King James Version
What Does 2 Corinthians 6:3 Mean?
“Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed:”
Context
1
We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.
2
(For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)
3
Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed:
4
But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, approving: Gr. commending
5
In stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings; in tumults: or, in tossings to and fro
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(3) **Giving no offence . . .**—The participial construction is resumed from 2Corinthians 6:1, 2Corinthians 6:2 being treated as parenthetical. A subtle distinction in the two forms of the Greek negative suggests the thought that he is here giving, as it were, his own estimate of his aim and endeavour in his work. He avoids all occasion of offence, not because he fears censure for himself, but that “the ministry be not blamed.”
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 6:3 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 6:3
Romans 14:13
→1 Corinthians 9:12
→Matthew 17:27
→1 Corinthians 10:32-33
→1 Corinthians 9:22
→Matthew 18:6
→Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge