We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;

2 CORINTHIANS 4:8KJV
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2 Corinthians 4:8 (KJV)

What does 2 Corinthians 4:8 mean?

2 Corinthians 4:8 describes how Paul and his companions face constant difficulties and confusion, but they do not let these troubles crush or defeat them. Even when they are uncertain or overwhelmed, they do not lose hope or give up.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth about the hardships he and his fellow workers endure as they spread the message of Jesus. He uses strong contrasts to show that, although they are pressed and puzzled by their circumstances, they are not destroyed or left hopeless. This verse highlights the resilience and inner strength that comes from their faith, even in the midst of real suffering.

The Greek behind 2 Corinthians 4:8

  • "troubled" (θλίβω, thlibō): This word often means to be pressed, squeezed, or under pressure. Paul is describing a sense of being surrounded by difficulties, not just minor annoyances.
  • "distressed" (στενοχωρέω, stenochōreō): This word means to be cramped or hemmed in, sometimes with the sense of having no way out. Paul says they are not completely cornered or crushed, even when under pressure.
  • "perplexed" (ἀπορέω, aporeō): This word means to be at a loss or uncertain, like not knowing what to do next. Paul admits to feeling confused or unsure at times.
  • "despair" (ἐξαπορέω, exaporeō): This is a stronger word than "perplexed," meaning to be utterly at a loss or to despair completely. Paul insists that, even when confused, they never reach the point of total hopelessness.

Why 2 Corinthians 4:8 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Paul’s endurance is not because he avoids hardship, but because he is not overcome by it; the troubles are real, but so is his resilience.
  • The contrasts Paul uses help readers see that feeling confused or pressured does not mean failure or defeat; it is possible to struggle and still hold on to hope.
  • In the wider context, this verse is part of Paul’s explanation that his ministry is marked by weakness and suffering, but also by God’s sustaining power, which is a key theme in this letter.

Where else these words appear

“distressed” Greek G4729 · used in 2 verses

“despair” Greek G1820 · used in 2 verses

  • 2 Corinthians 1:8 For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia, that we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life:

“perplexed” Greek G639 · used in 4 verses

  • John 13:22 Then the disciples looked one on another, doubting of whom he spake.
  • Acts 25:20 And because I doubted of such manner of questions, I asked him whether he would go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these matters.
  • Galatians 4:20 I desire to be present with you now, and to change my voice; for I stand in doubt of you.

“troubled” Greek G2346 · used in 10 verses

  • Matthew 7:14 Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
  • 2 Corinthians 7:5 For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears.
  • 2 Thessalonians 1:7 And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels,