2 Corinthians 8:21
for we aim at what is honorable not only in the Lord’s sight but also in the sight of man.
English Standard Version (ESV)
This page isn't yet indexed by search engines.
Paul isn't just saying they hope to do right; he's actively stating their intention is to be honorable both to God and to others, acknowledging that public perception matters too. This is a crucial reminder that our faith isn't meant to be lived in a vacuum, but in a way that brings glory to God among people. It’s about integrity in all spheres, not just the private ones.
Paul is urging the Corinthians to complete their generosity by finishing the collection he had previously started. He's reminding them that true generosity is about a pure heart and good reputation, not just the act itself, emphasizing that their giving should be honorable to God and seen as such by others. This sets the stage for his discussion on the Corinthians' responsibility to fulfill their pledge to help the impoverished believers in Jerusalem.
Paul challenges the Corinthians to look beyond just pleasing God. What does it mean to live honorably in the eyes of others too?
In this verse, Paul highlights a vital principle for believers: our actions should aim for honor not just in our private devotion to God, but also in the public sphere of human relationships.
God's Standard and Human Perception
This isn't about seeking human applause or compromising godly principles for popularity. Instead, it’s about integrity. When our motives are pure before God, our actions should naturally bear a character that is commendable and trustworthy to those around us. It’s a call to a wholistic godliness that permeates every aspect of life.
Context matters! This verse comes right after Paul discusses generous giving. How does this principle apply to how we handle God's resources?
Paul is speaking to the Corinthian church about their offering for the needs of the Jerusalem believers. The principle of aiming for honor in both God's sight and man's sight is crucial for stewardship, especially concerning financial matters.
Transparency and Trust
When we are generous and faithful with what God has entrusted to us, it not only pleases Him but also builds trust and demonstrates integrity to the community. This is especially important in church finances and ministries, where transparency is key to maintaining healthy relationships and honoring God's name among people.
Understand the original words
kalos · Greek Adjective
This term refers to that which is morally good, upright, and carries the quality of being beautiful or attractive in a virtuous sense. In a biblical context, it denotes actions that are ethically blameless and worthy of respect.
This passage echoes the idea of letting your good deeds be seen, not for personal glory, but so that others will see your Father in heaven, aligning with the principle of honorable actions being visible.
Philippians 2:15Paul urges believers to be blameless and innocent, 'children of God without blemish in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation,' highlighting the importance of honorable conduct that stands out positively to the world.
Romans 12:17This verse directly advises 'Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all.' It reinforces the commitment to honorable actions, considering how they appear to everyone.
1 Timothy 3:7When describing the qualifications for overseers, this verse states they must have a 'good reputation with those outside the church,' emphasizing that a believer's honorable conduct is significant even to non-believers.
Paul isn't just saying they hope to do right; he's actively stating their intention is to be honorable both to God and to others, acknowledging that public perception matters too. This is a crucial reminder that our faith isn't meant to be lived in a vacuum, but in a way that brings glory to God among people. It’s about integrity in all spheres, not just the private ones.
Paul is urging the Corinthians to complete their generosity by finishing the collection he had previously started. He's reminding them that true generosity is about a pure heart and good reputation, not just the act itself, emphasizing that their giving should be honorable to God and seen as such by others. This sets the stage for his discussion on the Corinthians' responsibility to fulfill their pledge to help the impoverished believers in Jerusalem.
Paul is urging the Corinthians to complete their generosity by finishing the collection he had previously started. He's reminding them that true generosity is about a pure heart and good reputation, not just the act itself, emphasizing that their giving should be honorable to God and seen as such by others. This sets the stage for his discussion on the Corinthians' responsibility to fulfill their pledge to help the impoverished believers in Jerusalem.
Get the original Greek and Hebrew, verse-by-verse context, and related passages inside the app.
Ask a follow-up
Ask Sola things like:
Live chat about 2 Corinthians 8:21 is available in the Sola app.
"for we aim at what is honorable not only in the Lord’s sight but also in the sight of man." — Paul isn't just saying they hope to do right; he's actively stating their intention is to be honorable both to God and to others, acknowledging that public perception matters too. This is a cruci…
