This is the third time I am coming to you. "Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses." This is the third timeThe Apostle Paul begins this verse by emphasizing the number of visits he has made to the Corinthian church. The Greek word for "third" is "tritos," which underscores the importance of repeated efforts and the seriousness with which Paul approaches the issues in Corinth. Historically, this reflects Paul's dedication and pastoral concern for the church, as he is willing to make multiple journeys to address their spiritual needs and correct their errors. I am coming to you Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses Persons / Places / Events 1. Paul the ApostleThe author of the letter, addressing the Corinthian church. He is preparing for his third visit to Corinth. 2. Corinth A major city in ancient Greece, known for its wealth and moral challenges. The church in Corinth faced various issues, including divisions and moral lapses. 3. Corinthian Church The recipients of Paul's letter, a community of believers struggling with internal conflicts and the need for spiritual discipline. 4. Witnesses Refers to the principle of establishing truth through multiple testimonies, rooted in Jewish law. 5. Paul's Previous Visits Paul's earlier visits to Corinth, which were marked by both teaching and addressing issues within the church. Teaching Points The Importance of AccountabilityPaul emphasizes the need for accountability within the church. Just as in legal matters, spiritual issues should be addressed with careful consideration and corroboration. The Role of Community in Truth The principle of two or three witnesses highlights the communal aspect of discerning truth. Believers are called to support one another in maintaining integrity and righteousness. Preparation for Correction Paul’s mention of his third visit serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared to address issues within the church. Leaders and members alike should be ready to confront sin with love and truth. Consistency in Leadership Paul’s consistent approach to visiting and addressing the Corinthian church demonstrates the importance of steadfast leadership. Leaders should be persistent in guiding their communities towards spiritual maturity. Biblical Foundations for Church Discipline The reference to witnesses provides a biblical foundation for church discipline, ensuring that actions are taken justly and with proper evidence. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the principle of requiring two or three witnesses apply to modern church practices, especially in matters of discipline?2. In what ways can we ensure accountability within our own church communities, following Paul’s example? 3. How can the concept of communal truth-seeking be applied in resolving conflicts within the church today? 4. What steps can we take to prepare ourselves for addressing issues of sin and division in our church, as Paul prepared for his visits to Corinth? 5. How do other scriptures, such as those in Deuteronomy and Matthew, reinforce the teachings found in 2 Corinthians 13:1 regarding truth and accountability? Connections to Other Scriptures Deuteronomy 19:15This Old Testament law establishes the principle of requiring two or three witnesses to confirm a matter, which Paul references to emphasize the need for accountability and truth. Matthew 18:16 Jesus reiterates the principle of two or three witnesses in the context of church discipline, highlighting its continued relevance in the New Testament. 1 Timothy 5:19 Paul advises Timothy on the importance of not entertaining accusations against an elder without two or three witnesses, underscoring the need for fairness and due process.
People Corinthians, PaulPlaces Achaia, CorinthTopics Charge, Confirmed, Established, Evidence, Fact, Intended, Matter, Mouth, Saying, Sustained, Testimony, Third, Visit, WitnessesDictionary of Bible Themes 2 Corinthians 13:1 1656 numbers, combinations Library Self-ExaminationThe Corinthians were the critics of the apostles' age. They took to themselves great credit for skill in learning and in language, and as most men do who are wise in their own esteem, they made a wrong use of their wisdom and learning--they began to criticise the apostle Paul. They criticised his style. "His letters," say they, "are weighty and powerful, but his bodily presence is weak and his speech contemptible." Nay, not content with that, they went so far as to deny his apostleship, and for once … Charles Haddon Spurgeon—Spurgeon's Sermons Volume 4: 1858 How to Use the Prayer-Book "And if Christ be in You, the Body is Dead Because Sin," Sermon. Reprobation. On Being Filled with the Spirit The Clergyman and the Prayer Book. The Greatest of These is Love. Of the Character of the Unregenerate. The Third Wall. Concerning the Scriptures. Assurance of Salvation. Testimonies. The Christian's Peace and the Christian's Consistency Concerning the Ministry. Concerning Perfection. Reprobation Asserted: Or, the Doctrine of Eternal Election and Reprobation Promiscuously Handled, in Eleven Chapters. Links 2 Corinthians 13:1 NIV2 Corinthians 13:1 NLT 2 Corinthians 13:1 ESV 2 Corinthians 13:1 NASB 2 Corinthians 13:1 KJV 2 Corinthians 13:1 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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