2 Corinthians 5:9 – “So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it.”

Extended Explanation

Paul is making it clear that the primary aim of a believer’s life is to please God. Whether a Christian is alive in their physical body or has passed into eternity, their purpose remains the same—living in a way that honors and pleases the Lord.

This verse connects to the previous discussion in 2 Corinthians 5 about life being temporary and eternity being our ultimate home. While waiting for that future, believers are called to live with purpose. Paul doesn’t say that pleasing God is just a suggestion; he calls it a goal—something that requires intention, effort, and commitment.

The phrase “whether we are at home in the body or away from it” shows that Paul is thinking about both life and death. While Christians live on earth, they should strive to please God. When they enter eternity, they will continue to glorify Him. The goal of life doesn’t change after death—it is always about pleasing the Lord.

Historical Context

Paul wrote this letter to the church in Corinth, a city full of distractions—worldly pleasures, wealth, and status. Many people lived only for their personal success and enjoyment. In contrast, Paul teaches that a Christian’s purpose is not self-centered but God-centered.

At this time, the early Christians were facing persecution and hardships. Some may have been discouraged, wondering if their struggles were worth it. Paul encourages them by reminding them that their mission is clear—no matter what happens, their focus should always be on living in a way that pleases God.

Paul himself lived this way. He endured suffering, imprisonment, and rejection, but his commitment to honoring God never wavered. His words carry weight because he was living out this truth firsthand.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches several key biblical truths:

• The purpose of life is to please God – Everything a believer does should be centered around honoring Him.
• Eternal life does not change our goal – Whether on earth or in heaven, the focus remains on bringing glory to God.
• Faithful living is intentional – Pleasing God is not something that happens by accident; it requires daily choices and commitment.
• Life on earth has meaning – Even though eternity is coming, what we do here still matters to God.

This verse challenges Christians to evaluate their priorities. Are they living for themselves, or are they seeking to please God in all they do?

Literary Analysis

Paul’s wording in this verse is very deliberate and strong:

• “We make it our goal” – This is not passive language. Paul is saying that pleasing God requires effort and focus. It’s not something that happens automatically.
• “Whether we are at home in the body or away from it” – This phrase connects to previous verses, where Paul talks about life and eternity. The goal of pleasing God is not limited to our time on earth—it is an eternal mission.
• “To please Him” – The Greek word used here means to be well-pleasing or acceptable in God’s sight. It suggests actively seeking to do what brings God joy.

Paul is not suggesting a life of legalism or trying to earn God’s approval. Instead, he is talking about a heart posture—a life that is motivated by love and gratitude toward God.

Biblical Cross-References

• Romans 12:1 – “Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”
• Colossians 1:10 – “So that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God.”
• Hebrews 11:6 – “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.”
• 1 Thessalonians 4:1 – “We instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more.”

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse gives clear direction for how a Christian should live. It reminds believers that life is not about pursuing personal success, comfort, or recognition—it is about honoring God in everything.

In today’s world, many people live for themselves—for their careers, their happiness, or their achievements. This verse reminds Christians that they are called to a higher purpose. Their decisions, priorities, and actions should all be aimed at pleasing God.

It also means that pleasing God is not just for Sundays. It applies to everyday life—work, relationships, habits, and even small decisions. A Christian should ask:

• “Does this choice honor God?”
• “Is my attitude pleasing to Him?”
• “Am I living for His glory or my own?”

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

This verse shows that God is deeply involved in the lives of His people. He cares about how they live and gives them a clear purpose. He is not distant or uninterested—He is actively guiding and shaping His children.

A loving parent delights in their child’s growth and development. In the same way, God delights in the obedience and faithfulness of His people. He does not set rules just to control them but because He knows that a life lived for Him is the most fulfilling and meaningful life possible.

This verse also reassures believers that God is worth pleasing. He is not a cruel master but a loving Father who desires what is best for His children.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the perfect example of someone who lived to please God.

• John 8:29 – Jesus said, “The one who sent me is with me; he has not left me alone, for I always do what pleases him.”
• John 4:34 – “My food,” said Jesus, “is to do the will of him who sent me and to finish his work.”
• Matthew 3:17 – At Jesus’ baptism, God said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”

Jesus lived every moment to honor His Father. He didn’t seek His own will, but always did what pleased God. Because of His perfect obedience, He became the sacrifice that made salvation possible for all who trust in Him.

For Christians, following Jesus means adopting the same mindset—seeking to please God above all else.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does it mean for you to “make it your goal” to please God?
2. How does this verse challenge the way you live your daily life?
3. What are some practical ways you can seek to please God in your work, relationships, and personal habits?
4. How does Jesus’ example of living to please the Father inspire you?
5. Are there areas in your life where you are more focused on pleasing yourself or others instead of pleasing God?

This verse is a powerful reminder that life is not about chasing after worldly success or personal comfort. The greatest purpose of life is to please God—to live in a way that honors Him, both now and for eternity.