2 Corinthians 4:1

Paul’s Perseverance in Ministry

4:1 Therefore, since we have this ministry, just as God has shown us mercy, ¹  we do not become discouraged. ² 

2 Corinthians 4:5

4:5 For we do not proclaim ³  ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your slaves ⁴  for Jesus’ sake.

2 Corinthians 10:9

10:9 I do not want to seem as though I am trying to terrify you with my letters,

2 Corinthians 11:29

11:29 Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is led into sin, ⁵  and I do not burn with indignation?

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¹ tn Grk “just as we have been shown mercy”; ἠλεήθημεν (hlehqhmen) has been translated as a “divine passive” which is a circumlocution for God as the active agent. For clarity this was converted to an active construction with God as subject in the translation.

² tn Or “we do not lose heart.”

³ tn Or “preach.”

⁴ tn Traditionally, “servants.” Though δοῦλος (doulos) is normally translated “servant,” the word does not bear the connotation of a free individual serving another. BDAG notes that “‘servant’ for ‘slave’ is largely confined to Biblical transl. and early American times…in normal usage at the present time the two words are carefully distinguished” (BDAG 260 s.v.). The most accurate translation is “bondservant” (sometimes found in the ASV for δοῦλος), in that it often indicates one who sells himself into slavery to another. But as this is archaic, few today understand its force.

⁵ tn Or “who is caused to stumble.”