Verse (Click for Chapter) New International Version We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; New Living Translation We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed, but not driven to despair. English Standard Version We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; Berean Standard Bible We are hard pressed on all sides, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; Berean Literal Bible being hard pressed in every way but not being crushed, being perplexed but not despairing, King James Bible We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; New King James Version We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; New American Standard Bible we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; NASB 1995 we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; NASB 1977 we are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; Legacy Standard Bible in every way afflicted, but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; Amplified Bible We are pressured in every way [hedged in], but not crushed; perplexed [unsure of finding a way out], but not driven to despair; Christian Standard Bible We are afflicted in every way but not crushed; we are perplexed but not in despair; Holman Christian Standard Bible We are pressured in every way but not crushed; we are perplexed but not in despair; American Standard Version we are pressed on every side, yet not straitened; perplexed, yet not unto despair; Contemporary English Version We often suffer, but we are never crushed. Even when we don't know what to do, we never give up. English Revised Version we are pressed on every side, yet not straitened; perplexed, yet not unto despair; GOD'S WORD® Translation In every way we're troubled, but we aren't crushed by our troubles. We're frustrated, but we don't give up. Good News Translation We are often troubled, but not crushed; sometimes in doubt, but never in despair; International Standard Version In every way we're troubled but not crushed, frustrated but not in despair, NET Bible We are experiencing trouble on every side, but are not crushed; we are perplexed, but not driven to despair; New Heart English Bible We are pressed on every side, yet not crushed; perplexed, yet not to despair; Webster's Bible Translation We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Weymouth New Testament We are hard pressed, yet never in absolute distress; perplexed, yet never utterly baffled; Majority Text Translations Majority Standard BibleWe are hard pressed on all sides, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; World English Bible We are pressed on every side, yet not crushed; perplexed, yet not to despair; Literal Translations Literal Standard Versionbeing in tribulation in every [way], but not crushed; perplexed, but not despairing; Berean Literal Bible being hard pressed in every way but not being crushed, being perplexed but not despairing, Young's Literal Translation on every side being in tribulation, but not straitened; perplexed, but not in despair; Smith's Literal Translation Being pressed in every thing, but not straightened; being at a loss, but not utterly perplexed; Catholic Translations Douay-Rheims BibleIn all things we suffer tribulation, but are not distressed; we are straitened, but are not destitute; Catholic Public Domain Version In all things, we endure tribulation, yet we are not in anguish. We are constrained, yet we are not destitute. New American Bible We are afflicted in every way, but not constrained; perplexed, but not driven to despair; New Revised Standard Version We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; Translations from Aramaic Lamsa BibleWe are distressed in every way, but not overwhelmed; we are harassed on all sides, but not conquered; Aramaic Bible in Plain English For we are squeezed in all things, but we are not strangled; we are harassed, but we are not condemned. NT Translations Anderson New TestamentWe are pressed on all sides, yet not restrained; perplexed, but not in despair; Godbey New Testament in everything being troubled, but not in difficulties incorrigible; being at a loss, but not utterly at a loss; Haweis New Testament We are afflicted on every side, yet not reduced to extremities; under difficulties, yet not in despair; Mace New Testament I am press'd on every side, yet not crush'd; perplexed, but not in despair; Weymouth New Testament We are hard pressed, yet never in absolute distress; perplexed, yet never utterly baffled; Worrell New Testament being pressed on every side, yet not cooped up; perplexed, yet not despairing; Worsley New Testament being afflicted on every side, but not oppressed; perplexed, but not in despair; Additional Translations ... Audio Bible Context Treasures in Jars of Clay7Now we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this surpassingly great power is from God and not from us. 8We are hard pressed on all sides, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed.… Cross References Romans 8:35-37 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? / As it is written: “For Your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.” / No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. Philippians 4:12-13 I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. In any and every situation I have learned the secret of being filled and being hungry, of having plenty and having need. / I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. James 1:2-4 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you encounter trials of many kinds, / because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. / Allow perseverance to finish its work, so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. 