Bible Strands
2 Corinthians 5:11
Therefore, 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.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — Paul addresses the Corinthian believers to explain his ministry's motivation immediately after describing the universal judgment seat of Christ. He speaks to confront their doubts and counter critics who judge by outward appearances.
The words — The participle εἰδότες (eidotes) means "knowing," and the verb πείθομεν (peithomen) translates literally as "we persuade." Paul anchors his apostolic effort in the concrete reality of fearing the Lord.
The thread — The motif of reverent fear driving ministry conduct runs through Jude 1:23, Hebrews 10:31, and 2 Timothy 2:24. These texts consistently link awe of God with practical engagement in saving and teaching others.
Why it lands — The passage requires readers to evaluate their motives against God's clear judgment rather than human opinion. It demands a deliberate shift from seeking external validation to living with accountable transparency.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.
Cross-references
- Jude 1:23 save others by snatching them from the fire; and to still others show mercy tempered with fear, hating even the clothing stained by the flesh.
- Hebrews 10:31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
- 2 Timothy 2:24 And a servant of the Lord must not be quarrelsome, but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, and forbearing.
- Luke 12:5 But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear the One who, after you have been killed, has authority to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear Him!
- 2 Corinthians 4:1 Therefore, since God in His mercy has given us this ministry, we do not lose heart.
- Revelation 20:15 And if anyone was found whose name was not written in the Book of Life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.
- Nahum 1:6 Who can withstand His indignation? Who can endure His burning anger? His wrath is poured out like fire; even rocks are shattered before Him.
- Acts 18:13 “This man is persuading the people to worship God in ways contrary to the law,” they said.
- 2 Corinthians 6:1 As God’s fellow workers, then, we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain.
- 1 Thessalonians 2:3 For our appeal does not arise from deceit or ulterior motives or trickery.