“But in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience, in afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,”
Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses — Paul's commendation (synistanō) is paradoxical: not by avoiding difficulty but by enduring it. Hypomone (perseverance) under thlipseis (afflictions) authenticates ministry. The trials become credential.
Church Fathers on 2 Corinthians 6:4
“But in every thing commending ourselves as ministers of God.” This is far greater. For it is not the same thing to be free from accusation; and to exhibit such a character as in everything to appear “ministers of God.” For neither is it the same thing to be quit of accusation, and to be covered with praises. And he said not appearing, but “commending,” that is 'proving.' Then he mentions also whence they became such. Whence then was it? “In much patience,” he says, laying…
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
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