King James Version
What Does 2 Corinthians 3:2 Mean?
“Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men:”
Context
1
Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you?
2
Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men:
3
Forasmuch as ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us, written not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables of the heart.
4
And such trust have we through Christ to God-ward:
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(2) **Ye are our epistle written in our hearts.**—This is an answer. They, the Corinthian converts, are written on his heart. In his thoughts and prayers for them he finds his true commendatory letter, and this a letter which is patent to the eyes of all men. In “known and read” we find the familiar play on the two words, *epiginoskein* and *anaginoskein.* (See Note on 2Corinthians 1:13.) All who knew St. Paul could read what was there written.
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 3:2 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 3:2
1 Corinthians 9:1-2
→1 Thessalonians 1:8
→Romans 1:8
→Philippians 1:7
→2 Corinthians 7:3
→2 Corinthians 12:15
→Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge