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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 2 Corinthians 13:7–10. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here we have,
I.The apostle's prayer to God on the behalf of the Corinthians, that they might do no evil, Co2 13:7.
This is the most desirable thing we can ask of God, both for ourselves and for our friends, to be kept from sin, that we and they may do no evil; and it is most needful that we often pray to God for his grace to keep us, because without this we cannot keep ourselves. We are more concerned to pray that we may not do evil than that we may not suffer evil.
II.The reasons why the apostle put up this prayer to God on behalf of the Corinthians, which reasons have a special reference to their case, and the subject-matter about which he was writing to them. Observe, he tells them,
1.It was not so much for his own personal reputation as for the honour of religion: "Not that we should appear approved, but that you should do that which is honest, or decent, and for the credit of religion, though we should be reproached and vilified, and accounted as reprobates," Co2 13:7. Note,
(1.)The great desire of faithful ministers of the gospel is that the gospel they preach may be honoured, however their persons may be vilified.
(2.)The best way to adorn our holy religion is to do that which is honest, and of good report, to walk as becomes the gospel of Christ.
2.Another reason was this: that they might be free from all blame and censure when he should come to them. This is intimated in Co2 13:8, We can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth. If therefore they did not do evil, nor act contrary to their profession of the gospel, the apostle had no power nor authority to punish them. He had said before (Co2 10:8) and says here (Co2 13:10) that the power which the Lord had given him was to edification, not to destruction; so that, although the apostle had great powers committed to him for the credit and advancement of the gospel, yet he could not do anything to the disparagement of the truth, nor the discouragement of those who obeyed it. He could not, that is, he would not, he dared not, he had no commission to act against the truth; and it is remarkable how the apostle did rejoice in this blessed impotency: "We are glad," says he (Co2 13:9), "when we are weak and you are strong; that is, that we have no power to censure those who are strong in faith and fruitful in good works." Some understand this passage thus: "Though we are weak through persecutions and contempt, we bear it patiently, and also joyfully, while we see that you are strong, that you are prosperous in holiness, and persevering in well-doing." For,
3.He desired their perfection (Co2 13:9); that is, that they might be sincere, and aim at perfection (sincerity is our gospel-perfection), or else he wished there might be a thorough reformation among them. He not only desired that they might be kept from sin, but also that they might grow in grace, and increase in holiness, and that all that was amiss among them might be rectified and reformed. This was the great end of his writing this epistle, and that freedom he used with them by writing these things (those friendly admonitions and warnings), being absent, that so, being present, he should not use sharpness (Co2 13:10), that is, not proceed to the utmost extremity in the exercise of the power which the Lord had given him as an apostle, to revenge all disobedience, Co2 10:6.
Historical interpretation
Two Centuries of Reception
4 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
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Is he then the same God as He who gave Satan power over the person of Job that his "strength might be made perfect in weakness? " How is it that the censurer of the Galatians still retains the very formula of the law: "In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established? " How again is it that he threatens sinners "that he will not spare" them -he, the preacher of a most gentle god? Yea, he even declares that "the Lord hath given to him the power of using sharpness in their presence!" Deny now, O heretic, (at your cost, ) that your god is an object to be feared, when his apostle was for making himself so formidable!
Again even in this his apology he makes what he says more terrible, showing that it is not himself who is to punish, but God; for he added, "according to the authority which the Lord gave me;" and again, to show that he desires not to use his power to their punishment, he added, "not for casting down, but for building up." And he hinted indeed this now, as I said, but he left it to them to draw the conclusion that if they should continue unamended, even this again is building up, to punish those that are of such a mind. For so it is, and he knew it and showed it by his deeds.
He was sensible he had spoken more vehemently than his wont, and especially towards the end of the Epistle. Since then he had said these things and more besides, terrifying, shaming, reproaching, lashing them, he says, in excuse for all, "For this cause I write these things while absent, that I may not when present deal sharply." For I am desirous the sharpness should lie in my letters and not in my deeds. I wish my threats to be vehement, that they may continue threats and never go forth into action.
Paul shows that chastisement is a form of edification. If one or two are punished, the entire fellowship learns the lesson.
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Summary
In 2 Corinthians 13:10, the Apostle Paul articulates his pastoral strategy: he writes sternly while absent from Corinth to preempt the need for severe disciplinary action upon his arrival. He clarifies that the apostolic authority bestowed upon him by the Lord is fundamentally intended for the spiritual growth and strengthening of the Corinthian believers (edification), not for their demolition or ruin (destruction). This verse encapsulates Paul's blend of firm correction and profound pastoral love, aiming for repentance and restoration within the church.
