Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you.
2 CORINTHIANS 4:14KJVWhat does 2 Corinthians 4:14 mean?
2 Corinthians 4:14 says that just as God raised Jesus from the dead, He will also raise Paul and his companions, and bring them together with the Corinthian believers into His presence. This verse expresses confidence in the future resurrection of all who belong to Jesus.
Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, reminding them that the same God who brought Jesus back to life will do the same for all believers. Paul’s point is to encourage the Corinthians by connecting their hope directly to what God has already done for Jesus, showing that their future with God is secure.
The Greek behind 2 Corinthians 4:14
- The word "raised up" (ἐγείρας, egeiras) is used twice, first for Jesus and then for "us," emphasizing that the same action God took for Jesus will be repeated for believers. This repetition highlights the certainty and connection between Jesus’ resurrection and the believer’s future.
- "Present" (παραστήσει, parastēsei) means to bring or set before someone, often in a formal or honored way. Here, it suggests not just being raised to life but being brought into God’s presence together, showing a sense of reunion and acceptance.
- The phrase "with you" (σὺν ὑμῖν, syn hymin) stresses that this hope is shared by all believers, not just Paul and his companions, but the whole church community.
Why 2 Corinthians 4:14 matters
- This verse clarifies that the Christian hope of resurrection is grounded in what God has already done for Jesus, not just wishful thinking or vague optimism.
- Paul’s words connect personal suffering and endurance in ministry (the theme of the surrounding verses) to the bigger picture of resurrection and reunion, giving purpose and encouragement.
- The verse emphasizes the unity of all believers in the future resurrection, countering any idea that spiritual rewards are only for a select few.