1 Peter 1:6-7 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in various trials / so that the proven character of your faith—more precious than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 4:12-13 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial that has come upon you, as though something strange were happening to you. / But rejoice that you share in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed at the revelation of His glory. John 16:33 I have told you these things so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world!” Acts 14:22 strengthening the souls of the disciples and encouraging them to continue in the faith. “We must endure many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said. 2 Timothy 3:12 Indeed, all who desire to live godly lives in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, Matthew 5:10-12 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. / Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. / Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets before you. Hebrews 12:1-3 Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off every encumbrance and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with endurance the race set out for us. / Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. / Consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. Isaiah 41:10 Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will surely help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. Psalm 34:19 Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him from them all. Psalm 46:1-3 For the choirmaster. Of the sons of Korah. According to Alamoth. A song. God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. / Therefore we will not fear, though the earth is transformed and the mountains are toppled into the depths of the seas, / though their waters roar and foam and the mountains quake in the surge. Selah Isaiah 43:2 When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you go through the rivers, they will not overwhelm you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched; the flames will not set you ablaze. Psalm 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. Treasury of Scripture We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; troubled. 2 Corinthians 1:8-10 For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia, that we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life: … 2 Corinthians 6:4 But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses, 2 Corinthians 7:5 For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears. yet. 2 Corinthians 4:16,17 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day… 2 Corinthians 12:10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. 1 Samuel 28:15 And Samuel said to Saul, Why hast thou disquieted me, to bring me up? And Saul answered, I am sore distressed; for the Philistines make war against me, and God is departed from me, and answereth me no more, neither by prophets, nor by dreams: therefore I have called thee, that thou mayest make known unto me what I shall do. not in despair. 1 Samuel 31:4 Then said Saul unto his armourbearer, Draw thy sword, and thrust me through therewith; lest these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and abuse me. But his armourbearer would not; for he was sore afraid. Therefore Saul took a sword, and fell upon it. Job 2:9,10 Then said his wife unto him, Dost thou still retain thine integrity? curse God, and die… Psalm 37:33 The LORD will not leave him in his hand, nor condemn him when he is judged. Jump to Previous Absolute Afflicted Apparent Baffled Crushed Despair Despairing Distress Distressed Driven Entirely Hard Issue Perplexed Pressed Round Shut Side Straitened Troubled Troubles Utterly WayJump to Next Absolute Afflicted Apparent Baffled Crushed Despair Despairing Distress Distressed Driven Entirely Hard Issue Perplexed Pressed Round Shut Side Straitened Troubled Troubles Utterly Way2 Corinthians 4 1. Paul declares how he has used all sincerity and diligence in preaching the gospel,7. and how his troubles and persecutions did redound to the praise of God's power, 12. to the benefit of the church, 16. and to the apostle's own eternal glory. We are hard pressed on all sides This phrase reflects the intense pressure and challenges faced by Paul and his companions in their ministry. The imagery of being "hard pressed" suggests a situation where they are surrounded by difficulties, much like being besieged in a battle. This can be connected to the various trials Paul describes in his letters, such as persecution, imprisonment, and opposition from both Jewish and Gentile communities. The phrase also echoes the broader biblical theme of believers facing trials, as seen in passages like James 1:2-4, which encourages believers to consider it pure joy when they face trials of many kinds. but not crushed perplexed but not in despair Persons / Places / Events 1. Paul the ApostleThe author of 2 Corinthians, Paul is writing to the church in Corinth. He is sharing his experiences and the challenges faced in his ministry. 2. Corinth A major city in ancient Greece, known for its wealth and immorality. The church in Corinth faced many challenges, including internal divisions and external pressures. 3. The Early Church The broader context involves the early Christian communities who were often persecuted and faced various trials for their faith. Teaching Points Endurance in TrialsBelievers are called to endure hardships with the assurance that they will not be crushed. This resilience is rooted in faith and the strength provided by God. Understanding Perplexity While believers may be perplexed by life's challenges, they are encouraged not to fall into despair. Trust in God's plan and wisdom is crucial. Spiritual Resilience The Greek word for "hard pressed" implies pressure, yet not being "crushed" suggests a divine resilience. This teaches us that God's support prevents us from being overwhelmed. Hope in Despair The contrast between being "perplexed" and "not in despair" highlights the hope that believers have in Christ, even when circumstances are confusing or difficult. Community Support The early church faced these challenges together, reminding us of the importance of community and mutual support in enduring trials. Bible Study Questions and Answers 1. What is the meaning of 2 Corinthians 4:8?2. How can we remain steadfast when "perplexed" according to 2 Corinthians 4:8? 3. What does "not in despair" teach us about trusting God's sovereignty? 4. How does 2 Corinthians 4:8 relate to Philippians 4:13's message of strength? 5. In what ways can we apply "hard pressed, but not crushed" daily? 6. How can prayer help us when feeling "perplexed" as in 2 Corinthians 4:8? 