Context
Literary Context
This verse stands as a climactic statement at the conclusion of Paul's Second Epistle to the Corinthians, a letter characterized by a complex interplay of deep affection, defense of his apostleship, and urgent calls for repentance. Chapters 10-13, often referred to as the "painful letter" or "severe letter," directly address the challenges to Paul's authority and the persistent moral and spiritual issues within the Corinthian church. Paul had previously warned them of his impending third visit and his resolve not to spare those who remained unrepentant (2 Corinthians 12:21). Therefore, writing "these things being absent" serves as a final, merciful opportunity for the Corinthians to self-correct, thus making the exercise of "sharpness" unnecessary when he is physically present. This written warning is an act of preventative discipline, designed to foster repentance before a more direct confrontation is required.
Historical & Cultural Context
The Corinthian church was a vibrant but deeply troubled community situated in a major Roman port city known for its diverse population, wealth, and moral laxity. This environment often infiltrated the church, leading to divisions, immorality, and a questioning of spiritual authority. Paul, as their spiritual father and founder of the church, faced significant opposition from certain factions and "super-apostles" who challenged his legitimacy, methods, and even his personal character. His authority, rooted in his direct commission from Christ, was under scrutiny. In this context, Paul's assertion of his God-given "power" for "edification" directly counters the worldly understanding of power as dominance or destruction, aligning it instead with the transformative, redemptive purposes of God's kingdom.
Key Themes
The verse powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes prevalent in 2 Corinthians and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it highlights the Purpose of Apostolic Authority, emphasizing that divine power is not for personal aggrandizement or arbitrary control, but for the spiritual maturation and strengthening of the body of Christ. This is consistent with Paul's understanding of ministry as service, as seen in his discussion of his weakness being a conduit for God's strength (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). Secondly, the stark contrast between "edification" and "destruction" underscores the theme of Constructive Discipline. Even when correction is severe, its ultimate aim is restorative, aiming to build up rather than tear down, fostering spiritual health and unity within the community. This aligns with the broader New Testament emphasis on church discipline as a means of restoration, not expulsion, for the unrepentant (Matthew 18:15-17). Finally, Paul's desire to avoid "sharpness" reveals his profound Pastoral Love and Mercy, demonstrating that his warnings stem from a heart committed to the Corinthians' well-being, preferring their proactive repentance over the necessity of punitive action. This echoes his earlier expressions of deep affection and concern for them throughout the letter, such as his joy over their repentance in 2 Corinthians 7:8-11.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This primary verb means "to grave" or "to write," often figuratively "to describe." Here, it refers to Paul's act of composing this letter, particularly the stern warnings and instructions contained within it. His writing is a deliberate, authoritative act, serving as a proxy for his physical presence and a means to communicate his apostolic will.
An adverb meaning "abruptly" or "peremptorily," derived from a word implying "to cut." It denotes severity, harshness, or a decisive, unsparing manner of dealing with issues. Paul wishes to avoid acting with such severity, which would be necessitated by continued unrepentance.
This term signifies "privilege," "force," "capacity," "competency," "freedom," or "mastery." Crucially, it also refers to "delegated influence" or "authority." Paul's "power" is not inherent but is a divine endowment, a legitimate authority given by the Lord for specific purposes within the church.
A feminine abstract noun derived from "house" and "to build." It means "architecture," "a structure," or figuratively, "confirmation" and "building up." In Paul's theology, it consistently refers to the spiritual growth, strengthening, and healthy development of individual believers and the church as a corporate body, akin to a spiritual building.
Derived from a verb meaning "to take down" or "to demolish." It means "demolition" or, figuratively, "extinction" or "pulling down." This word stands in direct antithesis to "edification," highlighting that true spiritual authority, unlike worldly power, never aims to dismantle, ruin, or annihilate.
Verse Breakdown
"Therefore I write these things being absent,"
Paul connects his current act of writing (the letter, particularly the preceding warnings and challenges) to his physical absence from Corinth. His written communication serves as a preventative measure, a final opportunity for the Corinthians to respond before his physical arrival. This demonstrates his pastoral care, giving them space for self-correction.
"lest being present I should use sharpness,"
This clause reveals Paul's primary motivation for writing. He desires to avoid having to employ severe, abrupt, or harsh discipline when he is physically with them. The "sharpness" implies a direct, unsparing confrontation with unrepentant sin, which would be a painful experience for all involved.
"according to the power which the Lord hath given me to edification, and not to destruction."
