King James Version
What Does 2 Corinthians 1:4 Mean?
“Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.”
Context
2
Grace be to you and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.
3
Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort;
4
Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.
5
For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.
6
And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. is effectual: or, is wrought
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(4) **Who comforteth us.**—For the writer, the name “God of all comfort” was the outcome of a living personal experience. He had felt that ever-continuing comfort flowing into his soul, and he knew that it had not been given to him for his own profit only, but that it might flow forth to others. Heathen poets had asserted one side of the truth. Sophocles had said—
“They comfort others who themselves have mourned;”
*—Fragm.*
and Virgil—
“Not ignorant of ill, I, too, have learnt
To succour those that suffer.”—*Æn.* i. 630.
There was a yet deeper truth in the thought that the power to comfort varies with the measure in which we have been comforted ourselves. Sorrow alone may lead to sympathy, but it falls short of that power to speak a word in season to them that are weary (Isaiah 1:4), which is of the very essence of the work of comforting. The words imply that he had passed through a time of tribulation himself. They imply also that he knew of their troubles. (Comp. 2Corinthians 7:7-11.)
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 2 Corinthians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
2 Corinthians 1:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 2 Corinthians 1:4
1 Thessalonians 5:11
→Isaiah 51:12
→2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
→2 Corinthians 7:6-7
→Isaiah 40:1
→Psalms 32:7
→Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge