2 Corinthians 7:2

KJV

Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man.

KJV (with Strong's)

Receive {G5562} us {G2248}; we have wronged {G91} no man {G3762}, we have corrupted {G5351} no man {G3762}, we have defrauded {G4122} no man {G3762}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Make room for us in your hearts — we haven’t wronged anyone, we haven’t corrupted anyone, we haven’t exploited anyone.

Berean Standard Bible

Make room for us in your hearts. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have exploited no one.

American Standard Version

Open your hearts to us: we wronged no man, we corrupted no man, we took advantage of no man.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Paul earnestly appeals to the Corinthian church to open their hearts to him and his fellow ministers, assuring them of his blameless conduct and integrity. He vehemently denies any accusations of having wronged, corrupted, or defrauded anyone, thereby emphasizing his pure motives, transparent dealings, and upright character in all his interactions with them as a minister of the Gospel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows Paul's profound expression of affection and vulnerability to the Corinthians in [2 Corinthians 6:11-13](/2_corinthians/6-11-13 "Paul's Open Heart to the Corinthians"), where he declares his heart is "open wide" to them and urges them to reciprocate. The plea "Receive us" in [2 Corinthians 7:2](/2_corinthians/7-2 "Receive Us") serves as a direct continuation of this call for mutual affection and trust. The preceding chapter concludes with a strong exhortation against being "unequally yoked with unbelievers" ([2 Corinthians 6:14](/2_corinthians/6-14 "Do Not Be Unequally Yoked")), which, while seemingly a digression, undergirds the necessity of purity and integrity in the community, a standard Paul himself embodies. Chapter 7 then transitions into Paul's profound joy over Titus's report of the Corinthians' repentance and their renewed affection for him, demonstrating the positive outcome of this very reconciliation he seeks.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Corinthian church was a complex and often turbulent community, marked by internal divisions and external influences. Paul's apostolic authority had been challenged by rival teachers, often termed "super-apostles," who likely accused him of various shortcomings, including inconsistency, weakness, and financial impropriety ([2 Corinthians 11:5](/2_corinthians/11-5 "Paul's Defense Against Super-Apostles")). In the Greco-Roman world, itinerant philosophers and rhetoricians often sought personal gain or influence, and Paul's counter-cultural practice of not accepting financial support from the Corinthians was sometimes misunderstood or even used against him. His defense in [2 Corinthians](/2_corinthians "2 Corinthians - Paul's Defense of His Ministry") is therefore not merely a personal vindication but a crucial defense of the integrity of the Gospel message he proclaimed, demonstrating that his ministry was free from the self-serving motives of his detractors.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes in 2 Corinthians. First, it underscores **Apostolic Integrity**, as Paul vehemently defends his and his co-workers' conduct, emphasizing their blamelessness and freedom from any form of misconduct. This was crucial for maintaining his authority and the credibility of the Gospel message, which he saw as intrinsically linked to his character as a minister of the new covenant ([2 Corinthians 3:6](/2_corinthians/3-6 "Ministers of the New Covenant")). Second, it highlights the theme of **Trust and Reconciliation**, as Paul's appeal is a direct step towards full restoration of fellowship, built on transparency and a clear conscience. He desires a relationship where hearts are open and trust is reciprocal, a theme running through [2 Corinthians 2:5-11](/2_corinthians/2-5-11 "Forgiveness and Restoration"). Third, the specific denials ("wronged," "corrupted," "defrauded") strongly emphasize **Financial Purity in Ministry**, a recurring concern for Paul, who often worked with his own hands to avoid being a burden or appearing covetous ([1 Corinthians 9:18](/1_corinthians/9-18 "Paul's Refusal of Financial Support")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Receive (Greek, _chōréō'_):** From χώρα (chōra), meaning "space." This word implies "to make room for," "to give space to," or "to admit." Paul is not just asking for a superficial welcome, but for the Corinthians to open their hearts and minds to him, to make space for him in their affections and trust, allowing his ministry to have its proper place among them.
* **wronged (Greek, _adikéō'_):** From ἄδικος (adikos), meaning "unjust." This term signifies doing injustice, causing harm, or acting unfairly. Paul asserts that he has never acted unjustly or caused harm to anyone in the Corinthian church, whether through his actions or decisions.
* **corrupted (Greek, _phtheírō'_):** This word means "to spoil," "to ruin," or "to deprave." It carries a strong connotation of moral or spiritual decay. Paul denies having morally compromised anyone, led them astray through false teaching, or ruined their character by his influence.
* **defrauded (Greek, _pleonektéō'_):** From πλεονέκτης (pleonektēs), meaning "covetous." This term means "to be covetous," and by implication, "to over-reach," "to take advantage of," or "to exploit," often with a financial connotation. Paul vehemently denies any accusation of financial exploitation or seeking personal gain at their expense.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Receive us;":** This is an earnest plea from Paul and his companions (likely Timothy, Titus, and others) for the Corinthians to open their hearts and minds to them. It's a call for mutual affection, trust, and reconciliation, implying that there might have been a degree of alienation or suspicion that Paul wished to overcome. It echoes his earlier appeal in [2 Corinthians 6:13](/2_corinthians/6-13 "Open Your Hearts to Us").
* **"we have wronged no man,":** Paul asserts his innocence against any charge of injustice or unfair treatment. This covers any action that would have caused harm, injury, or moral offense to an individual within the community. It speaks to his ethical conduct and respect for their rights and well-being.
* **"we have corrupted no man,":** This denial addresses accusations of moral or spiritual defilement. Paul insists that he has not led anyone astray, spoiled their character, or introduced any teaching that would lead to moral decay or spiritual ruin. This is a crucial defense against those who might have accused him of undermining their faith or purity.
* **"we have defrauded no man.":** This final denial specifically targets accusations of exploitation or financial gain. Paul strongly affirms that he has not taken advantage of anyone, especially not for personal profit or through covetousness. This was a common charge against itinerant teachers in the ancient world, and Paul consistently defended his financial integrity, often by working to support himself ([1 Thessalonians 2:9](/1_thessalonians/2-9 "Paul's Labor for the Gospel")).

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs **Anaphora** in this verse, repeating the phrase "we have... no man" three times ("we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man"). This rhetorical device creates powerful emphasis and rhythm, underscoring the absolute nature of his denial and his blamelessness. The repetition serves to hammer home his point, leaving no room for ambiguity regarding his conduct. Furthermore, the use of **Tricolon** (a series of three parallel clauses) enhances the persuasive force of his argument, presenting a comprehensive and exhaustive list of potential misdeeds that he categorically refutes. This structure gives his defense a sense of completeness and conviction, aiming to fully restore trust and clear his name.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's emphatic denial of wrongdoing in 2 Corinthians 7:2 is not merely a personal defense but a profound theological statement about the integrity required of those who minister the Gospel. His blameless conduct is intrinsically linked to the purity of the message he proclaims, demonstrating that the new covenant ministry is characterized by sincerity, transparency, and a lack of self-serving motives. This commitment to integrity reflects the character of God Himself, who is just and righteous, and it serves as a foundation for genuine reconciliation within the body of Christ. The verse highlights that true spiritual authority is earned through consistent, ethical living, rather than through worldly power or cunning, thereby validating the divine origin and power of the message.

* [1 Thessalonians 2:3-6](/1_thessalonians/2-3-6 "Paul's Pure Motives in Ministry")
* [Acts 20:33-35](/acts/20-33-35 "Paul's Farewell to the Ephesian Elders")
* [Philippians 4:11-13](/philippians/4-11-13 "Paul's Contentment in All Circumstances")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's bold declaration of integrity in 2 Corinthians 7:2 offers profound lessons for believers today, both in personal conduct and in leadership. It challenges us to examine our own hearts and actions, ensuring that our relationships are marked by justice, purity, and generosity, rather than by exploitation or self-interest. For those in positions of influence, whether in the church, workplace, or family, Paul's example underscores the non-negotiable importance of being above reproach, particularly concerning financial dealings and moral influence. Living a life free from accusation, or at least one where accusations are demonstrably false, builds trust and credibility, allowing our words and witness to carry greater weight. When misunderstandings or conflicts arise, this verse also reminds us of the humility required to seek reconciliation, even while confidently defending our character if unjustly accused, always prioritizing the restoration of fellowship and the unity of the Spirit.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life might I unintentionally "wrong," "corrupt," or "defraud" others, even subtly?**
* **How does my personal integrity impact the credibility of my Christian witness to those around me?**
* **If I am in a position of leadership, how can I ensure transparency and blamelessness in my dealings, especially concerning finances and influence?**
* **What steps can I take to foster an environment of trust and openheartedness in my relationships, mirroring Paul's plea to the Corinthians?**

### FAQ
**Why was Paul so insistent on defending his character to the Corinthians?**

Answer: Paul's insistence on defending his character was not primarily for personal vindication, but for the sake of the Gospel itself. His apostolic authority and the message he proclaimed were being undermined by false teachers, often referred to as "super-apostles," who accused him of various misdeeds, including being inconsistent, weak, or financially exploitative. If the Corinthians lost trust in Paul's integrity, they might also question the truth and power of the Gospel he delivered. Therefore, defending his blameless conduct was essential to protect the purity of the message and to ensure the Corinthians' continued faithfulness to Christ, as seen throughout [2 Corinthians](/2_corinthians "2 Corinthians - Paul's Defense of His Ministry"). His defense was a deeply pastoral act aimed at restoring their relationship and securing their spiritual well-being.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 2 Corinthians 7:2 speaks to Paul's personal integrity as an apostle, its ultimate fulfillment and deepest significance are found in Christ. Paul's blamelessness, though remarkable and essential for his ministry, points to the perfect and absolute blamelessness of Jesus Christ, who truly "wronged no man, corrupted no man, and defrauded no man." Unlike any human leader, Jesus lived a life utterly without sin, fulfilling all righteousness ([Matthew 3:15](/matthew/3-15 "Jesus Fulfills All Righteousness")) and becoming the spotless Lamb of God ([John 1:29](/john/1-29 "Jesus, the Lamb of God")). His perfect integrity and purity were not merely a defense against accusations, but the very foundation of His atoning work, enabling Him to be the perfect sacrifice for our sins ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Jesus, Our Sinless High Priest")). In Christ, believers are not merely called to *strive* for blamelessness, but are declared righteous and holy in Him ([2 Corinthians 5:21](/2_corinthians/5-21 "Our Righteousness in Christ")), receiving a perfect standing before God that Paul himself, despite his best efforts, could only approximate. Thus, Paul's defense serves as a human echo of the divine perfection found in our Savior, who alone offers true and complete reconciliation and makes us truly blameless before God.

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

Acts 20:33

I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel.

2 Corinthians 11:9

And when I was present with you, and wanted, I was chargeable to no man: for that which was lacking to me the brethren which came from Macedonia supplied: and in all [things] I have kept myself from being burdensome unto you, and [so] will I keep [myself].

2 Corinthians 6:12

Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels.

2 Corinthians 6:13

Now for a recompence in the same, (I speak as unto [my] children,) be ye also enlarged.

1 Samuel 12:3

Behold, here I [am]: witness against me before the LORD, and before his anointed: whose ox have I taken? or whose ass have I taken? or whom have I defrauded? whom have I oppressed? or of whose hand have I received [any] bribe to blind mine eyes therewith? and I will restore it you.

1 Samuel 12:4

And they said, Thou hast not defrauded us, nor oppressed us, neither hast thou taken ought of any man's hand.

2 John 1:10

¶ If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into [your] house, neither bid him God speed: