Devine Scripture

2 Corinthians 8:21

What does 2 Corinthians 8:21 mean?

A plain-English look at 2 Corinthians 8:21 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What 2 Corinthians 8:21 means

Paul articulates the guiding principle: they aim for what is honorable not only before the Lord but also in the sight of people. Integrity is both theological and practical; God sees the heart, and the world watches conduct. By seeking commendable practices in both spheres, the team upholds God’s reputation and strengthens trust among the churches. This verse elevates administrative caution to an act of worship and witness. It encourages believers to pursue unimpeachable transparency in all service, knowing it reflects the Lord they serve.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

for we take thought for things honorable, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

for we take thought for things honorable, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

For the business has been so ordered by us as to have the approval, not only of the Lord, but of men.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

providing right things, not only before the Lord, but also before men;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

For we forecast what may be good, not only before God but also before men.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

for we provide for things honest, not only before [the] Lord, but also before men.

Context

Having explained the immediate goal of avoiding blame (v. 20), Paul now states the broader ethic that governs ministry. This principle frames the sending of yet another proven brother in verse 22 and the concluding commendations in verse 23. The flow shows that accountability is not distrust but devotion to God’s honor and the church’s unity.

v.20avoiding this, that any man should blame us in the matter of this bounty which is ministered by us:

v.21This passage

v.22And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have many times proved earnest in many things, but now much more earnest, by reason of the great confidence which he hath in you.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Philippians 4:8

    Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honorable, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

  • Matthew 6:1

    Take heed that ye do not your righteousness before men, to be seen of them: else ye have no reward with your Father who is in heaven.

  • 1 Timothy 5:14

    I desire therefore that the younger widows marry, bear children, rule the household, give no occasion to the adversary for reviling:

  • Matthew 6:4

    that thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father who seeth in secret shall recompense thee.

  • Matthew 23:5

    But all their works they do to be seen of men: for they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments,

  • 2 Corinthians 2:17

    For we are not as the many, corrupting the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God, speak we in Christ.

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