2 Corinthians 6:17

KJV

Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean [thing]; and I will receive you,

KJV (with Strong's)

Wherefore {G1352} come out {G1831} from {G1537} among {G3319} them {G846}, and {G2532} be ye separate {G873}, saith {G3004} the Lord {G2962}, and {G2532} touch {G680} not {G3361} the unclean {G169} thing; and {G2504} I will receive {G1523} you {G5209},

Complete Jewish Bible

Therefore Adonai says,

“‘Go out from their midst;
separate yourselves;
don’t even touch what is unclean.
Then I myself will receive you.

Berean Standard Bible

“Therefore come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.”

American Standard Version

Wherefore Come ye out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, And touch no unclean thing; And I will receive you,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Second Corinthians 6:17 issues a divine imperative for believers to intentionally separate themselves from the defiling influences of the world, particularly in their intimate associations and practices. This call to spiritual and moral distinction, rooted in Old Testament principles of holiness, promises divine reception and intimate fellowship to those who obey, underscoring God's desire for a pure and set-apart people.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the climactic command within a broader exhortation (2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1) where Paul passionately warns the Corinthian believers against forming "unequal yokes" with unbelievers. The preceding verses establish a stark contrast between righteousness and lawlessness, light and darkness, Christ and Belial, and the temple of God and idols ([2 Corinthians 6:14-16](/2_corinthians/6-14-16 "2 Corinthians 6:14-16 - Unequal Yokes and God's Temple")). Paul argues that such fundamental incompatibilities preclude deep, binding partnerships. Verse 17, therefore, is the logical conclusion to this argument, providing the divine command to physically and spiritually withdraw from practices and relationships that compromise their identity as God's people. The subsequent verse, [2 Corinthians 6:18](/2_corinthians/6-18 "2 Corinthians 6:18 - God's Promise of Fatherhood"), then articulates the profound covenantal blessings that accompany such obedience, solidifying the promise of intimate divine relationship.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Corinthian church was situated in a bustling, cosmopolitan city known for its diverse religious cults, rampant immorality, and strong pagan influences, including temple prostitution and idol worship. Believers in Corinth would have faced constant pressure to conform to prevailing cultural norms, which often involved participation in pagan feasts, social gatherings tied to idolatry, or business dealings that necessitated compromise with ungodly practices. Paul's exhortation to "come out" and "be separate" directly echoes Old Testament calls for Israel to maintain their distinct identity amidst surrounding idolatrous nations, such as the command to depart from Babylon in [Isaiah 52:11](/isaiah/52-11 "Isaiah 52:11 - Depart from Babylon") and [Jeremiah 51:45](/jeremiah/51-45 "Jeremiah 51:45 - Flee Babylon"). This historical precedent underscores that God's people, whether ancient Israel or the New Testament church, are called to a unique standard of holiness in a world often hostile to divine purity.

* **Key Themes:** The central theme of [2 Corinthians 6](/2_corinthians/6 "2 Corinthians 6 - Paul's Ministry and Call to Holiness") and particularly this verse is **Separation and Holiness**. God's people are called to be set apart, not merely in location but in character, values, and practices, reflecting His own holy nature. This leads to the theme of **Purity**, as the command "touch not the unclean thing" emphasizes abstaining from anything that defiles morally, spiritually, or even ritually in a symbolic sense, reminiscent of the clean/unclean distinctions in the Old Testament Law. The ultimate motivation for this separation is the theme of **Divine Reception and Intimacy**. The promise "and I will receive you" highlights God's desire for a deep, covenantal relationship with His people, a relationship contingent upon their faithfulness and purity, as further elaborated in the subsequent promise of God being their Father and they His sons and daughters in [2 Corinthians 6:18](/2_corinthians/6-18 "2 Corinthians 6:18 - God's Promise of Fatherhood").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **come out (Greek, _exérchomai'_):** From ἐκ (ek, "out of") and ἔρχομαι (érchomai, "to come/go"), this verb means "to issue forth," "to depart," or "to go out." In this context, it is an imperative, demanding a decisive and active withdrawal from the midst of unholy associations or influences. It implies a physical and spiritual disengagement from that which is contrary to God's will.
* **be ye separate (Greek, _aphorízō'_):** Derived from ἀπό (apó, "from") and ὁρίζω (horízō, "to set a boundary"), this term literally means "to set off by boundary," "to mark off," or "to distinguish." It conveys the idea of being distinctly marked or set apart for a specific purpose. Here, it signifies a divine act of consecration and a human act of choosing to live distinctly from the world, establishing clear boundaries against defilement.
* **unclean (Greek, _akáthartos'_):** Formed from the negative particle α (a) and a presumed root meaning "cleansed," this adjective denotes something "impure," "defiled," or "unclean." This impurity can be ceremonial (as in Old Testament law), moral (referring to lewdness or sin), or even spiritual (associated with demonic influence). In 2 Corinthians 6:17, it broadly encompasses anything that is morally or spiritually defiling in God's sight, particularly in the context of pagan practices and worldly compromise.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Wherefore come out from among them":** This phrase serves as a logical conclusion ("Wherefore") to Paul's preceding argument against unequal yokes. It is a direct and urgent command, an imperative for believers to physically and spiritually withdraw from deep, compromising entanglements with unbelievers or ungodly systems. It implies a decisive break from associations that could dilute their faith or defile their spiritual integrity.
* **"and be ye separate, saith the Lord":** This is a reinforcing command, emphasizing the nature of the required withdrawal. It's not just a physical departure but a setting apart, a consecration to God. The phrase "saith the Lord" lends divine authority and weight to the command, indicating that this is not merely Paul's advice but a direct word from God, echoing His covenantal call for Israel to be a holy nation.
* **"and touch not the unclean [thing];":** This further clarifies the practical outworking of separation. "Touch not" implies abstaining from participation in, or close association with, anything that is morally or spiritually defiling. The "unclean thing" refers broadly to anything impure in God's eyes, including idolatry, immorality, or any practice that compromises Christian purity and witness. It's a call to active avoidance of defilement.
* **"and I will receive you,":** This clause presents the glorious divine promise contingent upon obedience to the preceding commands. "Receive" here signifies acceptance, welcome, and the establishment of a close, intimate relationship. It is God's pledge to embrace as His own those who prioritize holiness and separation, leading directly into the covenantal promises of [2 Corinthians 6:18](/2_corinthians/6-18 "2 Corinthians 6:18 - God's Promise of Fatherhood").

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several powerful literary devices in 2 Corinthians 6:17 to convey his urgent message. The dominant device is **Imperative Mood**, seen in "come out," "be ye separate," and "touch not," which conveys direct commands from a position of authority, emphasizing the non-negotiable nature of God's call to holiness. There is a strong element of **Allusion** to Old Testament passages, particularly the prophetic calls for Israel to separate from idolatrous nations (e.g., [Isaiah 52:11](/isaiah/52-11 "Isaiah 52:11 - Depart from Babylon")), which grounds the New Testament command in a long-standing biblical tradition of divine separation. The phrase "the unclean [thing]" functions as a **Metonymy** or **Synecdoche**, where a part (the unclean thing) stands for the whole concept of spiritual defilement, encompassing all forms of sin and idolatry. Finally, the verse concludes with a clear **Conditional Promise**: if believers obey the commands to separate and remain pure, then God will "receive" them, highlighting the blessings of covenantal relationship that flow from obedience.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly articulates the theological principle of divine holiness and humanity's call to reflect it. God, as the perfectly holy one, cannot commune intimately with impurity. Therefore, His people are commanded to be "set apart" (holy) for Him, echoing the foundational covenantal relationship established with Israel at Sinai ([Leviticus 11:44-45](/leviticus/11-44-45 "Leviticus 11:44-45 - Be Holy, For I Am Holy")). This separation is not merely external but involves an internal transformation that rejects the values and practices of a fallen world. The promise of "I will receive you" underscores God's unwavering desire for a deep, reciprocal relationship with His children, a relationship made possible by their commitment to purity and His gracious invitation. This reception is a foretaste of the full communion believers will experience in His presence.

* [Isaiah 52:11](/isaiah/52-11 "Isaiah 52:11 - Depart from Babylon")
* [Leviticus 11:44-45](/leviticus/11-44-45 "Leviticus 11:44-45 - Be Holy, For I Am Holy")
* [1 Peter 1:15-16](/1_peter/1-15-16 "1 Peter 1:15-16 - Be Holy in All Your Conduct")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Second Corinthians 6:17 remains a vital call to spiritual integrity for believers today, challenging us to critically examine the influences we allow into our lives. This command to "come out" and "be separate" is not a call to monastic isolation from society, but rather to a radical distinction in our values, ethics, and priorities. It compels us to evaluate our closest relationships, our entertainment choices, our business practices, and even our thought patterns, asking whether they align with God's holiness or compromise our witness and spiritual purity. True separation means cultivating a heart that is set apart for God, actively choosing to abstain from anything that defiles the "temple of the Holy Spirit" ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body is a Temple")). By embracing this call, we not only honor God but also position ourselves to experience the profound blessing of His intimate presence and reception, living out our identity as His beloved children in a world desperately in need of light.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what specific areas of my life (relationships, media, habits) might I be "unequally yoked" or "touching the unclean thing" without realizing it?**
* **What practical steps can I take this week to "come out from among them" and "be separate" in a way that honors God without withdrawing from my responsibilities in the world?**
* **How does the promise "I will receive you" motivate my pursuit of holiness and separation from worldly defilement?**

### FAQ
**Does "come out from among them" mean Christians should avoid all contact with non-Christians?**

Answer: No, the command to "come out from among them" in [2 Corinthians 6:17](/2_corinthians/6-17 "2 Corinthians 6:17 - Call to Separation") does not advocate for complete physical isolation from non-believers. Jesus Himself interacted with sinners and tax collectors ([Matthew 9:10-13](/matthew/9-10-13 "Matthew 9:10-13 - Jesus Eats with Sinners")), and Paul encourages believers to be salt and light in the world ([Matthew 5:13-16](/matthew/5-13-16 "Matthew 5:13-16 - Salt and Light")). The separation called for is primarily spiritual and moral. It means avoiding deep, binding partnerships (like marriage or business ventures) or intimate associations that could compromise one's faith, dilute one's spiritual convictions, or lead to participation in ungodly practices. It's about maintaining a distinct identity and purity of heart, not about abandoning the mission to share the gospel with the world.

**What exactly does "touch not the unclean thing" refer to?**

Answer: In [2 Corinthians 6:17](/2_corinthians/6-17 "2 Corinthians 6:17 - Call to Separation"), "touch not the unclean thing" refers to abstaining from anything that is morally or spiritually defiling in God's sight. This concept draws from Old Testament purity laws, where "unclean" could refer to ceremonial impurity, but in the New Testament, it extends primarily to moral and spiritual defilement. Given the Corinthian context, it likely includes participation in idolatrous feasts, sexual immorality, pagan worship practices, and any behavior that compromises Christian ethics or the sanctity of the body as the temple of the Holy Spirit ([1 Corinthians 6:19](/1_corinthians/6-19 "1 Corinthians 6:19 - Your Body is a Temple")). It's a broad call to avoid anything that would contaminate one's spiritual walk or violate God's holy character.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Second Corinthians 6:17 finds its ultimate fulfillment and power in Jesus Christ. He is the embodiment of perfect holiness and the one through whom God "receives" us. We are called to "come out from among them" because Christ Himself was utterly separate from sin, though He entered our sinful world to redeem it ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Our High Priest")). He touched the "unclean" (lepers, sinners) not to be defiled, but to make them clean, bearing our uncleanness on the cross so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "2 Corinthians 5:21 - Christ Our Righteousness")). Through His atoning sacrifice, Christ provides the means by which we are cleansed from all impurity, enabling us to be truly "separate" and holy unto God. Our ability to obey this command is not by our own strength but by the power of the Holy Spirit, who indwells us as a result of Christ's work, transforming us into His likeness ([Romans 8:9-11](/romans/8-9-11 "Romans 8:9-11 - The Spirit's Indwelling")). Thus, the divine reception promised in this verse is ultimately a reception into the family of God through adoption in Christ ([Galatians 4:4-7](/galatians/4-4-7 "Galatians 4:4-7 - Adoption as Sons")), making us co-heirs with Him and enabling us to live as God's holy children, set apart for His glory.

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

Isaiah 52:11

Depart ye, depart ye, go ye out from thence, touch no unclean [thing]; go ye out of the midst of her; be ye clean, that bear the vessels of the LORD.

Revelation 18:4

And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.

2 Corinthians 7:1

¶ Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

Ezra 10:11

Now therefore make confession unto the LORD God of your fathers, and do his pleasure: and separate yourselves from the people of the land, and from the strange wives.

Numbers 16:26

And he spake unto the congregation, saying, Depart, I pray you, from the tents of these wicked men, and touch nothing of theirs, lest ye be consumed in all their sins.

Psalms 1:1

¶ Blessed [is] the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

Psalms 1:3

And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.