are steadfast and true. Let the Spirit guide you in your daily walk, providing comfort and direction. 4. Walking by Faith, Not by Sight Paul's declaration in 2 Corinthians 5:7, "For we walk by faith, not by sight," is a powerful reminder to trust in God's unseen hand. In a world that often demands tangible evidence, faith calls us to rely on God's promises and His Word. This faith walk encourages us to step out in obedience, even when the path is unclear, trusting that God is leading us toward His perfect will. 5. Pleasing God as Our Aim In 2 Corinthians 5:9, Paul states, "So we aspire to please Him, whether we are here in this body or away from it." Our ultimate goal should be to please God in all that we do. This mindset shifts our focus from seeking human approval to living a life that honors our Creator. By aligning our actions with His will, we find true fulfillment and purpose. 6. The Judgment Seat of Christ Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 5:10 that "we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive his due for the things done in the body, whether good or bad." This sobering truth encourages us to live with accountability, knowing that our actions have eternal consequences. Let this awareness inspire you to live a life of integrity and righteousness. 7. The Ministry of Reconciliation In 2 Corinthians 5:18, Paul reveals that "God has given us the ministry of reconciliation." As ambassadors for Christ, we are called to share the message of reconciliation with the world. This mission is not just for pastors or missionaries but for every believer. Embrace this calling by extending grace, forgiveness, and love to those around you, reflecting the heart of Christ. 8. New Creation in Christ 2 Corinthians 5:17 proclaims, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" This transformation is a testament to the power of Christ's resurrection. Embrace your new identity in Him, leaving behind past mistakes and living in the freedom and victory that comes from being a new creation. 9. Christ's Love Compels Us Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 5:14, "For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that One died for all, therefore all died." The love of Christ is a driving force that compels us to live selflessly and sacrificially. Let His love be the motivation behind your actions, inspiring you to serve others and share the gospel with passion and compassion. 10. Ambassadors for Christ Finally, in 2 Corinthians 5:20, Paul declares, "We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us." As ambassadors, we represent Christ to the world, carrying His message of hope and salvation. This role is both a privilege and a responsibility, calling us to live lives that reflect His character and draw others to Him. Embrace this identity and let your life be a testament to the transformative power of the gospel. Topics 1. The Heavenly Dwelling (2 Corinthians 5:1-5) Paul discusses the contrast between our earthly bodies and the eternal, heavenly dwelling prepared by God. He uses the metaphor of a "tent" to describe our temporary earthly bodies, emphasizing the hope of a "building from God" (v. 1). The Greek word "οἰκοδομή" (oikodomē) refers to a permanent structure, highlighting the eternal nature of our heavenly bodies. 2. Living by Faith, Not by Sight (2 Corinthians 5:6-10) Paul encourages believers to live by faith, confident in their future with the Lord. He states, "For we walk by faith, not by sight" (v. 7). The Greek word "πίστις" (pistis) for "faith" underscores trust and belief in God's promises, even when they are not visible. 3. The Ministry of Reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:11-21) Paul explains the role of believers as ambassadors for Christ, tasked with the ministry of reconciliation. He writes, "God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting men’s trespasses against them" (v. 19). The Greek word "καταλλάσσω" (katallassō) means to reconcile or restore a relationship, emphasizing the transformative work of Christ in restoring humanity to God. Each topic reflects key theological themes in 2 Corinthians 5, focusing on the hope of eternal life, the call to live by faith, and the mission of reconciliation through Christ. Themes 1. The Heavenly Dwelling Paul discusses the contrast between our earthly bodies and the eternal, heavenly dwelling prepared by God. He writes, "For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is dismantled, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands" (2 Corinthians 5:1). The Greek word "σκῆνος" (skēnos) for "tent" emphasizes the temporary nature of our earthly existence. 2. Longing for Immortality The apostle expresses a deep yearning for the eternal life promised by God, stating, "Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling" (2 Corinthians 5:2). This reflects the Christian hope for immortality and the transformation of our mortal bodies. 