2 Corinthians 6
In this chapter, Paul continues to defend his ministry and the authenticity of his apostolic calling, urging the Corinthians to accept the grace of God and not to receive it in vain. He describes the hardships and virtues that characterize true apostolic service, calling for the separation from worldly influences and exhorting the believers to live as temples of the living God.
2 Corinthians 6:1-3 (NKJV)
We then, as workers together with Him also plead with you not to receive the grace of God in vain. 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. We give no offense in anything, that our ministry may not be blamed.
Paul emphasizes the urgency of accepting God's grace today, as he quotes from Isaiah 49:8, reminding the Corinthians that the "now" is the right time for salvation. He also stresses the integrity and blamelessness of his ministry, ensuring that nothing hinders the gospel's acceptance.
2 Corinthians 6:4-5 (NKJV)
But in all things we commend ourselves as ministers of God: in much patience, in tribulations, in needs, in distresses, in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in sleeplessness, in fastings;
Paul lists the hardships he and his fellow workers endure, demonstrating their dedication and the authenticity of their ministry. These trials serve as a testament to their perseverance and commitment to serving God despite significant challenges.
2 Corinthians 6:6-7 (NKJV)
by purity, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Spirit, by sincere love, by the word of truth, by the power of God, by the armor of righteousness on the right hand and on the left,
Contrasting the difficulties, Paul enumerates the virtues that define their ministry. These include purity, knowledge, and patience, which are borne out of their deep relationship with the Holy Spirit and commitment to the truth and moral integrity.
2 Corinthians 6:8-10 (NKJV)
by honor and dishonor, by evil report and good report; as deceivers, and yet true; as unknown, and yet well known; as dying, and behold we live; as chastened, and yet not killed; 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 the apostolic experience—misunderstood by the world yet living in the truth, appearing poor yet enriching many spiritually. These contrasts highlight the spiritual victories and resilience of the apostles amidst worldly trials.
2 Corinthians 6:11-13 (NKJV)
O Corinthians! We have spoken openly to you, our heart is wide open. You are not restricted by us, but you are restricted by your own affections. Now in return for the same (I speak as to children), you also be open.
Paul expresses his affectionate concern for the Corinthians, noting that any limitation they feel is not from his ministry but from their own limitations. He appeals for mutual openness and affection, likening his tone to that of a parent speaking to children.
2 Corinthians 6:14-16 (NKJV)
Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness? And what accord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever? 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 against forming binding relationships with unbelievers, using metaphors of light and darkness, Christ and Belial, to emphasize the incompatibility between Christian and pagan lifestyles. He reminds them of their identity as God's temple, encouraging them to live in holiness.
2 Corinthians 6:17-18 (NKJV)
Therefore “Come out from among them And be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, And I will receive you. I will be a Father to you, And you shall be My sons and daughters, Says the Lord Almighty.”
Quoting from the Old Testament, Paul calls for a separation from pagan practices and impurities. This separation is the basis for a deeper relationship with God, who promises to be a father to them, thus elevating their identity as His children.