In 2 Corinthians 13, Paul delivers a final warning, underscored by his impending visit, challenging the Corinthians to examine their faith and readiness. He references the principle of establishing truth by the testimony of two or three witnesses, an echo of the Judaic legal tradition, to emphasize the seriousness of his concerns. As the apostle closes the letter, he moves from reprimand to reconciliation, urging unity, love, and peace among the believers while extending the grace and love of the Lord Jesus Christ to them.
1. Paul's Third Visit and the Call for Proof (v1-6)
a. Paul references the principle of evidence from two or three witnesses (v1).
b. Warning against sin and a call to repentance (v2-3).
c. Christ's power and Paul's own vulnerability (v4).
d. Exhortation for self-examination and proving one's faith (v5-6).
2. Paul's Prayer and Desire for the Corinthians (v7-9)
a. Paul's prayer for their perfection (v7).
b. Acknowledgment of his powerlessness against the truth, but its use for their edification (v8-9).
3. Authority and Love (v10-14)
a. Paul's authority and its purpose for building up (v10).
b. Final exhortations: rejoice, mend, be of one mind, live in peace (v11).
c. Greetings and expressions of love (v12-13).
d. Benediction of the Trinity's grace, love, and fellowship (v14).
Historical Context for 2 Corinthians 13:
The backdrop of 2 Corinthians as a whole is the complex and sometimes strained relationship between the Apostle Paul and the church in Corinth. Paul had already made two visits to Corinth and was preparing for a third. The "painful visit" (2 Cor. 2:1) and the "severe letter" (2 Cor. 7:8-12) previously mentioned indicate that there had been tension and confrontation. Paul’s apostolic authority was being challenged by some in the church, and this is a consistent theme in both 1 and 2 Corinthians.
Chapter 13 serves as the climax to the letter, with Paul giving a final warning to the Corinthians. He was planning to visit them again and was prepared to take stern action against those persisting in sin. The historical circumstances suggest that there were certain individuals or groups in Corinth that opposed Paul and possibly questioned the authenticity of his apostolic ministry. These individuals may have been swayed by or even included the so-called "super-apostles" who boasted about their credentials (2 Cor. 11:13-15). The presence of these opponents may have stirred doubt and discord within the Corinthian community.
Themes in 2 Corinthians 13:
Apostolic Authority: Paul reaffirms his apostolic authority, not for personal pride but for the edification of the Corinthians. He warns that he will not spare those who have sinned upon his third visit (v2). Paul's readiness to exercise his authority is grounded in his pastoral care and genuine concern for the church.
Self-examination: Paul challenges the Corinthians to test and examine themselves to see if they are truly in the faith (v5). This theme underscores the seriousness with which believers should consider their walk with Christ.
Weakness and Power: Echoing sentiments from earlier in the letter (12:9-10), Paul speaks of Christ being crucified in weakness but living by God's power. Likewise, the apostle acknowledges his own weakness but assures that he and the Corinthians will live with Christ by God's power (v4).
Prayer for Restoration: Paul's ultimate desire isn't to tear down the Corinthians but to build them up (v9-10). Despite the stern warnings, Paul's heart is for the Corinthians to be complete and mature in their faith.
Unity and Peace: The chapter (and the letter) ends with exhortations to unity, peace, mutual affection, and the experience of God's love and peace (v11-14). Paul's final words underscore his deep pastoral affection for the Corinthians, as well as his desire for their spiritual well-being.
A(13:1-2) 13:1 "This will be the third time I am coming to you. 'By the mouth of two or three witnesses every word shall be established.'" (13:1)
B(13:3-4) 13:3 "Since you seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, ... Christ was crucified in weakness, yet He lives by the power of God." (13:3-4)
C(13:5) 13:5 "Examine yourselves as to whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not know yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you?" (13:5)
B'(13:6-10) 13:9 "For we are glad when we are weak and you are strong. And this also we pray, that you may be made complete." (13:9)
A'(13:11-14) 13:11 "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." (13:11)
A. Paul's Third Visit & Benediction: Paul's forewarning about his forthcoming third visit converges with his closing wishes for peace, unity, and divine favor.
B. Weakness, Power, & Restoration: A thematic intersection of human frailty contrasted with Christ's strength, alongside an earnest desire for the Corinthians' spiritual growth.
C. Introspection & Spiritual Responsibility: Paul underscores the importance of self-examination, accentuating the personal accountability in one's spiritual journey.
2 Cor 13:1 - KJV Word: "mouth" | Greek Word: "στόμα" (stoma). In the KJV, "In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established." The term "mouth" here signifies "testimony" or "declaration." It's an idiomatic expression suggesting that a matter is confirmed based on the testimony of multiple witnesses.
2 Cor 13:5 - KJV Word: "reprobates" | Greek Word: "ἀδόκιμος" (adokimos). While "reprobates" in modern English can carry a strong negative connotation, the Greek "adokimos" can be understood as "not standing the test" or "not approved." In this context, it signifies those not genuine in their faith.
2 Cor 13:11 - KJV Word: "perfect" | Greek Word: "καταρτίζω" (katartizo). The term "perfect" in the KJV could be misunderstood as being without flaw. However, "katartizo" means to "restore," "mend," or "equip." Paul is urging the Corinthians toward spiritual maturity and unity.