This crucial part clarifies the nature and purpose of Paul's apostolic authority. His "power" (exousía) is not self-derived but divinely bestowed ("which the Lord hath given me"). The ultimate aim of this authority is "to edification" (oikodomḗ), meaning to build up, strengthen, and promote the spiritual growth of the believers and the church. It is emphatically "not to destruction" (kathaíresis), meaning it is never intended to tear down, demolish, or ruin. Even when exercised in correction, its underlying goal is always restorative and constructive.
Literary Devices
Paul employs a powerful use of Antithesis in this verse, juxtaposing "edification" (οἰκοδομή) with "destruction" (καθαίρεσις). This stark contrast highlights the fundamental nature and purpose of true spiritual authority. While worldly power often seeks to dominate and dismantle, Paul asserts that his God-given authority is inherently constructive, aiming to build up the church, not tear it down. Even the "sharpness" he might employ is ultimately for the sake of this edification, rather than for punitive ruin. This rhetorical device effectively clarifies his pastoral heart and the divine mandate of his ministry. Additionally, there is an element of Irony in Paul's statement: he writes a "sharp" letter from a distance precisely to avoid having to be "sharp" in person. His absence in writing is a loving act designed to prevent a more painful confrontation in his presence, underscoring his deep care despite the severity of his words.
Theological and Thematic Connections
This verse profoundly shapes our understanding of spiritual authority and discipline within the church. It teaches that all God-given power, whether apostolic, pastoral, or within any leadership role, is fundamentally a stewardship for the benefit and spiritual growth of God's people. Its ultimate aim is always to build up, to strengthen, and to restore, never to tear down or destroy. Even when correction is necessary, it must be administered with a heart that seeks the edification of the individual and the community, reflecting God's own desire for repentance and life rather than judgment and death. This principle ensures that church discipline, though sometimes painful, remains a loving act designed to bring about spiritual health and conformity to Christ.
Reflection and Application
Paul's words in 2 Corinthians 13:10 offer a timeless blueprint for leadership, particularly within the Christian community. They challenge us to examine the motivations and methods behind any exercise of authority. True spiritual power is not about control or personal gain, but about humble service and the nurturing of others' spiritual well-being. This means that even when difficult conversations or disciplinary actions are required, the underlying intention must always be restorative—to build up, to heal, and to guide towards maturity in Christ, rather than to shame, condemn, or dismantle. For individual believers, this verse encourages proactive self-examination and repentance, recognizing that addressing sin personally can avert more severe consequences. It calls us to embrace correction, whether from Scripture or from wise counsel, as a means of grace for our spiritual growth.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does Paul mean by "sharpness" and why does he want to avoid using it?
By "sharpness" (Greek: apotómōs), Paul refers to a severe, abrupt, or uncompromising exercise of his apostolic authority, likely involving direct disciplinary action against unrepentant individuals or factions within the Corinthian church. He wants to avoid using it because such a confrontation would be painful for both him and the Corinthians. His preference is for them to repent and correct their behavior themselves in his absence, demonstrating his pastoral love and desire for their spiritual health rather than a punitive display of power. His goal is always restoration, not ruin.
How does this verse relate to the concept of church discipline?
This verse is foundational to understanding the New Testament's approach to church discipline. It establishes that the ultimate purpose of discipline is "edification" (building up) and not "destruction" (tearing down). When discipline is administered, whether through stern warnings, exclusion from fellowship, or other means, its aim is always redemptive: to bring the sinning individual to repentance, to protect the purity of the church, and to restore the individual to fellowship with God and the community. It is a loving act, however difficult, intended to promote spiritual health, as seen in passages like 1 Corinthians 5:5.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Paul's assertion that his "power which the Lord hath given me" is "to edification, and not to destruction" finds its ultimate fulfillment and model in Jesus Christ. Jesus, the embodiment of divine authority, consistently used His power not for self-aggrandizement or the destruction of humanity, but for the building up of His people and the establishment of His kingdom. His miracles were acts of healing and restoration (Matthew 4:23), His teachings were for spiritual growth and understanding (Matthew 7:28-29), and even His sharp rebukes of the Pharisees were aimed at exposing hypocrisy to lead to truth, though often rejected (Matthew 23:13-36). Ultimately, Christ's supreme act of power was His self-sacrifice on the cross, which, though appearing as weakness, was the ultimate act of "edification"—building a bridge of reconciliation between God and humanity and establishing His Church (Ephesians 2:20-22). Thus, Paul's ministry, empowered by the Lord, mirrors the very nature of Christ's redemptive work, always seeking to build up the body of believers in love and truth, just as Christ built His church upon Himself (Matthew 16:18).