2 Corinthians 6:11

KJV

¶ O [ye] Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our heart is enlarged.

KJV (with Strong's)

O ye Corinthians {G2881}, our {G2257} mouth {G4750} is open {G455} unto {G4314} you {G5209}, our {G2257} heart {G2588} is enlarged {G4115}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Dear friends in Corinth! We have spoken frankly to you, we have opened our hearts wide.

Berean Standard Bible

We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians. Our hearts are open wide.

American Standard Version

Our mouth is open unto you, O Corinthians, our heart is enlarged.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Corinthians 6:11, the Apostle Paul makes a deeply personal and impassioned appeal to the Corinthian believers, revealing the profound transparency and boundless affection that characterizes his relationship with them. He declares that his communication is unreservedly open and his emotional capacity towards them is expansive, contrasting his genuine love and sincere ministry with any perceived coldness or reservation on their part. This verse serves as a heartfelt invitation for the Corinthians to reciprocate his open-hearted love and embrace the full scope of his apostolic care.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a pivotal emotional outburst within Paul's broader defense of his apostolic ministry and integrity, which spans from [2 Corinthians 2:14](/2_corinthians/2-14 "2 Corinthians 2:14 - Paul's Apostolic Triumph") through [2 Corinthians 7:16](/2_corinthians/7-16 "2 Corinthians 7:16 - Paul's Joy in the Corinthians"). Immediately preceding [2 Corinthians 6:11](/2_corinthians/6-11 "2 Corinthians 6:11 - Paul's Open Heart"), Paul lists a litany of hardships and trials he and his fellow ministers have endured, demonstrating their authenticity and endurance "by pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned" ([2 Corinthians 6:6](/2_corinthians/6-6 "2 Corinthians 6:6 - Paul's Conduct in Ministry")). This catalogue of suffering and steadfastness serves to commend their ministry to the Corinthians, setting the stage for Paul's direct, emotional appeal for their reciprocal affection. The verse also acts as a bridge to his subsequent plea for the Corinthians to "be not unequally yoked together with unbelievers" ([2 Corinthians 6:14](/2_corinthians/6-14 "2 Corinthians 6:14 - Do Not Be Unequally Yoked")), emphasizing that his openness and love for them should inspire them to live in purity and separation from the world.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Corinth was a bustling, cosmopolitan port city known for its wealth, diverse population, and notorious immorality. The Corinthian church, though gifted, was plagued by internal divisions, moral laxity, and challenges to Paul's apostolic authority. False apostles or rival teachers had likely sowed seeds of doubt regarding Paul's motives and legitimacy, leading to a strained relationship. Paul's letters to Corinth are characterized by a deep, complex, and often painful pastoral relationship. His declaration in [2 Corinthians 6:11](/2_corinthians/6-11 "2 Corinthians 6:11 - Paul's Open Heart") is a direct response to these challenges, an attempt to cut through misunderstandings and re-establish the genuine, loving bond he felt for them. He is not merely defending his ministry but pleading for the restoration of their mutual affection and trust, which had been damaged by external influences and internal strife.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in 2 Corinthians. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Apostolic Authenticity and Integrity**. Paul's transparent communication and unreserved love are presented as hallmarks of genuine ministry, contrasting with the deceptive practices of those who sought to undermine him. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Reconciliation and Restoration**, as Paul earnestly desires to mend the fractured relationship with the Corinthians, urging them to respond to his open heart with their own. This echoes the broader theme of the ministry of reconciliation entrusted to believers ([2 Corinthians 5:18-20](/2_corinthians/5-18-20 "2 Corinthians 5:18-20 - The Ministry of Reconciliation")). Thirdly, the verse exemplifies **Pastoral Love and Affection**, revealing Paul's deep, fatherly care for the church, a sentiment he often articulates, as seen in his earlier letter where he refers to himself as their spiritual father ([1 Corinthians 4:15](/1_corinthians/4-15 "1 Corinthians 4:15 - Paul as a Spiritual Father")). His "enlarged heart" is a testament to the expansive nature of divine love that should characterize all Christian relationships.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Corinthians (Greek, _Korínthios'_):** From Κόρινθος; a Corinthian, i.e. inhabitant of Corinth. Paul's direct address to "Corinthians" underscores the personal nature of his appeal. It is not a general statement but a specific, intimate communication directed at the very people with whom he has such a complex and challenging relationship. This immediate address highlights the urgency and sincerity of his plea for their attention and affection.
* **mouth (Greek, _stóma'_):** Probably strengthened from a presumed derivative of the base of τομώτερος; the mouth (as if a gash in the face); by implication, language (and its relations); figuratively, an opening (in the earth); specially, the front or edge (of a weapon). In this context, "mouth" refers to Paul's speech and communication. His "mouth is open" signifies not just the act of speaking, but speaking freely, frankly, and without reservation. There is no hidden agenda, no veiled meaning; his words are direct and transparent, conveying his true feelings and intentions.
* **open (Greek, _anoígō'_):** From ἀνά and (to open); to open up (literally or figuratively, in various applications). Applied to the mouth, "open" means to speak without hindrance or concealment. It implies a readiness to communicate fully and sincerely, holding nothing back. Paul is declaring his complete transparency and honesty in his dealings with the Corinthians, inviting them into a relationship built on trust and directness.
* **heart (Greek, _kardía'_):** Prolonged from a primary (Latin cor, "heart"); the heart, i.e. (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind); also (by analogy) the middle. The "heart" here represents the seat of Paul's emotions, affections, will, and inner being. It is the core of his person. His "heart is enlarged" speaks to the depth and breadth of his emotional capacity and love for the Corinthians, indicating an expansive, unconfined affection.
* **enlarged (Greek, _platýnō'_):** From πλατύς; to widen (literally or figuratively). When applied to the heart, "enlarged" conveys the idea of a spacious, unconfined, and generous disposition. Paul's affection for the Corinthians is not cramped, limited, or conditional but overflowing and boundless. This stands in stark contrast to the "straitened" condition of the Corinthians' affections, which he alludes to in the very next verse ([2 Corinthians 6:12](/2_corinthians/6-12 "2 Corinthians 6:12 - Paul's Plea for Reciprocal Affection")).

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"O ye Corinthians":** Paul's direct address, using the vocative "O," immediately signals a deeply personal and emotional appeal. It is a passionate cry from the heart of an apostle to the specific church he loves and for whom he has labored so intensely, highlighting the intimacy and urgency of his message.
* **"our mouth is open unto you":** This declaration signifies Paul's complete transparency and lack of hidden motives in his communication. He is not guarded or deceptive; his words flow freely and honestly, expressing his true sentiments and intentions without reservation. It's an invitation to a relationship of trust and directness.
* **"our heart is enlarged":** This powerful metaphor reveals the boundless nature of Paul's affection and love for the Corinthians. His heart is not restricted or limited but has expanded to encompass them fully. It speaks of a generous, unconfined, and overflowing love that is ready to embrace them, despite their imperfections and the challenges they have posed to his ministry.

#### Literary Devices
Paul masterfully employs several literary devices in this concise declaration. The most prominent is **Apostrophe**, a direct address to an absent or imaginary person or a personified abstraction. By directly addressing "O ye Corinthians," Paul creates an immediate, intimate connection, drawing his audience into the emotional intensity of his plea. This direct address is amplified by **Metaphor**, specifically in the phrases "our mouth is open" and "our heart is enlarged." The "open mouth" is a metaphor for unreserved, transparent communication, while the "enlarged heart" is a vivid metaphor for boundless, expansive affection and love. These metaphors convey abstract emotional states in concrete, relatable terms. Furthermore, there is an implicit **Antithesis** or **Contrast** at play, setting Paul's open and enlarged heart against the Corinthians' potentially "straitened" affections, which he explicitly addresses in the subsequent verse ([2 Corinthians 6:12](/2_corinthians/6-12 "2 Corinthians 6:12 - Paul's Plea for Reciprocal Love")). This contrast serves to highlight the depth of Paul's love and to gently challenge the Corinthians to respond in kind.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's heartfelt declaration in [2 Corinthians 6:11](/2_corinthians/6-11 "2 Corinthians 6:11 - Paul's Open Heart") is a profound expression of authentic Christian love and ministry. It reveals that genuine spiritual leadership is not characterized by manipulation or self-interest, but by vulnerability, transparency, and a boundless, selfless affection for God's people. This "enlarged heart" reflects the very nature of God's love, which is expansive, inclusive, and unreserved, seeking reconciliation and communion even with those who have been distant or challenging. Paul's appeal is a call for reciprocal love, urging the Corinthians to open their hearts to him as he has opened his to them, thereby fostering a deeper, more unified fellowship rooted in mutual trust and affection. This divine love, flowing through the apostle, becomes the foundation for healthy spiritual relationships and effective ministry.

* [1 Corinthians 4:15](/1_corinthians/4-15 "1 Corinthians 4:15 - Paul as a Spiritual Father")
* [2 Corinthians 7:2-3](/2_corinthians/7-2-3 "2 Corinthians 7:2-3 - Paul's Appeal for Reciprocal Affection")
* [Philippians 1:7-8](/philippians/1-7-8 "Philippians 1:7-8 - Paul's Affection for the Philippians")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's words in [2 Corinthians 6:11](/2_corinthians/6-11 "2 Corinthians 6:11 - Paul's Open Heart") offer a powerful model for our own relationships, both within the church and in our daily lives. His "open mouth" challenges us to cultivate sincerity and transparency in our communication, speaking truth in love without hidden agendas or guardedness. This means being willing to be vulnerable, to share our true selves, and to address issues directly but with grace. His "enlarged heart" calls us to an expansive, unconditional love that mirrors Christ's own. This kind of love is not easily offended, quick to judge, or limited by others' imperfections. Instead, it seeks to understand, forgive, and embrace, extending grace and compassion even when relationships are difficult. For leaders, this verse underscores the necessity of authentic pastoral care, flowing from a genuine affection for those served, rather than from duty or position alone. It reminds us that true influence is built on trust, vulnerability, and a love that is willing to be fully present and unreserved.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or relationships do I tend to be guarded or hold back my true feelings?**
* **How can I intentionally cultivate a more "enlarged heart" towards those I find challenging to love?**
* **What does "open communication" look like in my closest relationships, and how can I practice it more effectively?**
* **How does Paul's example of vulnerability and love inform my understanding of authentic Christian leadership or discipleship?**

### FAQ
**What does Paul mean by "our mouth is open unto you"?**

Answer: When Paul says "our mouth is open unto you," he is declaring his complete transparency and lack of hidden motives in his communication with the Corinthians. It means he speaks freely, frankly, and without reservation. He is not holding anything back, nor is he being deceptive or manipulative. His words are a direct and honest expression of his true feelings, intentions, and the genuine nature of his apostolic ministry. This phrase emphasizes his desire for an open and trusting relationship, where there are no secrets or veiled messages between him and the church in Corinth. It's an invitation for them to receive his words as coming from a place of sincerity and truth, contrasting with any accusations of insincerity that may have been leveled against him.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's declaration of an "open mouth" and an "enlarged heart" finds its ultimate fulfillment and perfect expression in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Christ Himself is the embodiment of transparent love and boundless affection. His entire earthly ministry was characterized by an "open mouth," speaking truth with unparalleled authority and grace, revealing the very heart of God the Father ([John 1:18](/john/1-18 "John 1:18 - No One Has Seen God")). He held nothing back from His disciples, even when the truth was difficult ([John 6:60-69](/john/6-60-69 "John 6:60-69 - Many Disciples Turn Away")). More profoundly, Christ's "enlarged heart" is seen in His willingness to embrace humanity in its brokenness, extending boundless love even to His enemies ([Romans 5:8](/romans/5-8 "Romans 5:8 - God Demonstrates His Love")). His heart was so enlarged that He willingly laid down His life on the cross, making a way for reconciliation between God and humanity ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Ephesians 2:14-16 - Christ Our Peace")). Paul, as an apostle, sought to mirror this divine love and openness, becoming an instrument through whom Christ's own expansive love could flow to the Corinthians, calling them into a fellowship defined by the same open-hearted, reconciling love that originates in God through Jesus Christ.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Corinthians 7:3

I speak not [this] to condemn [you]: for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts to die and live with [you].

2 Corinthians 7:4

Great [is] my boldness of speech toward you, great [is] my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.

Philippians 1:8

For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ.

Psalms 119:32

I will run the way of thy commandments, when thou shalt enlarge my heart.

2 Corinthians 12:15

And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved.

2 Corinthians 2:4

For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote unto you with many tears; not that ye should be grieved, but that ye might know the love which I have more abundantly unto you.

Galatians 3:1

¶ O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you?