2 corinthians 5:16 - Therefore we know no one after the flesh from now on. Even though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now we know him so no more.
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What does "2 corinthians 5:16" mean?
This verse, 2 Corinthians 5:16, is a pivotal passage in Paul's theology, and it's often debated. Here's a breakdown of its meaning, considering the context of the surrounding verses:
"Therefore we know no one after the flesh from now on."
"After the flesh": This phrase ("kata sarka" in Greek) refers to evaluating someone based on outward appearances, social status, ethnicity, worldly achievements, or human standards. It's about judging according to superficial or temporary things rather than spiritual reality.
"We know no one": Paul is speaking primarily about how he and his fellow ministers (and by extension, all Christians) should relate to others. They are no longer to base their understanding or relationship with anyone on these worldly standards. Instead, they should see them through the lens of Christ and their potential for transformation in Him. It's about recognizing their inherent worth as beings created in God's image and their potential for redemption.
"From now on": This indicates a shift in perspective and priorities. After becoming followers of Christ, their understanding of people changed radically.
"Even though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now we know him so no more."
"Known Christ after the flesh": This is the more controversial part. It could mean:
Before his conversion: Paul (then Saul) might be referring to how he used to perceive Jesus before his conversion on the road to Damascus. He rejected Jesus, perhaps viewing Him as a political threat or a blasphemer, based on worldly standards and expectations of what the Messiah should be like.
A limited understanding of Jesus during his earthly ministry: Paul could be acknowledging that even those who knew Jesus physically while He walked the earth (including the other apostles) may have had a limited understanding of His true identity and mission at the time. They may have focused on His miracles, teachings, or political potential without fully grasping His spiritual purpose as the Messiah and the Son of God.
"Yet now we know him so no more": This signifies that Paul's understanding of Christ has been radically transformed. He no longer sees Jesus through the lens of earthly expectations, political hopes, or superficial observation. Instead, he sees Him as the resurrected Lord, the Savior of the world, and the one who reconciles humanity to God. His knowledge of Christ is now based on spiritual revelation and a deep, personal relationship.
In summary, the verse is saying:
We should no longer judge or relate to people based on superficial, worldly standards or outward appearances.
Even though we (including Paul himself) may have once had a limited or flawed understanding of Christ, based on earthly perspectives or expectations, we now have a deeper, spiritual understanding of Him as the resurrected Lord and the source of reconciliation.
Significance:
This verse highlights a crucial aspect of Christian discipleship:
Transformation of Perspective: Conversion to Christ brings about a profound change in how we see ourselves, others, and the world.
Spiritual Vision: We are called to look beyond the surface and recognize the inherent value and potential of every person.
Focus on Reconciliation: Our goal should be to promote reconciliation and healing, rather than division or judgment based on worldly standards.
The verse is a challenge to Christians to move beyond superficial judgments and embrace a deeper, more compassionate understanding of others, based on the transformative power of Christ.
2 corinthians 5:16 - Therefore we know no one after the flesh from now on. Even though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now we know him so no more.
What does "2 corinthians 5:16" mean?
This verse, 2 Corinthians 5:16, is a pivotal passage in Paul's theology, and it's often debated. Here's a breakdown of its meaning, considering the context of the surrounding verses:
"Therefore we know no one after the flesh from now on."
"After the flesh": This phrase ("kata sarka" in Greek) refers to evaluating someone based on outward appearances, social status, ethnicity, worldly achievements, or human standards. It's about judging according to superficial or temporary things rather than spiritual reality.
"We know no one": Paul is speaking primarily about how he and his fellow ministers (and by extension, all Christians) should relate to others. They are no longer to base their understanding or relationship with anyone on these worldly standards. Instead, they should see them through the lens of Christ and their potential for transformation in Him. It's about recognizing their inherent worth as beings created in God's image and their potential for redemption.
"From now on": This indicates a shift in perspective and priorities. After becoming followers of Christ, their understanding of people changed radically.
"Even though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now we know him so no more."
"Known Christ after the flesh": This is the more controversial part. It could mean:
Before his conversion: Paul (then Saul) might be referring to how he used to perceive Jesus before his conversion on the road to Damascus. He rejected Jesus, perhaps viewing Him as a political threat or a blasphemer, based on worldly standards and expectations of what the Messiah should be like.
A limited understanding of Jesus during his earthly ministry: Paul could be acknowledging that even those who knew Jesus physically while He walked the earth (including the other apostles) may have had a limited understanding of His true identity and mission at the time. They may have focused on His miracles, teachings, or political potential without fully grasping His spiritual purpose as the Messiah and the Son of God.
"Yet now we know him so no more": This signifies that Paul's understanding of Christ has been radically transformed. He no longer sees Jesus through the lens of earthly expectations, political hopes, or superficial observation. Instead, he sees Him as the resurrected Lord, the Savior of the world, and the one who reconciles humanity to God. His knowledge of Christ is now based on spiritual revelation and a deep, personal relationship.
In summary, the verse is saying:
We should no longer judge or relate to people based on superficial, worldly standards or outward appearances.
Even though we (including Paul himself) may have once had a limited or flawed understanding of Christ, based on earthly perspectives or expectations, we now have a deeper, spiritual understanding of Him as the resurrected Lord and the source of reconciliation.
Significance:
This verse highlights a crucial aspect of Christian discipleship:
Transformation of Perspective: Conversion to Christ brings about a profound change in how we see ourselves, others, and the world.
Spiritual Vision: We are called to look beyond the surface and recognize the inherent value and potential of every person.
Focus on Reconciliation: Our goal should be to promote reconciliation and healing, rather than division or judgment based on worldly standards.
The verse is a challenge to Christians to move beyond superficial judgments and embrace a deeper, more compassionate understanding of others, based on the transformative power of Christ.