As also ye have acknowledged us in part, that we are your rejoicing, even as ye also are ours in the day of the Lord Jesus.

2 CORINTHIANS 1:14KJV
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2 Corinthians 1:14 (KJV)

What does 2 Corinthians 1:14 mean?

2 Corinthians 1:14 means that Paul and his companions are a source of pride or joy for the Corinthian believers, just as the Corinthians are a source of pride for Paul and his team, especially when Jesus returns. Paul is highlighting a mutual relationship of appreciation and affirmation between himself and the church.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, addressing misunderstandings and tensions from previous interactions. In this verse, Paul points out that the Corinthians have already recognized, at least in part, the value and sincerity of his ministry. He looks ahead to "the day of the Lord Jesus," meaning the future time when Jesus will return, and says that both he and the Corinthians will be able to rejoice in each other before Christ.

The Greek behind 2 Corinthians 1:14

  • καύχημα (kauchēma; G2745): This word is translated as "rejoicing" and often means "boast" or "pride." Here, it carries the sense of something or someone you are proud of or celebrate, emphasizing the deep, positive connection between Paul and the Corinthians.
  • ἐπιγινώσκω (epiginōskō; G1921): Translated as "acknowledged," this word means to recognize fully or to know well. Paul is saying the Corinthians have come to truly understand or appreciate his ministry, at least in part.
  • ἐν τῇ ἡμέρᾳ (en tē hēmera; G1722, G2250): This phrase means "in the day," referring specifically to "the day of the Lord Jesus." It points to a future time of final reckoning or celebration when Christ returns, giving the verse an eternal perspective.

Why 2 Corinthians 1:14 matters

  • This verse clears up the idea that Paul is boasting about himself; instead, he is describing a mutual joy and affirmation that will be fully realized when Jesus returns.
  • It emphasizes the close, reciprocal relationship between Paul and the Corinthian church, showing that both parties are important to each other's spiritual journey.
  • By mentioning "the day of the Lord Jesus," Paul connects everyday relationships and ministry to the bigger picture of Christ’s return, reminding readers that what we build together in faith has lasting significance.

Where else these words appear

“rejoicing” Greek G2745 · used in 11 verses

  • Romans 4:2 For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath whereof to glory; but not before God.
  • 1 Corinthians 9:16 For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!
  • Galatians 6:4 But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.

“as” Greek G2509 · used in 13 verses

  • Romans 4:6 Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works,
  • 2 Corinthians 3:18 But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.
  • 1 Thessalonians 3:12 And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you:

“acknowledged” Greek G1921 · used in 38 verses

  • Matthew 7:16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
  • Luke 7:37 And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster box of ointment,
  • Acts 25:10 Then said Paul, I stand at Caesar's judgment seat, where I ought to be judged: to the Jews have I done no wrong, as thou very well knowest.

“part” Greek G3313 · used in 41 verses

  • Matthew 2:22 But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judaea in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither: notwithstanding, being warned of God in a dream, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee:
  • Acts 5:2 And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it at the apostles' feet.
  • 1 Corinthians 13:12 For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.