2 Corinthians 3:5 (KJV)

What does 2 Corinthians 3:5 mean?

2 Corinthians 3:5 says that Paul and his companions do not consider themselves capable or qualified by their own ability to accomplish anything, but instead, their ability and adequacy come from God. The verse points out that any sufficiency they have is not self-made but is given by God.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, explaining that he and those with him are not relying on their own strength or wisdom in their ministry. The context is about being ministers of a new covenant, and Paul wants the Corinthians to understand that true competence for this work comes from God, not from personal merit or skill.

The Greek behind 2 Corinthians 3:5

• "Sufficient" (ἱκανοί, hikanos, G2425) and "sufficiency" (ἱκανότης, hikanotēs, G2426) both carry the idea of being qualified, competent, or able. Paul is emphasizing that any real qualification or ability is not self-generated but comes from God.
• "Think" (λογίζομαι, logizomai, G3049) means to consider, reckon, or count. Paul is careful to say they do not even consider anything as coming from themselves, highlighting humility and dependence on God.
• "Of ourselves" (ἑαυτῶν, heautōn, G1438) is repeated, stressing that nothing originates from their own resources or abilities.

Why 2 Corinthians 3:5 matters

• This verse clears up the misunderstanding that spiritual leaders or Christians are qualified for ministry or good works by their own talents or efforts; Paul insists that all adequacy comes from God.
• The verse emphasizes humility and dependence on God, which is a key theme in Paul’s letters and helps frame the attitude believers should have toward their abilities.
• In the wider passage, Paul is contrasting the old and new covenants, showing that the new covenant ministry is empowered by God’s Spirit, not by human effort or qualifications.