King James Version

What Does 2 Corinthians 5:7 Mean?

2 Corinthians 5:7 in the King James Version says “(For we walk by faith, not by sight:) — study this verse from 2 Corinthians chapter 5 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

(For we walk by faith, not by sight:)

2 Corinthians 5:7 · KJV


Context

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:

7

(For we walk by faith, not by sight:)

8

We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.

9

Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him. labour: or, endeavour


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
For we walk by faith, not by sight—Paul provides theological grounding for verse 6's tension. Dia pisteōs peripatoumen (διὰ πίστεως περιπατοῦμεν, "through faith we walk") versus dia eidous (διὰ εἴδους, "through sight/appearance"). Eidos (εἶδος) means visible form, outward appearance—what can be empirically verified. Pistis (πίστις, "faith") is confident trust in God's unseen promises, particularly resurrection hope.

This parenthetical statement explains why absence from the Lord doesn't diminish confidence. Faith bridges the gap between present reality and promised glory. The verb peripateō (περιπατέω, "walk") indicates ongoing lifestyle, not isolated acts—our entire life orientation is faith-governed, not appearance-governed. This counters both demand for empirical proof and despair over present suffering. Faith perceives eternal realities invisible to natural sight (Hebrews 11:1), making it superior, not inferior, to physical vision.

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Historical & Cultural Context

First-century culture highly valued visible honor, status, and power. Paul's opponents in Corinth boasted in appearance (v. 12)—eloquence, impressive presence, worldly credentials. Paul stakes apostolic authority on invisible realities: resurrection hope, internal transformation, God's coming vindication. This was profoundly counter-cultural and required constant reinforcement.

Reflection Questions

  1. What specific "visible" realities tempt you to doubt invisible spiritual promises—how do you combat this with faith?
  2. How is walking by faith different from blind optimism or wishful thinking—what makes Christian faith reasonable?
  3. In what areas of life are you tempted to demand visible proof rather than trust God's word—finances, relationships, ministry?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 7 words
διὰ1 of 7

by

G1223

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

πίστεως2 of 7

faith

G4102

persuasion, i.e., credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of god or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon christ

γὰρ3 of 7

(For

G1063

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

περιπατοῦμεν4 of 7

we walk

G4043

to tread all around, i.e., walk at large (especially as proof of ability); figuratively, to live, deport oneself, follow (as a companion or votary)

οὐ5 of 7

not

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

διὰ6 of 7

by

G1223

through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)

εἴδους·7 of 7

sight

G1491

a view, i.e., form (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 5:7 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 2 Corinthians 5:7 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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