2 Corinthians 6

In this chapter, Paul elaborates on his role as a minister of the Gospel, further defending his ministry and detailing the hardships he faces. He emphasizes the authentic, enduring character of his service in the face of various trials, showcasing how these challenges highlight the power and grace of God in his life. Paul also addresses the Corinthians about the nature of their relationship, urging them to remain pure and separate from worldly influences, reflecting the sanctity of their union with God.

2 Corinthians 6:1-2 (NKJV)
1 We then, as workers together with Him also plead with you not to receive the grace of God in vain.
2 For He says: “In an acceptable time I have heard you, and in the day of salvation I have helped you.” Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.

Paul implores the Corinthians not to squander the grace they have received, emphasizing the immediacy and urgency of the Gospel’s call to salvation. He quotes Isaiah 49:8 to underscore that the present moment holds the opportunity for salvation, urging an active, committed response to God’s offer of grace.

2 Corinthians 6:3-5 (NKJV)
3 We give no offense in anything, that our ministry may not be blamed.
4 But in all things we commend ourselves as ministers of God: in much patience, in tribulations, in needs, in distresses,
5 in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in sleeplessness, in fastings;

Paul lists the hardships he endures to demonstrate his dedication and integrity in ministry, ensuring that his actions do not discredit the Gospel. His resilience in the face of physical and emotional challenges serves as a testament to his commitment and the power of God sustaining him.

2 Corinthians 6:6-7 (NKJV)
6 by purity, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Spirit, by sincere love,
7 by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,

These verses showcase the virtues and spiritual resources that Paul relies on in his ministry. His conduct, characterized by ethical purity, deep spiritual insight, patience, and genuine love, reflects the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. He also emphasizes reliance on God’s truth and power, likening his spiritual defenses to armor, protecting and empowering him in all circumstances.

2 Corinthians 6:8-10 (NKJV)
8 through honor and dishonor, through evil report and good report; as deceivers, yet true;
9 as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and behold we live; as chastened, and not killed;
10 as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things.

Paul describes the paradoxical nature of his apostolic experience—misunderstood by some yet living out a profound truth, facing death yet sustained by life in Christ, and encountering sorrow yet always finding reasons for joy. His life, marked by material poverty, enriches others spiritually, illustrating the spiritual abundance that defines his ministry.

2 Corinthians 6:11-13 (NKJV)
11 O Corinthians! Our mouth is open to you, our heart is enlarged.
12 You are not restricted by us, but you are restricted by your own affections.
13 Now in return for the same (I speak as to children), you also be open.

Paul expresses deep affection and openness toward the Corinthians, indicating that any perceived distance or restraint in their relationship is not from his side but due to their own limited affections. He appeals for a reciprocal openness and affection from them, fostering a deeper mutual understanding and closeness.

2 Corinthians 6:14-16 (NKJV)
14 Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness?
15 And what accord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever?
16 And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will dwell in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they shall be My people.”

Paul warns believers against being "unequally yoked" with unbelievers, using the metaphor of a yoke to illustrate the spiritual imbalance that occurs when a believer forms close, binding relationships—such as in marriage, business, or spiritual partnerships—with someone who does not share the same faith or values. A yoke is a wooden frame used to bind two animals together to pull a load or plow a field, and for the work to be effective, the animals must be of the same kind, strength, and purpose. If mismatched—such as an ox and a donkey—the stronger animal may drag the weaker one, causing pain, inefficiency, and chaos. Paul uses this imagery to show that believers and unbelievers are fundamentally misaligned in their goals, values, and spiritual direction, making close partnerships harmful to the believer’s walk with God.

Paul highlights the contrasts between righteousness and lawlessness, light and darkness, Christ and Belial (a term for evil), and the temple of God and idols. These stark contrasts illustrate that believers, as God’s temple, are called to reflect His holiness and avoid alliances that could compromise their faith and pull them away from Him. This call to separation is not about isolating from the world but about maintaining loyalty to God’s covenant, remaining distinct in character, purpose, and allegiance, while still being a witness to those who need to experience God's saving grace.

2 Corinthians 6:17-18 (NKJV)
17 Therefore “Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you.”
18 “I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.”

Paul calls believers to separate themselves from anything that defiles their relationship with God, quoting God's command: “Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you” (Isaiah 52:11). This separation does not mean avoiding all contact with unbelievers, as Jesus Himself ministered to sinners with love and compassion. Instead, Paul is warning against being unequally yoked with unbelievers in ways that compromise faith or lead to moral compromise. Believers are called to live distinct, holy lives, reflecting God's character while still sharing His love and truth with the world. God’s promise to “be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters” (2 Samuel 7:14) assures believers of His close relationship and care, motivating them to be faithful in their witness and personal walk with Him. Just as Jesus ministered to the lost without being influenced by sin, believers are to engage with the world in a way that draws others to Christ while remaining spiritually separate from practices that dishonor God.