2 Corinthians 4:2 - Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible

Bible Comments

But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.

Renounced - literally, 'bid farewell to.'

Of dishonesty - rather, 'of shame' (Romans 1:16). Shame would lead to hiding (2 Corinthians 4:3); whereas "we use great plainness of speech" (2 Corinthians 3:12), "by manifestation of the truth." We have nothing that needs hiding (cf. 2 Corinthians 3:3). He refers to the disingenuous artifices of "many" teachers at Corinth (2 Corinthians 2:17; 2 Corinthians 3:1; 2 Corinthians 11:13-15).

Handling ... deceitfully - so 'corrupt' or adulterate the "word of God" (2 Corinthians 2:17; cf. 1 Thessalonians 2:3-4).

Commending - recommending ourselves: recurring to 2 Corinthians 3:1.

To - to the verdict of.

Every man's conscience (2 Corinthians 5:11) - if only they be candid. Not to men's carnal judgment, as those alluded to, 2 Corinthians 3:1. In the sight of God (2 Corinthians 2:17; Galatians 1:10).

2 Corinthians 4:2

2 But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty,a not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.