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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 13:11–14. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Thus the apostle concludes this epistle with,
I.A valediction.
He gives them a parting farewell, and takes his leave of them for the present, with hearty good wishes for their spiritual welfare. In order to this,
1.He gives them several good exhortations.
(1.)To be perfect, or to be knit together in love, which would tend greatly to their advantage as a church, or Christian society.
(2.)To be of good comfort under all the sufferings and persecutions they might endure for the cause of Christ or any calamities and disappointments they might meet with in the world.
(3.)To be of one mind, which would greatly tend to their comfort; for the more easy we are with our brethren the more ease we shall have in our own souls. The apostle would have them, as far as was possible, to be of the same opinion and judgment; however, if this could not be attained, yet,
(4.)He exhorts them to live in peace, that difference in opinion should not cause an alienation of affections - that they should be at peace among themselves. He would have all the schisms that were among them healed, that there should be no more contention and wrath found among them, to prevent which they should avoid debates, envyings, backbitings, whisperings, and such like enemies to peace.
2.He encourages them with the promise of God's presence among them: The God of love and peace shall be with you, Co2 13:11. Note,
(1.)God is the God of love and peace. He is the author of peace, and lover of concord. He hath loved us, and is willing to be at peace with us; he commands us to love him, and to be reconciled to him, and also that we love one another, and be at peace among ourselves.
(2.)God will be with those who live in love and peace. He will love those who love peace; he will dwell with them here, and they shall dwell with him for ever. Such shall have God's gracious presence here, and be admitted to his glorious presence hereafter.
3.He gives directions to them to salute each other, and sends kind salutations to them from those who were with him, Co2 13:12, Co2 13:13. He would have them testify their affection to one another by the sacred rite of a kiss of charity, which was then used, but has long been disused, to prevent all occasions of wantonness and impurity, in the more declining and degenerate state of the church.
II.The apostolical benediction (Co2 13:14):
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Thus the apostle concludes his epistle, and thus it is usual and proper to dismiss worshipping assemblies. This plainly proves the doctrine of the gospel, and is an acknowledgment that Father, Son, and Spirit, are three distinct persons, yet but one God; and herein the same, that they are the fountain of all blessings to men. It likewise intimates our duty, which is to have an eye by faith to Father, Son, and Holy Ghost - to live in a continual regard to the three persons in the Trinity, into whose name we were baptized, and in whose name we are blessed. This is a very solemn benediction, and we should give all diligence to inherit this blessing. The grace of Christ, the love of God, and the communion (or communication) of the Holy Ghost: the grace of Christ as Redeemer, the love of God who sent the Redeemer, and all the communications of this grace and love, which come to us by the Holy Ghost; it is the communications of the Holy Ghost that qualify us for an interest in the grace of Christ, and the love of God: and we can desire no more to make us happy than the grace of Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost. Amen.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
7 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
The joy referred to here will come when the Corinthians mend their ways, after which it will be possible for them to mature in faith. But before that there will be consolation, enabling them to abandon the pleasure of the present in favor of hope for things to come. The peace of God is one thing, but the peace of the world is another. People in the world have peace, but it works to their damnation. The peace of Christ is free from sins, and therefore it is pleasing to God. A person who has peace will also have love, and the God of both will protect him forever.
And not only now let us seem to believe and give heed, when we are admonished by the elders; but also when we take our departure home, let us remember the commandments of the Lord, and not be allured back by worldly lusts, but let us often and often draw near and try to make progress in the Lord's commands, that we all having the same mind may be gathered together for life.
"Be comforted." For, since their trials were numerous, and their perils great, he says, '"be comforted," both by one another, and by us, and by your change unto the better. For if ye should have joy of conscience and become complete, nothing is wanting unto your cheerfulness and comfort. For nothing doth so produce comfort as a pure conscience, yea, though innumerable trials surround.'
"And the God of love and peace shall be with you." For truly he not only recommends and advises, but also prays. For either he prays for this, or else foretells what shall happen; or rather, both. 'For if ye do these things,' he says, 'for instance, if ye be "of one mind" and "live in peace," God also will be with you, for He is "the God of love and of peace," and in these things He delighteth, He rejoiceth. Hence shall peace also be yours from His love; hence shall every evil be removed. This saved the world, this ended the long war, this blended together heaven and earth, this made men angels. This then let us also imitate, for love is the mother of countless good things. By this we were saved, by this all those unspeakable good things [come] to us.'
"Be perfected." What is, "be perfected?" 'Be complete, fill up what is deficient.'
What means, "for the rest, brethren, rejoice?" Thou hast pained, terrified, thrown them into an agony, made them to tremble and fear, and how biddest thou them rejoice? 'Why, for this very reason I bid them rejoice. For,' he says, 'if what is your part follow upon mine, there will be nothing to prevent that joy. For all my part has been done; I have suffered long, I have delayed, I have forborne to cut off, I have besought, I have advised, I have alarmed, I have threatened, so as by every means to gather you in unto the fruit of repentance. And now it behoveth that your part be done, and so your joy will be unfading.'
"Be of the same mind, live in peace." The request he made in the former Epistle also, at the opening. For it is possible to be of one mind, and yet not to live in peace, [for instance], when people agree in doctrine, but in their dealings with each other are at variance. But Paul requires both.
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Summary
In 2 Corinthians 13:11, the Apostle Paul delivers his final, heartfelt exhortations and a profound benediction to the Corinthian believers. This verse encapsulates his earnest desire for their spiritual maturity, mutual encouragement, unified purpose, and harmonious living, promising that the very presence of God, who is characterized by love and peace, will abide with them as they strive to embody these virtues. It serves as a comprehensive summary of his pastoral concerns and a powerful call to communal flourishing before his anticipated third visit.
Context
Literary Context
This verse stands as the climactic conclusion to Paul's Second Epistle to the Corinthians, a letter intensely personal and deeply theological. Throughout 2 Corinthians, Paul defends his apostolic authority against detractors, addresses the Corinthians' repentance (or lack thereof), clarifies the nature of the New Covenant ministry, and urges them to complete their collection for the saints in Jerusalem. The preceding verses (2 Corinthians 13:1-10) contain stern warnings about Paul's impending visit, where he intends to exercise his apostolic authority to confront unrepentant sin. He challenges them to "examine yourselves" (2 Corinthians 13:5) to see if they are in the faith. Therefore, 2 Corinthians 13:11 serves as a gracious, final appeal for the Corinthians to rectify their issues, mature in their faith, and live harmoniously, thereby avoiding the need for Paul to come with severity. It is a pastoral plea for them to prepare themselves for a joyful reunion rather than a disciplinary confrontation.
Historical & Cultural Context
The city of Corinth was a bustling, cosmopolitan port city, notorious in the ancient world for its wealth, trade, and moral laxity. Its diverse population included Greeks, Romans, and Jews, leading to a complex social and religious landscape. The Corinthian church, established by Paul, reflected this diversity but also struggled with significant internal divisions, pride, immorality, and challenges to apostolic authority. They were influenced by the prevailing philosophical currents and social distinctions of their time, often manifesting in factions, lawsuits among believers, and a misunderstanding of spiritual gifts. Paul's exhortations in 2 Corinthians 13:11 directly address these historical realities, urging them towards unity, peace, and spiritual maturity in a context where such virtues were conspicuously lacking and desperately needed for the church's health and witness.
Key Themes
This concluding verse powerfully synthesizes several major themes that Paul has developed throughout 2 Corinthians and his broader epistles. The call to "be perfect" speaks to the theme of spiritual transformation and maturity, a process of being conformed to Christ's image (as seen in 2 Corinthians 3:18). "Be of good comfort" underscores the theme of divine consolation and mutual encouragement, a recurring motif where Paul himself finds comfort in God amidst suffering and then extends that comfort to others (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). The exhortation to "be of one mind" and "live in peace" addresses the critical theme of unity and reconciliation within the body of Christ, a persistent concern for Paul in Corinth and elsewhere (Philippians 2:2-4). Finally, the promise of "the God of love and peace shall be with you" highlights the ultimate theme of God's abiding presence and blessing as the culmination of faithful obedience and communal harmony, emphasizing God's character as the source and sustainer of these virtues.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
Meaning "to complete thoroughly, i.e. repair (literally or figuratively) or adjust:--fit, frame, mend, (make) perfect(-ly join together), prepare, restore." This word carries the sense of being mended, restored, equipped, or brought to a state of wholeness and fitness. It is not about achieving sinless perfection, but about being made spiritually complete, adjusted in their relationships, and fully prepared for God's purposes. It implies a process of restoration and maturing, like mending a net or setting a broken bone.
Meaning "to call near, i.e. invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation):--beseech, call for, (be of good) comfort, desire, (give) exhort(-ation), intreat, pray." This word encompasses a range of meanings from comforting and encouraging to exhorting and appealing. In this context, it suggests mutual encouragement and consolation, urging the Corinthians to strengthen and uplift one another, especially in their struggles and divisions.
Meaning "to be (act) peaceful:--be at (have, live in) peace, live peaceably." This is an active verb, commanding the believers to actively pursue and maintain peace within their community. It implies a deliberate effort to resolve conflicts, foster harmony, and avoid strife, reflecting the character of God, who is the "God of peace" (G1515, eirḗnē).
Verse Breakdown
"Finally, brethren, farewell."
Paul signals the conclusion of his letter, addressing them affectionately as "brethren" (G80, adelphós'), emphasizing their shared spiritual family bond. The term "farewell" (G5463, chaírō'), while a common parting greeting, also carries the nuance of "rejoice" or "be well," suggesting Paul's desire for their spiritual health and joy.
"Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace;"
These are four distinct, yet interconnected, imperatives for the Corinthian church. "Be perfect" calls for spiritual maturity and completeness. "Be of good comfort" encourages mutual edification and consolation. "Be of one mind" demands unity in purpose and thought, transcending factionalism. "Live in peace" is an active command to cultivate harmonious relationships and resolve conflicts within the community.
"and the God of love and peace shall be with you."
This clause serves as both a promise and a benediction. It links the presence of God directly to the church's obedience to the preceding commands. God's very nature is defined as "love" (G26, agápē') and "peace" (G1515, eirḗnē'), and His manifest presence is contingent upon the community embodying these virtues. It is a powerful assurance that as they strive for these qualities, God Himself will dwell among them.
Literary Devices
Paul employs several significant literary devices in this concluding verse. The most prominent is Exhortation, as he issues a series of direct commands ("Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace") that serve as a final pastoral appeal for the Corinthians' spiritual health and communal harmony. This series of imperatives creates a sense of urgency and directness. Following these commands, Paul transitions into a Benediction, offering a divine blessing and promise: "and the God of love and peace shall be with you." This benediction acts as both an incentive for obedience and a gracious assurance of God's faithfulness. There is also a subtle form of Cause and Effect or Conditional Promise at play, where the presence of the "God of love and peace" is presented as the natural outcome or divine reward for the church's active pursuit of maturity, comfort, unity, and peace. The verse also exhibits a form of Parallelism in its structure, presenting a series of virtues to be cultivated, followed by the promised divine presence that embodies those very virtues.
Theological and Thematic Connections
2 Corinthians 13:11 beautifully encapsulates the essence of Christian community and the character of God. Theologically, it underscores that God is not merely a distant deity but the active source and sustainer of the very virtues He commands His people to pursue: love and peace. The call to "be perfect" points to the ongoing process of sanctification, where believers are continually being conformed to the image of Christ, growing in spiritual maturity and wholeness. The emphasis on unity and peace reflects the Trinitarian nature of God, who is perfectly unified, and the divine desire for His people to reflect that unity in their relationships, thereby bearing witness to the world. The promise of God's presence serves as the ultimate motivation and reward, affirming that true flourishing—both individual and communal—is found in abiding with the God who is love and peace.
Reflection and Application
Paul's final words to the Corinthians are not just ancient advice; they are timeless principles for building healthy, vibrant Christian communities today. The call to "be perfect" reminds us that spiritual growth is an ongoing journey of restoration and equipping, not a one-time event. We are continually being mended and made whole by God's grace. To "be of good comfort" challenges us to be actively involved in the lives of our fellow believers, offering encouragement, support, and consolation, especially in times of difficulty or disagreement. "Be of one mind" compels us to prioritize unity in Christ above personal preferences or divisive issues, seeking a shared commitment to the Gospel and the mission of the church. "Live in peace" is a direct command to be peacemakers, actively pursuing reconciliation and harmony in all our relationships, within the church and beyond. As we earnestly strive to embody these virtues, we are promised the profound blessing of God's manifest presence, for the "God of love and peace" delights to dwell among a people who reflect His character.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does Paul mean by "Be perfect" if we are all sinners?
The Greek word translated "perfect" (G2675, katartízō) does not imply sinless perfection in the sense of moral faultlessness. Instead, it carries the meaning of being mended, restored, equipped, or brought to a state of completeness and fitness. It is used elsewhere to describe mending fishing nets (Matthew 4:21), restoring a brother caught in sin (Galatians 6:1), or equipping saints for ministry (Ephesians 4:12). Therefore, "be perfect" in this context is an exhortation to spiritual maturity, wholeness, and being fully prepared and adjusted in their faith and relationships, especially in light of the divisions and issues Paul addressed throughout the letter. It's a call to be made whole and healthy in their faith and communal life.
How can a diverse group of believers "be of one mind" without losing their individuality?
"Being of one mind" (G5426, phronéō) does not demand uniformity of opinion on every minor detail or the suppression of individual personality. Rather, it refers to a shared disposition, a common purpose, and a unity in core theological convictions and values. It means having the same spiritual outlook and prioritizing the overarching mission of Christ and the unity of the body over personal preferences or divisive issues. Paul often emphasizes this kind of unity, as seen in Philippians 2:2, where he calls believers to have "the same love, being of one accord, of one mind." It's about a shared commitment to Christ and His kingdom, fostering cooperation and mutual respect.
Is the promise "the God of love and peace shall be with you" conditional?
While God's presence is ultimately a gift of grace, Paul often presents the manifest experience of God's presence and blessing as being intrinsically linked to the obedience and character of His people. In this verse, the promise follows a series of imperatives, suggesting that as the Corinthians actively pursue maturity, comfort, unity, and peace, they will experientially realize the presence of the "God of love and peace" among them. It's not a transactional exchange, but a natural consequence: when a community embodies God's character, they create an environment where His presence is powerfully revealed and experienced. This aligns with other passages where God promises His presence to those who obey His commands, such as John 14:23.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
The powerful benediction in 2 Corinthians 13:11 finds its ultimate fulfillment and enablement in Jesus Christ. He is the embodiment of the "God of love and peace." It is through Christ that believers are made "perfect" (G2675, katartízō), for He is the one who restores, equips, and brings us to spiritual maturity, making us complete in Him (Colossians 2:10). Our ability to "be of good comfort" and offer encouragement to one another flows from the comfort we have first received in Christ, who is our ultimate Comforter and Advocate (John 14:16). The call to "be of one mind" and "live in peace" is realized through the unifying work of the Holy Spirit, whom Christ sent, breaking down dividing walls and creating one new humanity in Himself (Ephesians 2:14-16). Jesus Himself is our peace (Ephesians 2:14), and His love (G26, agápē) is poured into our hearts, enabling us to love one another as He loved us (Romans 5:5). Thus, the promise that "the God of love and peace shall be with you" is a promise of Christ's abiding presence through His Spirit, empowering believers to live out these virtues and manifest God's character in the world, until the day when He returns to establish His perfect kingdom of love and peace.