2 Corinthians 13

¹ This [is] the third [time] I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established.

² I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second time; and being absent now I write to them which heretofore have sinned, and to all other, that, if I come again, I will not spare:

³ Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is mighty in you.

⁴ For though he was crucified through weakness, yet he liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but we shall live with him by the power of God toward you.

⁵ Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?

⁶ But I trust that ye shall know that we are not reprobates.

⁷ Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appear approved, but that ye should do that which is honest, though we be as reprobates.

⁸ For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.

⁹ For we are glad, when we are weak, and ye are strong: and this also we wish, [even] your perfection.

¹⁰ Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the power which the Lord hath given me to edification, and not to destruction.

¹¹ Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.

¹² Greet one another with an holy kiss.

¹³ All the saints salute you.

¹⁴ The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, [be] with you all. Amen.

Table of Contents

Overview of 2 Corinthians Chapter 13

2 Corinthians Chapter 13 serves as the concluding chapter of Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians. In this chapter, Paul addresses issues of authority, discipline, and the importance of self-examination among the believers in Corinth. The chapter is characterized by a tone of authority and urgency, as Paul prepares to visit the church for the third time.

Key Themes

Authority and Apostolic Power: Paul emphasizes his authority as an apostle and the power given to him by Christ.
Self-Examination: The chapter encourages believers to examine themselves to ensure they are living in faith.
Discipline and Restoration: Paul discusses the need for discipline within the church and the hope for restoration.
Unity and Encouragement: He calls for unity among the believers and encourages them to support one another.

Verse-by-Verse Analysis

Verse 1: Paul states that he will come to them for the third time, emphasizing the seriousness of his visit and the need for accountability.
Verse 2: He warns that he will not spare those who have sinned and have not repented, indicating the importance of addressing sin within the church.
Verse 3: Paul asserts that Christ speaks through him, reinforcing his authority and the divine backing of his message.
Verse 4: He reminds them of Christ’s humility and weakness in appearance but emphasizes His power in resurrection.
Verse 5: Paul calls for self-examination, urging the Corinthians to test their faith and ensure they are in Christ.
Verse 6: He expresses confidence that they will find that he and his ministry are genuine.
Verse 7: Paul prays that they do no wrong and that his authority is not used to condemn but to build up the church.
Verse 8: He states that he cannot do anything against the truth, highlighting his commitment to the gospel.
Verse 9: Paul expresses joy in the Corinthians’ strength and restoration, indicating his pastoral concern.
Verse 10: He mentions the authority given to him for building up the church rather than tearing it down.
Verses 11-12: Paul concludes with exhortations for the church to be complete, encourage one another, and greet one another with a holy kiss, emphasizing unity and love.
Verse 13: He sends greetings from the saints, reinforcing the community aspect of the faith.
Verse 14: The chapter concludes with a blessing of grace, love, and fellowship, encapsulating the essence of Christian community.

Theological Implications

Authority in the Church: The chapter highlights the role of apostolic authority in maintaining order and discipline within the church.
Importance of Self-Examination: It stresses the necessity for believers to reflect on their faith and conduct regularly.
Grace and Restoration: The theme of grace is prevalent, showing that discipline is not merely punitive but aimed at restoration.
Community and Fellowship: The emphasis on unity and mutual support illustrates the importance of community in the Christian faith.

Conclusion

2 Corinthians Chapter 13 encapsulates Paul’s pastoral heart, his authority as an apostle, and the importance of integrity within the Christian community. It serves as a reminder of the balance between discipline and grace, urging believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling while fostering unity and love among one another.

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Andrew

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