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2Co_4:8-10. A proof, based on experience, how this abundant power makes itself known as the power of God in the sufferings of the apostolic calling; so that, in spite of the earthen vessels, 2Co_4:7, the apostolic working advances steadily and successfull.
ἐν παντί ] having reference to all the first clauses of 2Co_4:8-9, is neither to be supplemented by loco (Beza, Rosenmüller), nor is it: in all that I do (Hofmann), but is to be left general: in every way. Comp. 2Co_7:5; 1Co_1:5; and see on 2Co_11:6. Comp. the classic ἐν παντὶ κακοῦ εἶναι , Plat. Rep. p. 579 B; εἰς πᾶν κακοῦ ἀφικνεῖσθαι , Herod. viii. 118, and the lik.
θλιβόμενοι κ . τ . λ .] hard pressed, but not becoming driven into straits. Matters do not come so far as that, in virtue of the abundance of the power of God! Kypke rightly says: “ στενοχωρία angustias hoc loco denotat tales, e quibus non detur exitus.” For see 2Co_6:4, 2Co_12:10. Comp. Bengel. The reference of στενοχ . to inward oppression and anxiety (Erasmus, Luther, and many others) anticipates what follow.
ἀπορούμενοι κ . τ . λ .] being brought into doubt (perplexity, where we cannot help ourselves), but not into despair. Comp. 2Co_1:8.[197]
[197] There is no contradiction between this passage and 2Co_1:8, where an actual ἐξαπορεῖσθαι is affirmed only of a single case, and in a definite relation. Here, however, the mental attitude as a whole is portrayed in single, grand strokes.