2 Corinthians13

Paul announces his third visit to Corinth, warning that he will not spare those who remain unrepentant, and challenges them to examine their own faith to see if Christ is truly in them. He emphasizes that his apostolic power is for edification, not destruction, and expresses his desire for their spiritual perfection. The chapter concludes with a powerful Trinitarian benediction.
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Final Warning and Apostolic Authority

1
This is the third time I am coming to you. “Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.” ​
2
I already warned you the second time I was with you. So now in my absence I warn those who sinned earlier and everyone else: If I return, I will not spare anyone,
3
since you are demanding proof that Christ is speaking through me. He is not weak in dealing with you, but is powerful among you. ​
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For He was indeed crucified in weakness, yet He lives by God’s power. And though we are weak in Him, yet by God’s power we will live with Him to serve you. ​

Test Yourselves

5
Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Can’t you see for yourselves that Jesus Christ is in you—unless you actually fail the test? ​
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And I hope you will realize that we have not failed the test.
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Now we pray to God that you will not do anything wrong—not that we will appear to have stood the test, but that you will do what is right, even if we appear to have failed.
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For we cannot do anything against the truth, but only for the truth. ​
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In fact, we rejoice when we are weak but you are strong, and our prayer is for your perfection.
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This is why I write these things while absent, so that when I am present I will not need to be severe in my use of the authority that the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down. ​

Final Exhortations and Benediction

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Finally, brothers, rejoice! Aim for perfect harmony, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. ​
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Greet one another with a holy kiss.
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All the saints send you greetings.
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The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with all of you. ​

Study Notes for 2 Corinthians 13

Verse 1

This is the third time Paul planned to visit Corinth, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. He quotes Deuteronomy 19:15, applying the legal principle of requiring multiple witnesses to establish truth, justifying his firmness in dealing with ongoing sin.

Verse 3

The Corinthians were demanding 'proof' that Christ truly spoke through Paul, likely due to the influence of rival teachers. Paul warns that if they force him to exercise sharp discipline, the proof will be undeniable.

Verse 4

Paul parallels his ministry with Christ's humiliation and exaltation. Christ was crucified in 'weakness' but resurrected by 'power'; similarly, Paul ministers in apparent weakness, but his authority will be demonstrated by God’s power upon his arrival.

Verse 5

Paul commands the Corinthians to stop testing his authority and instead test their own spiritual standing and faith. A 'reprobate' (adokimos) is one who fails the test, is found wanting, or is counterfeit—a severe warning concerning their salvation.

Verse 8

Paul clarifies the nature of his apostolic power: it is defensive and constructive. He cannot use it arbitrarily or against the truth of the gospel, only in support and defense of righteous behavior.

Verse 10

Paul explains that his sharp writing serves a preventative purpose. He hopes the letter will prompt repentance, allowing him to use his God-given authority for 'edification' (building up) rather than harsh 'destruction' (discipline) when he arrives.

Verse 11

Paul delivers a final series of commands focusing on unity and maturity: 'Be perfect' (strive for completeness/maturity), 'be of good comfort' (encourage one another), and 'be of one mind' (pursue doctrinal and relational harmony).

Verse 14

This verse contains the famous Trinitarian benediction, the most explicit statement of the three persons of the Godhead in Paul's letters. It summarizes the gifts received through each person: grace (Christ), love (God the Father), and fellowship (Holy Spirit).

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