7. How does 2 Corinthians 4:8 address the concept of enduring suffering in a believer's life? 8. What historical context influenced Paul's message in 2 Corinthians 4:8? 9. How does 2 Corinthians 4:8 relate to the theme of resilience in Christian theology? 10. What are the top 10 Lessons from 2 Corinthians 4? 11. What does "Pressed but Not Crushed" mean biblically? 12. How should we respond to persecution for our faith? 13. What does the Bible say about perseverance? 14. Who was John Foxe and what did he write? What Does 2 Corinthians 4:8 Mean We are hard pressed on all sidesPaul admits that life and ministry feel like relentless pressure from every direction. His earlier words—“We were under a burden far beyond our ability to endure” (2 Corinthians 1:8)—prove this is no exaggeration. The pressure comes from: • Hostile cultures (Acts 14:19) • Spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:12) • Physical hardship and deprivation (2 Corinthians 11:23-27) Yet Psalm 34:19 reminds us, “Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him out of them all.” The squeeze is real, but it cannot define or defeat the believer. but not crushed Though the pressure is intense, it never flattens Paul’s faith. God’s sustaining presence sets a limit: “Because of the LORD’s loving devotion we are not consumed” (Lamentations 3:22). Practical reasons we are not crushed include: • God as refuge and strength (Psalm 46:1-2) • Christ’s promise of victory (John 16:33) • The Spirit’s inner renewal day by day (2 Corinthians 4:16) These truths create holy resilience; the vessel may crack, but the treasure inside (2 Corinthians 4:7) remains intact. perplexed Paul sometimes lacked answers, plans, or clarity. He felt the weight of unanswered questions just as the psalmist cried, “How long, O LORD?” (Psalm 13:1-2). Moments of confusion come when: • God’s timing seems delayed (John 11:21) • Suffering doesn’t make sense (Job 30:20) • Doors appear closed (Acts 16:6-7) Perplexity, however, is a temporary fog, not a permanent verdict. but not in despair Even when the way forward is unclear, hope never dies. Paul anchors his soul to God “who has delivered us and will deliver us again” (2 Corinthians 1:10). Hope flourishes because: • God’s past faithfulness fuels present confidence (Psalm 42:5) • The Spirit pours out love that keeps hope alive (Romans 5:5) • Future glory outweighs present pain (2 Corinthians 4:17) Therefore, though the mind is baffled, the heart refuses to quit. summary 2 Corinthians 4:8 paints a realistic yet triumphant portrait of Christian endurance. External pressures, inward questions, and situational fog are expected, but they never have the final word. God sets boundaries on every trial, sustains His children through every confusion, and infuses unquenchable hope. The verse calls believers to live honestly about hardship while confidently trusting the God who ensures they are pressed, but never crushed; perplexed, but never abandoned to despair. (8) We are troubled on every side.--The Greek presents all the clauses in a participial form, in apposition with the "we" with which 2Corinthians 4:7 opens. The careful antithesis in each case requires some modification of the English version in order to be at all adequately expressed. Hemmed-in in everything, yet not straitened for room perplexed, yet not baffled; or, as it has been rendered, less literally, but with great vividness, bewildered, but not benighted. The imagery in both clauses belongs to the life of the soldier on active service.Verse 8. - Troubled; afflicted, as in 2 Corinthians 1:4. On every side; in everything. Distressed; rather, driven to straits. Perplexed, but not in despair. In the original is a beautiful paronomasia, which might, perhaps, be represented in English by "pressed, but not oppressed." Literally the words mean, being at a loss, but not utterly at a loss. In the special anguish of trial of which he spoke in 2 Corinthians 1:8 (comp. 2 Corinthians 7:5), he was indeed for a time "utterly at a loss," reduced to utter despair; but in the normal conditions which he here describes he always, as it were, saw some outlet out of his worst perplexities.Parallel Commentaries ... Greek We are pressedθλιβόμενοι (thlibomenoi) Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Nominative Masculine Plural Strong's 2346: (a) I make narrow (strictly: by pressure); I press upon, (b) I persecute, press hard. Akin to the base of tribos; to crowd. on ἐν (en) Preposition Strong's 1722: In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. all [sides], παντὶ (panti) Adjective - Dative Neuter Singular Strong's 3956: All, the whole, every kind of. Including all the forms of declension; apparently a primary word; all, any, every, the whole. but ἀλλ’ (all’) Conjunction Strong's 235: But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. not οὐ (ou) Adverb Strong's 3756: No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not. crushed; στενοχωρούμενοι (stenochōroumenoi) Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Nominative Masculine Plural Strong's 4729: From the same as stenochoria; to hem in closely, i.e. cramp. perplexed, ἀπορούμενοι (aporoumenoi) Verb - Present Participle Middle - Nominative Masculine Plural Strong's 639: From a compound of a and the base of poreuomai; to have no way out, i.e. Be at a loss. but ἀλλ’ (all’) Conjunction Strong's 235: But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise. not οὐκ (ouk) Adverb Strong's 3756: No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not. in despair; ἐξαπορούμενοι (exaporoumenoi) Verb - Present Participle Middle or Passive - Nominative Masculine Plural Strong's 1820: To be utterly without resource, be in despair. Middle voice from ek and aporeo; to be utterly at a loss, i.e. Despond. Links 2 Corinthians 4:8 NIV2 Corinthians 4:8 NLT 2 Corinthians 4:8 ESV 2 Corinthians 4:8 NASB 2 Corinthians 4:8 KJV 2 Corinthians 4:8 BibleApps.com 2 Corinthians 4:8 Biblia Paralela 2 Corinthians 4:8 Chinese Bible 2 Corinthians 4:8 French Bible 2 Corinthians 4:8 Catholic Bible NT Letters: 2 Corinthians 4:8 We are pressed on every side yet (2 Cor. 2C iiC 2Cor ii cor iicor) |
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