2 Corinthians 5:9

9 So we aspire to please Him, whether we are at home in this body or away from it.

2 Corinthians 5:9 Meaning and Commentary

2 Corinthians 5:9

Wherefore we labour, that whether present or absent
This may be understood either of the ministers of the Gospel in particular, who labour in the word and doctrine, are ambitious, as the word here used signifies, and strive to preach the Gospel, not to please men, but their Lord and master; or of saints in general, who are intent upon this, and whose highest ambition is, that whether living or dying they

may be accepted of him;
both persons and services: such who are born again, who are believers in Christ, and truly love him, are earnestly desirous of doing those things which are pleasing to him; and do in the strength of Christ endeavour to perform them. Faith is a diligent, industrious, and operative grace, and makes persons like itself. As none ought to be, so none are more careful to perform good works, or more ambitious to excel others in them, and thereby please their Lord, than believers. And these are the only persons that can please him, for without faith it is impossible to please him; for these act from a principle of love to him, and with a view to his glory; and may they be but accepted of him, living and dying, both in this and the other world, they have the highest favour they can wish for and desire.

2 Corinthians 5:9 In-Context

7 For we walk by faith, not by sight.

8 We are confident, then, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.

9 So we aspire to please Him, whether we are at home in this body or away from it.

10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive his due for the things done in the body, whether good or bad.

11 Therefore, since we know what it means to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men. What we are is clear to God, and I hope it is clear to your conscience as well.