What point in time does "henceforth" in 2 Corinthians 5:16 go back to?
The word "henceforth" in 2 Corinthians 5:16 points back to Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. It does not go back to John the Baptist or Christ's earthly ministry. From that point onward, God's plan of salvation for Gentiles kicks into gear.
Les explains that "henceforth" means from that point on. It is not a return to John the Baptist or to Christ's earthly ministry; it goes back to His death, burial, and resurrection. Les says that is where things really kick in gear for us Gentiles. He stresses that once the death, burial, and resurrection has been revealed to us Gentiles as God's plan of salvation, that is where we have to start. He then turns to John's Gospel chapter 12, where certain Greeks, Gentiles, came to worship; he cautions against labeling them proselytes and views them as curious bystanders.
Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more.
More Questions
What does 'henceforth' mean in 2 Corinthians 5?
In this passage, 'henceforth' means 'from that time forward' or 'from that point on.'
Why does Paul say 'wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh' in 2 Corinthians 5:16?
Paul's 'wherefore' in verse 16 points back to the work of the cross—Christ's death, burial, and resurrection—as the reason we henceforth know no man after the flesh.