2 Corinthians 13
This chapter concludes Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians with a final warning, a call for self-examination, and blessings. Paul is preparing for his third visit to Corinth and emphasizes the importance of repentance, strength in weakness, and the pursuit of truth and holiness. The chapter also contains Paul's hope that the Corinthians will correct their behaviors before his arrival, thereby sparing him the need to exercise church discipline.
2 Corinthians 13:1-2 (NKJV) This will be the third time I am coming to you. “By the mouth of two or three witnesses every word shall be established.” I have told you before, and foretell as if I were present the second time, and now being absent I write to those who have sinned before and to all the rest, that if I come again I will not spare—
Paul references the Deuteronomic law that requires the testimony of two or three witnesses to establish a matter, indicating his seriousness about addressing unresolved issues in Corinth. He warns that upon his return, he intends to deal decisively with those persisting in sin, emphasizing the need for accountability and repentance within the community.
2 Corinthians 13:3 (NKJV) Since you seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, who is not weak toward you, but mighty in you.
The Corinthians had challenged Paul's authority and apostolic legitimacy. Here, he asserts that the strength and effectiveness of his ministry among them are evidence of Christ working powerfully through him, countering any perceptions of his personal weakness or lack of authority.
2 Corinthians 13:4 (NKJV) For though He was crucified in weakness, yet He lives 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.
Paul draws a parallel between Christ’s crucifixion and his own ministry. Just as Christ was perceived as weak at His crucifixion but lives by God's power, Paul, though appearing weak, operates with divine strength in his service to the Corinthians, anticipating that his efforts will lead to spiritual vitality among them.
2 Corinthians 13:5-6 (NKJV) Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?—unless indeed you are disqualified. But I trust that you will know that we are not disqualified.
Paul urges the Corinthians to self-reflect to confirm their faithfulness and the presence of Christ within them, suggesting that genuine faith will be evident through their actions and attitudes. He expresses confidence that this self-examination will prove his own apostolic ministry among them is valid and effective.
2 Corinthians 13:7-8 (NKJV) Now I pray to God that you do no evil, not that we should appear approved, but that you should do what is honorable, though we may seem disqualified. For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.
Paul emphasizes his desire for the Corinthians' integrity and honorable behavior, not for his own vindication but for their spiritual welfare. He asserts the principle that his ministry is dedicated to the truth, unable to act contrary to it, highlighting his commitment to genuine, truthful teaching and living.
2 Corinthians 13:9-10 (NKJV) For we are glad when we are weak and you are strong. And this also we pray, that you may be made complete. Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the authority which the Lord has given me for edification and not for destruction.
Paul expresses joy at the Corinthians' spiritual strength and growth, even if it makes him appear weak. His ultimate prayer is for their restoration to full spiritual health. He explains his stern tone in the letter is to prevent having to be severe in person, using his apostolic authority constructively to build up rather than tear down.
2 Corinthians 13:11 (NKJV) Finally, brethren, farewell. Become complete. Be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.
Paul concludes with a series of exhortations: to aim for spiritual maturity ("become complete"), to encourage each other, to maintain harmony and peace within the community. He assures them that by living in this way, they will experience the presence of a God who is characterized by love and peace.
2 Corinthians 13:12 (NKJV) Greet one another with a holy kiss.
This instruction encourages a customary form of greeting among believers at the time, symbolizing mutual respect, unity, and the holy bond of fellowship within the church.
2 Corinthians 13:13 (NKJV) All the saints greet you.
Paul extends greetings from all the believers with him, emphasizing the solidarity and communal bonds that connect different parts of the church body, despite geographical and cultural distances.
2 Corinthians 13:14 (NKJV) The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen.
Paul concludes his letter with a blessing that invokes three distinct aspects of God's provision for the believers: the grace that is found in Jesus Christ, the love that emanates from God the Father, and the fellowship made possible by the Holy Spirit. This expression highlights the unique roles and manifestations of God's presence and work in the life of the believer, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of divine interaction and support in the Christian journey.