3. The Spirit as a Guarantee Paul highlights the role of the Holy Spirit as a pledge of our future inheritance: "Now it is God who has prepared us for this very purpose and has given us the Spirit as a pledge of what is to come" (2 Corinthians 5:5). The Greek term "ἀρραβών" (arrabōn) signifies a deposit or guarantee, underscoring the certainty of God's promise. 4. Living by Faith, Not by Sight The theme of faith over sight is central, as Paul writes, "For we walk by faith, not by sight" (2 Corinthians 5:7). This encourages believers to trust in God's promises despite not seeing them fulfilled yet. 5. The Ambition to Please God Paul emphasizes the believer's goal to live a life pleasing to God: "So we aspire to please Him, whether we are here in this body or away from it" (2 Corinthians 5:9). This reflects the Christian commitment to live according to God's will. 6. The Judgment Seat of Christ The inevitability of standing before Christ for judgment is a sobering theme: "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive his due for the things done in the body, whether good or bad" (2 Corinthians 5:10). The Greek word "βῆμα" (bēma) refers to a tribunal or judgment seat, highlighting accountability. 7. The Ministry of Reconciliation Paul describes the believer's role in reconciling others to God: "All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation" (2 Corinthians 5:18). The Greek "καταλλαγή" (katallagē) means reconciliation, emphasizing restored relationships with God. 8. The New Creation in Christ The transformative power of being in Christ is highlighted: "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" (2 Corinthians 5:17). This theme underscores the radical change in identity and life for believers. 9. Christ's Substitutionary Atonement Paul explains the doctrine of substitutionary atonement: "God made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God" (2 Corinthians 5:21). This highlights the exchange of our sin for Christ's righteousness. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for Eternal Hope Thank God for the promise of eternal life and the home He has prepared for us. Strength to Walk by Faith Pray for the strength to trust God in all circumstances and to live by faith. Readiness for Christ's Judgment Ask for a heart that is ready and willing to be accountable to Christ for your actions. Transformation as a New Creation Seek the Holy Spirit's help in living out your new identity in Christ. Boldness in Reconciliation Pray for opportunities and courage to share the message of reconciliation with others. Answering Tough Questions 1. 2 Corinthians 5:1 – How do we reconcile the idea of a “heavenly dwelling” with modern scientific understanding of the human body and physical laws? 2. 2 Corinthians 5:7 – If faith overrides direct evidence, how can we trust any form of empirical or logical inquiry? 3. 2 Corinthians 5:17 – How can believers be “new creations” while still exhibiting old habits, flaws, and sins? 4. 2 Corinthians 5:19 – If God reconciled the world to Himself, why is there still a need for further salvation or evangelism among non-Christians? 5. 2 Corinthians 5:21 – How does Christ “becoming sin” fit logically with the concept of personal responsibility and justice? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Paul describe our earthly and heavenly bodies? 2. How can Paul’s longing for his heavenly dwelling inspire your own perspective on life and death? 3. What does it mean to appear before the judgment seat of Christ? 4. What does Christ’s death mean for the lives we lead according to verses 14-15? 5. How does Christ’s love compel us in our actions and attitudes? 6. What is the "ministry of reconciliation," and what role do we play in it? 7. How does becoming a new creation in Christ affect our interactions and relationships with others? 8. What does it mean to no longer regard anyone from a worldly point of view? 9. How does understanding that we are Christ's ambassadors affect our sense of purpose and responsibility? 10. What does it mean that God made Christ, who had no sin, to be sin for us? 11. How does the reality of becoming the righteousness of God in Christ inspire you? 12. How can you practically apply the truths of reconciliation and the new creation in your everyday life? 13. How can you exhibit courage in the face of trials as Paul described in this chapter? 14. How does the reality of Christ’s sacrificial love affect your understanding of love in general? 15. How does understanding our future heavenly dwelling influence how we live today? 16. How does the promise of a heavenly dwelling give hope in times of struggle? 17. How should the concept of the judgment seat of Christ affect our actions? 18. How can you live your life in a way that reflects you are a new creation? 19. In what ways can you be an ambassador for Christ in your community? 20. How can this chapter affect your understanding of the Gospel's role in your life? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions