TRV
- English
- King James KJV
- Complete Jewish CJB
- World English WEBM
- Berean Standard BSB
- American Standard ASV
- Geneva GNV
- Young's Literal YLT
- Douay-Rheims DRC
- International
- Shqip ALB
- العربية SVD
- বাংলা BN-IRV
- မြန်မာ Judson
- 简体文 CUV-S
- 繁體中文 CUV-T
- Čeština BKR
- Nederlands STVE
- Français LSG
- Deutsch SCH
- Ελληνικά Vamvas
- ગુજરાતી GU-IRV
- Hausa HCB
- עברית Hebrew
- हिन्दी HCV
- Magyar KAROLI
- Bahasa Indonesia INDO-TB
- Italiano Diodati
- 日本語 Kougo
- 한국어 Korean
- മലയാളം MAL
- मराठी MRCV
- Norsk DNB
- فارسی OPV
- Polski BG
- Português Almeida
- Română Cornilescu
- Русский Synodal
- Español RVG
- Kiswahili Neno
- Svenska SV1917
- Tagalog TAG-ADB
- தமிழ் TCV
- తెలుగు TSA
- ภาษาไทย THAI-KJV
- Українська Ohienko
- Tiếng Việt CADMAN
- Yorùbá YCB
See on the biblical-era map
Study this verse
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
Historical Reception
5 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.
Paul is praying that he and his colleagues will be humbled, as it were, by seeing the Corinthians so well behaved that he will not dare rebuke them. If they are humbled in this way, they will appear to be false. It is when they judge sinners with the authority granted to them that they are seen to be approved as genuine by God. If then there are no people for them to judge, it looks as if they have been proved false through the lessening of their authority.
Then when he has held the threat suspended over their heads, and brought the punishment now up to their doors, and has set them a trembling, and made them look for vengeance; see how again he sweetens down his words and soothes their fear, and shows his unambitious temper, his tender solicitude towards his disciples, his high-principledness of purpose, his loftiness and freedom from vain-glory.
What can be equal to this soul? He was despised, he was spit upon, he was ridiculed, he was mocked, as mean, as contemptible, as a braggart, as boastful in his words but in his deeds unable to make even a little show; and although seeing so great a necessity for showing his own power, he not only puts off, not only shrinks back, but even prays that he may not fall into such a position. For he says, "I pray that ye do no evil, not that we may appear approved, but that ye may do that which is honorable, though we be as reprobate."
What is it he says? "I entreat God. I beseech Him," he says, "that I may find no one unreformed, may find no one that has not repented; yea, rather, not this alone, but that none may have sinned at all. For," he says, "that ye have done no [evil], but if ye have perchance sinned, then that ye may have changed your conduct, and been beforehand with me in reforming, and arresting all wrath. For this is not what I am eager about, that we should be approved in this way, but clean the contrary, that we should not appear approved. For if ye should continue," he says, "sinning and not repenting, it will be necessary for us to chastise, to punish, to maim your bodies; (as happened in the case of Sapphira and of Magus;) and we have given proof of our power. But we pray not for this, but the contrary, that we may not be shown to be approved in this way, that we may not in this way exhibit the proof of the power which is in us, by chastising you and punishing you as sinning and as incurably diseased."
But what? "That ye should do that which is honorable," we pray for this, that ye should ever live in virtue, ever in amendment; "and we should be as reprobate," not displaying our power of punishing. And he said not, "reprobate" for he would not "be" reprobate, even though he did not punish, nay rather for this very reason he would be "approved;" "but even if some suspect us," he says, "on account of our not displaying our power, to be contemptible and cast away, we care nothing for this. Better we should be so deemed of by those, than display the power which God hath given to us in those stripes, and in that unreformedness of heart."
Continue studying 2 Corinthians 13:7 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.
Read & Compare
BibleGatewayThis verse in more than 200 translations and 70 languages.
Bible.comThe YouVersion reader — hundreds of translations, reading plans, and highlights.
ESV.orgCrossway's official English Standard Version reader.
NET BibleThe NET translation with 60,000+ translators' notes on every rendering decision.
STEP BibleTyndale House's free study tool — original text, vocabulary, and scholarly resources.
BibliaLogos Bible Software's free web reader.
USCCBThe New American Bible (Revised Edition) with the U.S. bishops' study notes.
Commentaries
BibleHub CommentariesDozens of classic commentaries on this verse, gathered on one page.
StudyLightMore than 100 commentary sets — the largest collection on the web.
BibleRefPlain-English commentary on what this verse means, verse by verse.
Enduring WordDavid Guzik's free commentary on this chapter, widely used by Bible teachers.
Bible Study ToolsVerse commentary alongside Greek and Hebrew study aids.
Original Language & Research
- BibleHub InterlinearThe verse word by word — original language, transliteration, and English.
- BibleHub LexiconEvery word's original-language definition and Strong's entry.
Blue Letter BibleDeep-study tools — Strong's numbers, concordance, and word studies.
CNTR CollationThe earliest Greek manuscripts of this verse, collated letter by letter.
Sermons, Hymns & Audio
TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.
Summary
In 2 Corinthians 13:7, the Apostle Paul offers a profound prayer for the Corinthian believers, expressing his fervent desire for their moral and spiritual integrity. He prioritizes their righteous conduct over any personal vindication or appearance of apostolic authority, stating his indifference to being perceived as "approved" by them, so long as they genuinely live in a manner pleasing to God, even if it means he himself is considered "reprobate" in their eyes. This verse encapsulates Paul's selfless pastoral heart, emphasizing God's approval as the ultimate standard for both leader and congregation.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is situated within the concluding section of Paul's Second Epistle to the Corinthians, a letter intensely personal and polemical, written amidst significant challenges to his apostolic authority and the spiritual health of the church in Corinth. Chapters 10-13 form a distinct unit where Paul defends his apostleship against detractors, warns against continued sin, and prepares the Corinthians for his impending third visit. He has previously stated his intent to deal severely with unrepentant sinners upon his arrival (2 Corinthians 13:2). Yet, in this verse, his stern warnings give way to a tender prayer, revealing that his ultimate aim is not to prove himself but to see them walk in righteousness. The preceding verses (2 Corinthians 13:5-6) challenge the Corinthians to examine themselves to see if they are in the faith, implying that if they are truly in Christ, they will demonstrate genuine repentance and upright living. Paul's prayer here directly follows this challenge, linking their moral conduct to the proof of their faith and, implicitly, to the validation of his own ministry.
Historical & Cultural Context
The Corinthian church was a vibrant but deeply troubled community, situated in a major Roman port city known for its wealth, diverse population, and moral laxity. The church itself was plagued by factions, immorality, and challenges to Paul's authority, often from "super-apostles" who boasted of their eloquence, spiritual experiences, and financial independence. These opponents likely criticized Paul's humble demeanor, lack of rhetorical flair, and refusal to accept financial support from the Corinthians, viewing these as signs of weakness or lack of genuine apostolic credentials. In this cultural milieu, where status, rhetoric, and outward displays of power were highly valued, Paul's willingness to appear "reprobate" (unapproved, worthless) for the sake of the Corinthians' spiritual good would have been counter-cultural and profoundly sacrificial. His prayer reflects a pastoral strategy that prioritizes the spiritual health of the flock over personal reputation or worldly approval, a stark contrast to the self-promotion of his rivals.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in 2 Corinthians and Paul's theology. Firstly, it underscores the theme of Apostolic Authenticity and Humility. Paul consistently defends his ministry not through worldly boasts but through his suffering, weakness, and selfless service (2 Corinthians 11:23-30). Here, his willingness to be perceived as "reprobate" for the Corinthians' good is the ultimate expression of this humility, demonstrating that his authority is derived from Christ and exercised for the church's edification, not his own exaltation. Secondly, the verse highlights the theme of God's Approval vs. Human Perception. Paul's prayer explicitly states his indifference to human judgment, emphasizing that true approval comes from God alone. This aligns with his broader teaching that believers should seek to please God rather than men (Galatians 1:10). Finally, it reiterates the theme of Christian Conduct and Transformation. Paul's ultimate desire is for the Corinthians to "do that which is honest" and "do no evil," reflecting the expectation that genuine faith produces tangible moral fruit. This emphasis on practical righteousness is a consistent call throughout his epistles, urging believers to live lives worthy of their calling (Ephesians 4:1).
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This word signifies a wish or, by implication, a prayer to God. Paul's use of "I pray" indicates a sincere, earnest desire directed to God, highlighting the depth of his pastoral concern for the Corinthians. It's not merely a statement of hope but an active intercession.
Derived from a word meaning "to test," dókimos describes something or someone that has been tested and found acceptable, genuine, or current (like assayed metal). It implies passing a rigorous examination. Paul's concern is not that he should appear approved by the Corinthians, but that they should be genuinely approved by God through their righteous conduct.
This term is the direct opposite of dókimos. It means "unapproved," "rejected after testing," or "worthless." Paul's willingness to be considered adókimos by the Corinthians, if it means they live righteously, powerfully illustrates his self-sacrificial love and his commitment to their spiritual well-being above his own reputation or perceived success.
Verse Breakdown
"Now I pray to God that ye do no evil;"
Paul begins with a heartfelt prayer, revealing his deepest desire for the Corinthians. His primary concern is not his own vindication or authority, but their moral purity. He prays that they would abstain from all forms of "evil" (kakós), which refers to anything intrinsically bad, depraved, or injurious. This sets the stage for the paradox that follows, as his concern for their good transcends his own standing.
"not that we should appear approved,"
Here, Paul clarifies the motivation behind his prayer. He is not praying for their good conduct so that he might be seen as having successfully disciplined them or that his apostolic authority might be validated in their eyes. His concern is not for external appearances or human approval of his ministry. This clause emphasizes his detachment from self-interest and his focus on a higher purpose.
