So translates a Greek word which indicates that verse 12 is the consequence of verse 11. Good News Translation captures this meaning with the words “This means that” (likewise Contemporary English Version). Others have rendered this transition word “then” (Moffatt) and “thus” (Revised English Bible), showing the logical connection.

Death is at work in us: Paul and his co-workers suffer and are in danger of dying or of being put to death. The Greek verb is at work may be translated as an active verb with death as the subject (so nearly all interpreters). This verb may, however, be passive in both form and meaning (as are the verbs in verses 10-11), so that the sense will be that the power of God (4.7) is at work bringing life and death. This is the interpretation behind the Anchor Bible translation: “death is made active [by the power of God] in us.” On the basis of grammar and context, either interpretation is possible. However, as already noted, most translations have chosen the active meaning of the verb rather than the passive. One African language has worded this verse as follows: “we have agreed to struggle with death so that you might find life.” Phillips provides another good model: “We are always facing physical death, [so that you may know spiritual life].”

Though the Greek does not make explicit the relationship of the two parts of this verse, the sense is that Paul and his co-workers suffer and risk death, with the result that the Corinthians have spiritual life (4.15). In view of this contrast between life and death, the conjunction but will be crucial in most languages. However, as indicated above, it may be possible to show the cause and effect relationship explicitly.

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellingworth, Paul. A Handbook on Paul’s Second Letter to the Corinthians. (UBS Handbook Series). New York: UBS, 1993. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .