◄ 2 Corinthians 6 ►
Book Sum People Lessons Que
Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Paul’s Hardships and God’s Grace 1As God’s fellow workers,a then, we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain. 2For He says: “In the time of favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.”b Behold, now is the time of favor; now is the day of salvation! 3We put no obstacle in anyone’s way, so that no one can discredit our ministry. 4Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships, and calamities; 5in beatings, imprisonments, and riots; in labor, sleepless nights, and hunger; 6in purity, knowledge, patience, and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love; 7in truthful speech and in the power of God; with the weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left; 8through glory and dishonor, slander and praise; viewed as imposters, yet genuine; 9unknown, yet well-known; dying, and yet we live on; punished, yet not killed; 10sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything. 11We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians. Our hearts are open wide. 12It is not our affection, but yours, that is restrained. 13As a fair exchange—I speak as to my children—open wide your hearts also. Do Not Be Unequally Yoked 14Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership can righteousness have with wickedness? Or what fellowship does light have with darkness? 15What harmony is there between Christ and Belial?c Or what does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? 16What agreement can exist between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will dwell with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be My people.”d 17“Therefore come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.”e 18And: “I will be a Father to you, and you will be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.”f Footnotes: 1 a Literally Now working together 2 b Isaiah 49:8 (see also LXX) 15 c Scrivener’s TR and PT; many Greek sources Beliar 16 d Leviticus 26:12; Jeremiah 32:38; Ezekiel 37:27 17 e Isaiah 52:11; see also Ezekiel 20:34, including LXX. 18 f See 2 Samuel 7:14. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 2 Corinthians 6 Summary Paul's Hardships and God's Grace Verses 1–2 – Urgent Appeal to Accept Grace Paul pleads that God’s favor not be wasted. “As God’s fellow workers we urge you, do not receive God’s grace in vain.” (6:1) He backs the plea with Isaiah 49:8: “In the time of favor I will answer you, and in the day of salvation I will help you.” Today is that day. Verses 3–10 – Paul’s Proven Ministry in Trials To remove any obstacle, Paul points to his team’s record: endurance in troubles, beatings, imprisonments, riots, hard work, sleepless nights, hunger. Yet they also show purity, knowledge, patience, kindness, Holy Spirit power, sincere love, truthful speech. They are “sorrowful, yet always rejoicing… having nothing, and yet possessing everything.” (6:10) Verses 11–13 – Open Hearts Required “Corinthians, our heart is open wide.” (6:11) Their love is not restricted, but the Corinthians’ love is. Paul urges them to widen their hearts in return, restoring full fellowship. Verses 14–18 – Call to Separation and Promise of Adoption “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers.” (6:14) Righteousness and wickedness cannot partner; light and darkness cannot share. “For we are the temple of the living God.” (6:16) God promises, “Come out from among them and be separate… I will be a Father to you, and you will be My sons and daughters.” (6:17–18) In 2 Corinthians 6, Paul implores the Corinthians not to receive God's grace in vain. He emphasizes the hardships he and his fellow workers have endured as ministers of God, reinforcing the urgency and sincerity of their message. He concludes with a powerful call to holiness, urging the believers not to form inappropriate bonds with unbelievers. Historical Setting • Corinth, a bustling port linking east and west, overflowed with trade, ideas, and idols. Temples to Aphrodite, Apollo, and Asclepius dotted the city. • Paul founded the church around A.D. 50 (Acts 18). By the time of 2 Corinthians (A.D. 55–56), false teachers were challenging his authority and downplaying suffering as a sign of weakness. • Paul counters by turning hardship into proof of authenticity—suffering shows he follows the crucified and risen Lord. Ministry Under Pressure Verses 4-10 stack nine troubles, six hardships, three contrasts, and nine pairs of seeming opposites. The rhythm sounds like a soldier’s march, underscoring resilience. Hardships listed: 1. Troubles 2. Hardships 3. Calamities 4. Beatings 5. Imprisonments 6. Riots 7. Hard work 8. Sleepless nights 9. Hunger Qualities displayed: purity, knowledge, patience, kindness, Holy Spirit power, sincere love, truthful speech, God’s power, “weapons of righteousness” in both hands—an image of a soldier equally skilled left or right. “Now” – The Urgency of the Gospel Paul seizes Isaiah 49:8 to show that the prophesied season of salvation has dawned in Christ. Compare: • Luke 4:19 — Jesus announces “the year of the Lord’s favor.” • Hebrews 3:7-15 — Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts. Delay risks losing the offer; grace is never given for tomorrow. Open Hearts and Healthy Fellowship Paul’s transparent affection models Jesus’ own self-giving love (John 13:34). Church unity grows when: • Leaders speak frankly yet lovingly (Ephesians 4:15). • Members respond with open hearts (Philippians 1:7-8). Lack of affection starves a fellowship even when doctrine is sound. Unequally Yoked – Background • The term recalls Deuteronomy 22:10, where an ox and donkey not be yoked together—different gait, strength, temper. • In Paul’s day, trade guilds honored patron gods. Joining the guild meant honoring the idol. Believers had to weigh livelihood against loyalty to Christ. • The call is not isolation but wise boundaries: partnership that forces compromise on clear faith issues is off-limits. See 1 Corinthians 10:21; James 4:4. Temple of the Living God Paul strings together promises from Leviticus 26:12, Isaiah 52:11, Ezekiel 37:27, and 2 Samuel 7:14. Key ideas: • God dwells among His people. • Purity maintains that nearness. • Adoption language—“sons and daughters”—amplifies earlier “children of God” (John 1:12; Romans 8:15-17). Archaeological Notes • Yokes carved from hardwood with iron fittings have been unearthed near first-century Jericho, illustrating Paul’s metaphor. • In Corinth the Temple of Apollo still displayed bronze statues in Paul’s day. Worshipers offered incense and feasts—a vivid backdrop to “come out… and be separate.” • Greek contracts on papyrus found in Oxyrhynchus show business partnerships sealed by oaths to pagan deities, matching Paul’s warning about binding agreements with unbelievers. Connections to Other Scriptures • 2 Corinthians 1:6 — Suffering produces comfort in others. • Matthew 5:11-12 — Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness. • 1 Peter 2:11 — Abstain from passions that wage war against the soul. • Revelation 18:4 — “Come out of her, My people,” a future echo of the separation call. Practical Application for Modern Believers • Receive grace actively: believe, obey, serve—grace unused is grace lost. • Expect hardship as normal, not abnormal; respond with purity and joy. • Keep relationships open: honesty without bitterness, love without manipulation. • Evaluate partnerships—business, romance, organizations—by whether they force you to compromise clear biblical convictions. • Live as God’s living temple: worship that honors Christ, conduct that matches sacred status, community that shows family resemblance to the Father. Outline for Teaching or Personal Study 1. Grace Offered (6:1-2) 2. Ministry Tested (6:3-10) 3. Affection Shared (6:11-13) 4. Separation and Adoption (6:14-18) Each movement builds on the last: grace received fuels service; service validated opens hearts; open hearts embrace holiness; holiness secures deeper fellowship with the Father. Key Takeaway Today is the decisive moment. Grab hold of God’s grace, walk through trials with integrity, love wide-open, and keep your life free from ties that choke faith. The Father’s arms are wide, and His house is waiting. Connections to Additional Scriptures Isaiah 49:8 This Old Testament prophecy is echoed in 2 Corinthians 6:2, emphasizing God's promise of salvation and favor. Romans 12:2 Encourages believers to be transformed by the renewing of their minds, aligning with the call to holiness in 2 Corinthians 6:14. 1 Peter 2:9 Reinforces the identity of believers as a chosen people, called to declare God's praises, similar to the call in 2 Corinthians 6. Teaching Points The Ministry of Reconciliation Paul emphasizes the urgency of accepting God's grace, stating, For He says: 'In the time of favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.' Behold, now is the time of favor; now is the day of salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2). This highlights the immediacy of responding to God's call. Endurance in Trials Paul lists various hardships faced in ministry, including in troubles, hardships, and calamities; in beatings, imprisonments, and riots; in labor, sleepless nights, and hunger (2 Corinthians 6:4-5). These trials are met with perseverance, demonstrating the strength found in Christ. Characteristics of a Godly Life The passage outlines virtues such as purity, knowledge, patience, and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love (2 Corinthians 6:6). These qualities are essential for effective ministry and personal holiness. The Call to Holiness Paul urges believers to separate themselves from worldly influences, stating, Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership can righteousness have with wickedness? (2 Corinthians 6:14). This call to holiness is a reminder of our identity as God's people. Practical Applications Embrace the Present Opportunity Recognize the urgency of sharing the gospel and living out your faith today, as now is the time of favor; now is the day of salvation (2 Corinthians 6:2). Persevere Through Challenges Draw strength from God to endure trials and hardships, knowing that they refine your character and witness. Cultivate Godly Virtues Actively pursue purity, knowledge, patience, and kindness in your interactions with others, relying on the Holy Spirit for guidance. Live a Set-Apart Life Evaluate your relationships and influences, ensuring they align with your commitment to Christ and His righteousness. People 1. Paul The author of the letter, an apostle of Jesus Christ. He speaks of his ministry and the hardships he endures for the sake of the Gospel. Paul emphasizes his role as a servant of God, enduring trials and maintaining integrity. 2. God Referred to as the one whom Paul and his companions serve. Paul speaks of being "workers together with God" (2 Corinthians 6:1), highlighting the divine partnership in the ministry. 3. Jesus Christ Implicitly referenced as the one whose grace should not be received in vain (2 Corinthians 6:1). Paul’s ministry is centered on the message of Christ. 4. The Corinthians The recipients of the letter, whom Paul addresses directly. He urges them not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers and to live a life set apart for God. 5. Unbelievers Mentioned in the context of being unequally yoked with believers (2 Corinthians 6:14). Paul warns against forming partnerships that compromise Christian values. 6. Belial A term used to refer to worthlessness or wickedness, often personified as a representation of evil. Paul contrasts the righteousness of believers with the lawlessness associated with Belial (2 Corinthians 6:15). 7. The Living God Paul quotes from the Old Testament, referring to God as the one who dwells among His people and walks among them (2 Corinthians 6:16). This emphasizes the intimate relationship between God and His followers. In this chapter, Paul draws on his Jewish heritage and the Greek understanding of the terms to communicate the importance of holiness and separation from worldly influences. The original Greek terms, such as "Belial" (Βελίαλ), carry connotations of worthlessness and opposition to God, underscoring the spiritual dichotomy Paul presents. Places 1. The Day of Salvation Paul refers to "the day of salvation" (2 Corinthians 6:2), quoting from Isaiah 49:8. This "place" is a time or state of divine favor and opportunity for reconciliation with God. The Greek word for "salvation" here is "σωτηρία" (sōtēria), emphasizing deliverance and preservation. 2. The Temple of the Living God In verses 16-18, Paul speaks of believers as "the temple of the living God." This metaphorical place signifies the indwelling presence of God among His people. The Greek word for "temple" is "ναός" (naos), indicating the inner sanctuary, emphasizing holiness and separation from the world. 3. A Place of Endurance Paul describes various hardships and trials in verses 4-5, such as "in troubles, hardships, and calamities" (2 Corinthians 6:4). This "place" is one of perseverance and steadfastness in the face of adversity, reflecting the Greek concept of "ὑπομονή" (hypomonē), meaning endurance or patience. 4. A Place of Purity and Knowledge In verse 6, Paul mentions "in purity, knowledge, patience, and kindness" (2 Corinthians 6:6). This "place" is characterized by virtues that reflect the character of Christ. The Greek word for "purity" is "ἁγνότης" (hagnótēs), denoting moral cleanliness and sincerity. 5. A Place of Righteousness Paul speaks of being "in the right hand and in the left" with "weapons of righteousness" (2 Corinthians 6:7). This "place" involves spiritual warfare and living in accordance with God's standards. The Greek word for "righteousness" is "δικαιοσύνη" (dikaiosynē), emphasizing justice and moral integrity. Events 1. Paul's Appeal for Reconciliation (2 Corinthians 6:1-2) Paul urges the Corinthians not to receive God's grace in vain, quoting Isaiah 49:8 to emphasize the urgency of salvation: "In the time of favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you." The Greek word for "favor" (δεκτός, dektos) implies an acceptable or welcome time, highlighting the immediacy of God's offer. 2. Paul's Endurance in Ministry (2 Corinthians 6:3-10) Paul describes the hardships and virtues of his ministry, ensuring that no fault is found in their service. He lists afflictions, hardships, and distresses, alongside purity, knowledge, patience, and kindness. The Greek term for "patience" (ὑπομονή, hypomonē) suggests steadfastness and endurance under trial. 3. Contrasts in Paul's Experience (2 Corinthians 6:8-10) Paul presents a series of paradoxes, such as being "sorrowful, yet always rejoicing" and "poor, yet making many rich." These contrasts highlight the spiritual richness and joy found in Christ despite physical or worldly circumstances. 4. Call to Holiness and Separation (2 Corinthians 6:14-18) Paul instructs believers not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers, using the metaphor of a yoke to describe partnerships. The Greek word for "unequally yoked" (ἑτεροζυγέω, heterozygeō) refers to mismatched or incompatible pairings. He emphasizes the need for separation from unrighteousness, quoting Old Testament promises of God dwelling among His people. Lessons from 2 Corinthians 6 1. Embrace the Ministry of Reconciliation In 2 Corinthians 6, Paul reminds us of our role as ambassadors for Christ, urging us to embrace the ministry of reconciliation. "As God’s fellow workers, we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain" (2 Corinthians 6:1). This is a call to action, encouraging us to actively share the message of salvation and reconciliation with others. By doing so, we fulfill our purpose and bring glory to God. 2. Live as Servants of God Paul sets a high standard for living as servants of God, emphasizing the importance of integrity and perseverance. "In purity, knowledge, patience, and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love" (2 Corinthians 6:6). These qualities are not just ideals but practical attributes we can cultivate daily. By embodying these virtues, we reflect Christ's character and draw others to Him. 3. Endure Hardships with Grace Life is full of challenges, but Paul encourages us to endure hardships with grace. "In troubles, hardships, and calamities; in beatings, imprisonments, and riots" (2 Corinthians 6:4-5). These trials are opportunities to demonstrate our faith and reliance on God. By trusting in His strength, we can overcome any obstacle and inspire others with our resilience. 4. Maintain a Pure Heart Purity is a recurring theme in Scripture, and Paul highlights its importance in our walk with God. "In purity, knowledge, patience, and kindness" (2 Corinthians 6:6). A pure heart is essential for maintaining a close relationship with God and effectively ministering to others. By guarding our hearts and minds, we can stay focused on His will and avoid the distractions of the world. 5. Rely on the Power of the Holy Spirit Paul reminds us that we are not alone in our journey; the Holy Spirit empowers us. "In the Holy Spirit and in sincere love" (2 Corinthians 6:6). The Spirit provides the strength and wisdom we need to navigate life's challenges and fulfill our calling. By relying on His guidance, we can confidently share the gospel and live out our faith. 6. Demonstrate Sincere Love Love is the foundation of our faith, and Paul emphasizes the importance of demonstrating sincere love. "In the Holy Spirit and in sincere love" (2 Corinthians 6:6). This love should be genuine and selfless, reflecting Christ's love for us. By loving others unconditionally, we can break down barriers and build meaningful relationships that point to Jesus. 7. Speak Truthfully and Boldly Paul encourages us to speak truthfully and boldly, even in the face of opposition. "In truthful speech and in the power of God" (2 Corinthians 6:7). Our words have the power to influence and inspire, so it's crucial to communicate the truth of the gospel with confidence. By doing so, we can effectively share the hope and salvation found in Christ. 8. Recognize the Paradoxes of Faith The Christian life is full of paradoxes, and Paul highlights these in 2 Corinthians 6. "As sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich" (2 Corinthians 6:10). These contradictions remind us that our faith transcends worldly understanding. By embracing these paradoxes, we can find joy and purpose in every circumstance. 9. Avoid Unequal Yoking Paul warns against forming partnerships that compromise our faith. "Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers" (2 Corinthians 6:14). This principle applies to all areas of life, from relationships to business dealings. By aligning ourselves with those who share our values, we can maintain our integrity and stay true to our calling. 10. Pursue Holiness Finally, Paul calls us to pursue holiness, setting ourselves apart for God's purposes. "Let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God" (2 Corinthians 7:1). Holiness is not about perfection but about dedication to God. By striving for holiness, we honor Him and become effective witnesses to the world. Topics 1. The Ministry of Reconciliation (2 Corinthians 6:1-2) Paul urges the Corinthians not to receive God's grace in vain, emphasizing the urgency of salvation. He quotes Isaiah 49:8, "In the time of favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you." The Greek word for "favor" (δεκτός, dektos) implies an acceptable or welcome time, highlighting the present opportunity for salvation. 2. Paul's Endurance in Ministry (2 Corinthians 6:3-10) Paul describes the hardships and virtues of his ministry, ensuring that no fault is found in their service. He lists various trials and virtues, such as "in purity, knowledge, patience, and kindness" (v. 6). The Greek word for "patience" (ὑπομονή, hypomonē) suggests steadfastness and endurance under trials. 3. Call to Holiness and Separation (2 Corinthians 6:14-18) Paul instructs believers not to be "unequally yoked with unbelievers" (v. 14), using the metaphor of a yoke to describe partnerships that are mismatched. The Greek term for "unequally yoked" (ἑτεροζυγέω, heterozygeō) implies an imbalance or incompatibility. He emphasizes the need for separation from unrighteousness and idolatry, promising that God will dwell among them as their Father. Themes 1. Endurance in Ministry Paul emphasizes the importance of enduring hardships for the sake of the Gospel. He lists various trials and challenges faced in ministry, highlighting the need for perseverance. ^“Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships, and calamities;”^ (2 Corinthians 6:4). The Greek word for "endurance" (ὑπομονή, hypomonē) conveys a sense of steadfastness and perseverance under trial. 2. Purity and Righteousness The call to live a life of purity and righteousness is evident, as Paul describes the qualities and virtues that should characterize believers. ^“in purity, knowledge, patience, and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love;”^ (2 Corinthians 6:6). The Greek term for "purity" (ἁγνότης, hagnótēs) refers to moral cleanliness and integrity. 3. Spiritual Warfare Paul acknowledges the spiritual battle involved in ministry, using the metaphor of weapons of righteousness. ^“in truthful speech and in the power of God; with the weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left;”^ (2 Corinthians 6:7). The concept of "weapons" (ὅπλα, hopla) in Greek suggests tools or instruments used for spiritual defense and offense. 4. Paradoxes of the Christian Life The Christian life is marked by paradoxes, as Paul describes contrasting experiences that believers may face. ^“through glory and dishonor, slander and praise; viewed as imposters, yet genuine;”^ (2 Corinthians 6:8). These paradoxes highlight the tension between earthly perceptions and spiritual realities. 5. Call to Holiness and Separation Paul urges believers to separate themselves from worldly influences and to pursue holiness. ^“Therefore come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.”^ (2 Corinthians 6:17). The Greek word for "separate" (ἀφορίζω, aphorizō) implies setting apart for a sacred purpose. 6. God’s Promises and Fatherhood The assurance of God’s promises and His role as a Father to believers is emphasized, providing comfort and motivation for holy living. ^“And I will be a Father to you, and you will be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.”^ (2 Corinthians 6:18). The relational aspect of God as "Father" (πατήρ, patēr) underscores the intimate and personal relationship believers have with Him. Prayer Points Pray for a sense of urgency in sharing the gospel and living out your faith daily. Ask for strength and perseverance to endure trials and challenges with grace. Seek the Holy Spirit's guidance in cultivating godly virtues in your life. Pray for discernment in relationships and influences, striving to live a life set apart for God's glory. Answering Tough Questions 1. In 2 Corinthians 6:14, how can “not being yoked to unbelievers” avoid promoting division or discrimination in society? 2. In 2 Corinthians 6:15, is the reference to Belial rooted in any historical or archaeological evidence, or does it rely purely on religious tradition? 3. How does Paul’s appeal in 2 Corinthians 6 conflict with other biblical commands to interact with non-believers (e.g., Luke 7:34, Acts 10)? 4. Are there any historical documents outside the Bible that corroborate Paul’s account of hardship in 2 Corinthians 6:4–5? 5. In 2 Corinthians 6:16, how can the believers be the temple of God without any tangible, verifiable sign beyond personal conviction? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does it mean to receive God's grace in vain? 2. How does Paul describe his trials and triumphs in ministry? 3. How do Paul's hardships in verses 3-10 relate to your own experiences? 4. What can we learn from Paul's attitude towards suffering? 5. How can you apply Paul's appeal for open-hearted love in your life? 6. How does Paul's affection for the Corinthians model Christ's love for us? 7. What does it mean to be unequally yoked with unbelievers? 8. How do the images of righteousness and wickedness, light and darkness, resonate with you? 9. How can we ensure we're not being 'unequally yoked' in our personal relationships? 10. What practical steps can you take to purify yourself and strive for holiness? 11. What does the call to 'come out from them and be separate' mean in today's context? 12. How does the promise of God's fatherhood inspire you to live in purity and holiness? 13. How can we balance the call to separate ourselves from worldly influences with the call to love and serve the world? 14. What does the phrase 'the day of salvation' mean to you? 15. How can you demonstrate integrity and authenticity in your personal life as Paul did in his ministry? 16. What does this chapter teach about the relationship between God’s grace and our response? 17. How does Paul’s sincere and loving approach towards the Corinthians influence your understanding of Christian ministry? 18. How does the promise of being God’s sons and daughters affect your identity? 19. How does the idea of being a temple of the living God shape your daily life? 20. What actions can you take today to live out the truths of this chapter in your daily life? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions