2 Corinthians 13:3

Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is mighty in you.

Since {G1893} ye seek {G2212} a proof {G1382} of Christ {G5547} speaking {G2980} in {G1722} me {G1698}, which {G3739} to {G1519} you-ward {G5209} is {G770} not {G3756} weak {G770}, but {G235} is mighty {G1414} in {G1722} you {G5213}.

since you are looking for proof of the Messiah speaking in me. He is not weak in dealing with you, but he is powerful among you.

since you are demanding proof that Christ is speaking through me. He is not weak in dealing with you, but is powerful among you.

seeing that ye seek a proof of Christ that speaketh in me; who to you-ward is not weak, but is powerful in you:

Commentary

Context of 2 Corinthians 13:3

This verse is part of Paul's concluding remarks in his Second Epistle to the Corinthians, where he defends his apostolic authority and prepares the church for his third visit. The Corinthian believers, influenced by false teachers and internal factions, were challenging Paul's legitimacy, demanding "proof" that Christ truly spoke through him. They perceived him as weak in person and strong only in letters (2 Corinthians 10:10). Paul asserts that the evidence of Christ's power was not lacking, but was, in fact, powerfully at work within them.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Apostolic Authority and Divine Validation: Paul's ministry was not of human origin but directly empowered by Christ. The Corinthians' demand for proof was a challenge to Christ's presence in Paul's life and ministry.
  • Christ's Power Manifested: Paul emphasizes that the proof they sought was not an abstract concept but a tangible reality experienced by the Corinthians themselves. The spiritual transformations, gifts, and works among them were clear evidence of Christ's active presence, which Paul calls "mighty in you." This echoes his earlier teaching on Christ's strength being made perfect in weakness.
  • Spiritual Proof Over Superficial Signs: The "proof" was not in outward show or eloquent speech (which the Corinthians often valued), but in the spiritual fruit and power evident in their lives and the church's growth.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "proof" here is dokimē (δοκιμή), which implies not just a demonstration but a test or an approved character shown through experience. It suggests that the Corinthians already had experiential evidence of Christ's work through Paul. The word "mighty" comes from dynatos (δυνατὸς), signifying powerful, able, or strong, emphasizing the active and effective nature of Christ's power at work in their community.

Practical Application

For believers today, this verse reminds us that true spiritual authority and the authenticity of God's work are often demonstrated not by outward displays of power or human charisma, but by the transformative impact of Christ's presence in individuals and communities. We should look for the "proof" of Christ speaking through someone in the spiritual fruit, the changed lives, and the evident power of God that works "mighty in you," rather than seeking superficial signs or doubting those whose ministry may not fit our preconceived notions of strength. Our own spiritual experiences and growth can serve as a testament to the divine reality working through others.

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Cross-References

  • Matthew 10:20

    For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.

  • 2 Corinthians 10:8

    For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed:

  • 2 Corinthians 10:10

    For [his] letters, say they, [are] weighty and powerful; but [his] bodily presence [is] weak, and [his] speech contemptible.

  • Luke 21:15

    For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.

  • 2 Corinthians 12:12

    Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds.

  • 1 Corinthians 9:1

    ¶ Am I not an apostle? am I not free? have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? are not ye my work in the Lord?

  • 1 Corinthians 9:3

    ¶ Mine answer to them that do examine me is this,
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