"but that ye should do that which is honest,"
This is the positive counterpart to "do no evil." Paul's true desire is for them to actively engage in what is "honest" (kalós), which means not just morally good but also beautiful, noble, excellent, and commendable. This indicates a call to a quality of life that is attractive and reflects God's character, moving beyond mere avoidance of sin to active pursuit of virtue. The emphasis shifts from Paul's image to their genuine transformation.
"though we be as reprobates."
This is the most striking and paradoxical part of the verse. Paul states that he is willing to be perceived as "reprobate" (adókimos), meaning unapproved, rejected, or worthless, if it means they will live righteously and thus be genuinely approved by God. He is willing to sacrifice his own reputation and standing among them, allowing them to think he has failed or is not truly an apostle, provided that their lives demonstrate true faith and obedience. This highlights the depth of his pastoral love and his commitment to the gospel above personal gain.
Literary Devices
Paul employs several powerful literary devices in this verse to convey his profound pastoral heart. The most prominent is Antithesis (or Contrast), where he sets up clear oppositions: "do no evil" versus "do that which is honest," and "we should appear approved" versus "we be as reprobates." This stark contrast highlights the core tension between superficial appearances and genuine spiritual reality. There is also a strong element of Paradox in Paul's willingness to be considered "reprobate" for the sake of the Corinthians' spiritual well-being. This seemingly contradictory stance underscores his selfless love and commitment to Christ's kingdom over his personal reputation. Finally, the entire verse functions as a powerful example of Apostolic Humility and Pastoral Intercession, as Paul's prayer reveals a leader who prioritizes the spiritual health of his flock above all else, even his own perceived standing.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Paul's prayer in 2 Corinthians 13:7 encapsulates a profound theological principle: the supremacy of God's approval over human perception. It reflects a core tenet of Pauline theology that true spiritual success is measured not by outward appearances, popularity, or human validation, but by faithfulness to God and the genuine transformation of lives. Paul consistently models a ministry that is willing to endure weakness, suffering, and even reproach for the sake of the gospel and the edification of the church. His willingness to be considered "reprobate" for the Corinthians' good mirrors the self-emptying love of Christ and serves as a powerful reminder that our ultimate aim should be to please God, not to gain human applause or maintain a flawless image. This verse challenges believers to prioritize authentic righteousness and God's glory above all else, even when it means sacrificing personal comfort or reputation.
Reflection and Application
This verse offers a profound challenge and comfort for every believer and leader. It calls us to examine our motivations: are we primarily concerned with how we appear to others, or with genuinely living in a way that honors God? Paul's radical self-abnegation for the sake of the Corinthians' spiritual health convicts us to consider whether our priorities align with God's. For leaders, it's a powerful reminder that true pastoral care often involves sacrificing personal reputation, enduring misunderstanding, and prioritizing the flock's spiritual integrity over one's own perceived success or approval. For all believers, it encourages a life of authentic righteousness, not merely avoiding sin, but actively pursuing what is noble and good, regardless of whether it garners human praise or even leads to human disapproval. Our focus should always be on being "approved" by God through our character and conduct, trusting that His commendation is the only one that truly matters.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What does Paul mean by "reprobates" in this context?
In 2 Corinthians 13:7, when Paul says "though we be as reprobates," he uses the Greek word adókimos (G96), which literally means "unapproved," "rejected after testing," or "worthless." It's the opposite of dókimos (G1384), meaning "approved" or "tested and found genuine." Paul is not suggesting that he is genuinely rejected by God or worthless. Rather, he is expressing his willingness to be perceived as such by the Corinthian church, particularly by those who questioned his apostolic authority and effectiveness. He would rather they live righteously and be genuinely "approved" by God, even if it means they think he has failed to prove his apostleship or that his ministry lacks divine validation. His concern is for their spiritual reality, not his external reputation. This is a profound statement of humility and self-sacrifice for the sake of their spiritual good.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Paul's prayer in 2 Corinthians 13:7, where he expresses a willingness to be considered "reprobate" for the sake of the Corinthians' genuine righteousness, finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Christ, who was truly "approved" by the Father, perfectly embodied the principle of seeking God's will above human approval, as seen in His declaration, "I can do nothing on My own initiative; as I hear, I judge; and My judgment is just, because I do not seek My own will but the will of Him who sent Me" (John 5:30). More significantly, Jesus willingly took on the appearance of being "reprobate" or "rejected" for humanity's salvation. Though sinless, He "made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant" (Philippians 2:7). He was "despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief" (Isaiah 53:3), ultimately becoming "sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him" (2 Corinthians 5:21). Christ, the truly approved one, allowed Himself to be treated as unapproved, condemned, and utterly worthless on the cross, so that we, who were truly "reprobate" in our sin, might be made "approved" and righteous in God's sight. Paul's pastoral heart, willing to be seen as weak for the church's strength, perfectly reflects the self-sacrificial love of the Savior who became weak and rejected so that His people might be strong and accepted.