2Cor 6:4-6 | RWP | e4.org | But in everything commending ourselves ( αλλ' εν παντ συνιστανοντες εαυτους ). Paul gives a marvellous summary of his argument about the dignity and glory of ministers of Christ as ministers of God ( ως θεου διακονο ) under three aspects, the first with in ( εν ) verses 7a, the second with by ( δια ) verses , the third with as ( ως ) verses . The negative view with εν we have in verse , then the positive in verses 7a. Each word carries a story that can be filled in from Paul's own life as a preacher with an echo in that of us all. In distresses ( εν στενοχωριαις ). In tight places ( ). Late word from στενοχωρεω (see on ).

‏ 2 Corinthians 6:4-6

But in everything commending ourselves ( αλλ' εν παντ συνιστανοντες εαυτους ). Paul gives a marvellous summary of his argument about the dignity and glory of ministers of Christ as

ministers of God ( ως θεου διακονο ) under three aspects, the first with

in ( εν ) verses 3-7a, the second with

by ( δια ) verses 7b,8, the third with

as ( ως ) verses 9-10. The negative view with εν we have in verse 3, then the positive in verses 4-7a. Each word carries a story that can be filled in from Paul's own life as a preacher with an echo in that of us all.

In distresses ( εν στενοχωριαις ). In tight places (12:10). Late word from στενοχωρεω (see on 4:8).

In stripes ( εν πληγαις ). In blows, wounds (Lu 10:30; 12:48; Ac 16:23, 33). Our plague.

In tumults ( εν ακαταστασιαις ). See on 1Co 14:33). Instabilities, often from politics.

In watchings ( εν αγρυπνιαις ). In sleeplessnesses, instances of insomnia. Old word, in N.T. only here and 11:27. Paul knew all about this.

In love unfeigned ( εν αγαπη ανυποκριτω ). Late and rare word ( α privative and υποκριτος, from υποκρινομα ) This is the only love that is worth while (Ro 12:9).