Features Pricing Bible Library Churches About Sign in Begin

2 Corinthians 4:2

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.

2 Corinthians 4:2 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from 2 Corinthians 4:2 emphasizes the importance of honesty and integrity in handling the word of God. It encourages believers to renounce deceitful practices and instead proclaim the truth openly and transparently. By rejecting dishonesty and craftiness, individuals are able to commend themselves to others through the manifestation of truth. This verse teaches that handling the word of God deceitfully is unacceptable, and believers must act in a manner that aligns with their conscience and in the sight of God. It underscores the value of sincerity and authenticity in sharing the teachings of the Bible, emphasizing the need for genuine and faithful representation of God's word. Ultimately, this verse serves as a reminder to approach the scriptures with humility, honesty, and a genuine desire to share the truth with others.

Theological Overview

For this verse, there is a significant theological interpretation that revolves around the idea of honesty and integrity in handling the word of God. The phrase "renounced the hidden things of dishonesty" emphasizes the importance of transparency and sincerity in sharing the truths of the Bible. It is a call to reject deceitful practices when proclaiming the message of God. The verse also warns against using craftiness or manipulation in handling the word of God, underscoring the need for purity and sincerity in communication. By emphasizing the importance of manifesting the truth and commending oneself to every individual's conscience, the passage highlights the significance of living a life of integrity and authenticity in the sight of God. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder for believers to uphold the principles of truthfulness and sincerity when sharing and proclaiming the word of God.

2 Corinthians 4:2 in other translations

American Standard Version

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

World English Bible

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

Douay-Rheims

But we renounce the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness nor adulterating the word of God: but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience, in the sight of God.

Geneva Bible (1599)

But haue cast from vs ye clokes of shame, and walke not in craftines, neither handle we the worde of God deceitfully: but in declaration of the trueth we approue our selues to euery mans conscience in the sight of God.