King James Version
What Does 2 Corinthians 5:4 Mean?
“For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life.”
Context
2
For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven:
3
If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked.
4
For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life.
5
Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit.
6
Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord:
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(4) **Being burdened.**—The whole passage is strikingly parallel to Wisdom Of Solomon 9:15. “The corruptible body presseth down the soul, and the earthly tabernacle weigheth down the mind that museth upon many things.” The *Wisdom of Solomon,* which no writer quotes before Clement of Rome, had probably been but recently written (possibly, as I believe, by Apollos), but St. Paul may well have become acquainted with it.
**Not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon.**—Better, *Seeing that we do not seek to put off, but to put on a garment.* The thought is that of one who thinks that the Coming of the Lord is near. He wishes, as he expects, to remain till that Coming (comp. 1Corinthians 15:51; 1Thessalonians 4:15), to let the incorruptible body supervene on the corruptible, to be changed instead of dying. In this way that which is mortal, subject to death, would be swallowed up of life, as death itself is swallowed up in victory. (1Corinthians 15:54.)
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 5:4 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 5:4
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge