Bible Verse Meaning and Commentary on 2 Corinthians 4:3

Verse: "But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost."

Overall Context and Significance

The Apostle Paul, in this letter to the Corinthians, emphasizes the significance of the gospel and the inherent challenges faced in spreading its message. This specific verse highlights the concept that the gospel's obscurity is not due to a lack of clarity in the message itself but rather a spiritual blindness among those who do not believe.

Interpretations from Commentaries

• Matthew Henry's Commentary:

  Henry discusses the spiritual nature of the gospel's concealment, tying it to the condition of the lost. He explains that those who are perishing cannot appreciate the truth of the gospel. The veil that lies over their hearts blinds them to the light and glory of Christ’s message, demonstrating the need for divine illumination.

• Albert Barnes' Notes:

  Barnes elaborates on the idea that if the gospel remains hidden to some, it emphasizes the gravity of their lost state. He highlights that this lack of understanding is not merely ignorance or misunderstanding but a deeper moral condition caused by sin. Those who do not want to see the light of the gospel are, in effect, lost to its saving power.

• Adam Clarke's Commentary:

  Clarke provides insights into the implications of the gospel being hid, particularly focusing on the evidence of its transformative power in the lives of believers. He points out that the fault lies with those who refuse to understand or believe, illustrating the difference between those who have accepted the gospel and those who have not.

Spiritual Blindness and the Lost

• Understanding Spiritual Blindness:

  This verse speaks to the reality of spiritual blindness, which affects those who are described as "lost." Such individuals are detached from God's truth and the transformative power of the gospel. Their inability to see and understand is a reflection of their spiritual state.

• The Role of the Gospel:

  The gospel is intended to be a revelation of grace and truth; however, when it is hid, it poses a dire situation for those who do not accept its message. This emphasizes the urgency for believers to proclaim the gospel actively.

Application of 2 Corinthians 4:3

This verse encourages believers to engage with non-believers compassionately, recognizing their spiritual blindness. It calls for prayer and efforts toward evangelism, focusing on the necessity of the Holy Spirit's work in opening eyes and hearts.

Cross References

• Isaiah 6:10: "Make the heart of this people fat, and make their ears heavy, and shut their eyes..."
• John 12:40: "He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart..."
• 2 Corinthians 3:14: "But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same veil..."
• Ephesians 4:18: "Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God..."
• 1 John 2:11: "But he that hateth his brother is in darkness, and walketh in darkness..."

Conclusion

2 Corinthians 4:3 exemplifies profound truths about the obscured nature of the gospel among the unsaved. It presents an essential aspect of Bible verse meanings, interpretations, and understanding by illustrating both the problem of spiritual blindness and the need for a responsive heart to the gospel's message. This commentary sheds light on a critical aspect of faith, urging believers to understand the importance of proclaiming the gospel and the essential role of divine intervention in revealing truth to the lost.