King James Version

What Does 2 Corinthians 4:3 Mean?

2 Corinthians 4:3 in the King James Version says “But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:” — study this verse from 2 Corinthians chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:”

2 Corinthians 4:3 · KJV

Context

1

Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not;

2

But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God. dishonesty: Gr. shame

3

But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:

4

In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.

5

For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.

Read 2 Corinthians 4 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost (apollymenois, ἀπολλυμένοις, 'those who are perishing')—Paul addresses accusations that his ministry lacked effectiveness. If some don't receive the gospel, the fault lies not in the message or messenger but in the spiritual condition of hearers. The veiling is not in Paul's proclamation but in their hearts.

This echoes 3:14-15 where a veil lies over Israelite hearts when Moses is read. Kekalmmenon (κεκαλυμμένον, 'veiled, hidden') implies active concealment. The gospel's hiddenness to unbelievers is not God's doing but the work of the 'god of this world' (v. 4). Paul refuses to accept responsibility for spiritual blindness rooted in satanic deception and human rebellion.

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Historical & Cultural Context

In a results-oriented culture like Corinth's, ministry success was measured by numbers and acclaim. Paul's critics likely pointed to his rejection and suffering as evidence of failed ministry. Paul reframes the entire discussion: the gospel's apparent failure with some reveals their spiritual condition, not ministry inadequacy.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do you respond when people reject the gospel you share—do you question the message, the messenger, or recognize spiritual blindness?
  2. In what ways does modern Christianity mistakenly measure ministry success by response rates rather than faithfulness?
  3. How does recognizing satanic blindness (v. 4) change your approach to evangelism and prayer?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 13 words
εἰ1 of 13
G1487

if, whether, that, etc

δὲ2 of 13

“But”

G1161

but, and, etc

καὶ3 of 13
G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἐστὶν4 of 13

“be”

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

κεκαλυμμένον5 of 13

“hid”

G2572

to cover up (literally or figuratively)

τὸ6 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

εὐαγγέλιον7 of 13

“gospel”

G2098

a good message, i.e., the gospel

ἡμῶν8 of 13

“our”

G2257

of (or from) us

ἐν9 of 13

“to”

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

τοῖς10 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἀπολλυμένοις11 of 13

“them that are lost”

G622

to destroy fully (reflexively, to perish, or lose), literally or figuratively

ἐστὶν12 of 13

“be”

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

κεκαλυμμένον13 of 13

“hid”

G2572

to cover up (literally or figuratively)

Study Guide

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 4:3 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 4:3 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Corinthians 3:141 Corinthians 1:182 Thessalonians 2:9-112 Corinthians 2:15-16Matthew 11:252 Corinthians 4:4

Test Your Knowledge

2 Corinthians 4 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Corinthians Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

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