King James Version
2 Corinthians 4:7 in the King James Version says “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.” — study this verse from 2 Corinthians chapter 4 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.”
2 Corinthians 4:7 · KJV
For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake.
For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. hath: Gr. is he who hath
But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.
We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; in despair: or, altogether without help, or, means
Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;
KJV Study — Public Domain
“we have”
G2192to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
“vessels”
G4632a vessel, implement, equipment or apparatus (literally or figuratively (specially, a wife as contributing to the usefulness of the husband))
“the excellency”
G5236a throwing beyond others, i.e., (figuratively) supereminence; adverbially (with g1519 or g2596) pre- eminently
“of the power”
G1411force (literally or figuratively); specially, miraculous power (usually by implication, a miracle itself)
“may be”
G5600(may, might, can, could, would, should, must, etc.; also with g1487 and its comparative, as well as with other particles) be
“of God”
G2316a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)
“and”
G2532and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
“not”
G3361(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
“of”
G1537a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
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.
2 Corinthians 4:7 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to 2 Corinthians 4:7 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge