◄ 2 Corinthians 13 ►
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Examine Yourselves 1This is the third time I am coming to you. “Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.”a 2I 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, 3since you are demanding proof that Christ is speaking through me. He is not weak in dealing with you but is powerful among you. 4For He was indeed crucified in weakness, yet He lives by God’s power. For we are also weak in Him, yet by God’s power we will live with Him concerning you. 5Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Jesus Christ is in you—unless you fail the test? 6And I hope you will realize that we have not failed the test. 7Now 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. 8For we cannot do anything against the truth, but only for the truth. 9In fact, we rejoice when we are weak but you are strong, and our prayer is for your perfection. 10This 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. Benediction and Farewell 11Finally, brothers, rejoice! Aim for perfect harmony, encourage one another,b be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. 12Greet one another with a holy kiss. 13All the saints send you greetings. 14The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with all of you.c Footnotes: 1 a Deuteronomy 19:15 11 b Or listen to my appeal 14 c Texts vary in verse numbering for the last three verses of this chapter. BYZ ends with Amen. 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 13 Summary Examine Yourselves Verses 1–4 – Coming With Authority and Power Paul announces his third visit and reminds the Corinthians, “Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses” (v. 1). He warns that unrepentant sinners will face firm discipline. The Corinthians want proof that Christ speaks through him; Paul responds that Christ, though “crucified in weakness,” now lives “by God’s power” (v. 4). That same power will work through Paul when he arrives. Verses 5–10 – Call to Self-Examination and Restoration Instead of testing Paul, the believers must test themselves: “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith” (v. 5). Paul desires their growth, not his own vindication. He prays they choose what is right so his authority can build them up, not tear them down (v. 10). Verses 11–14 – Closing Exhortations and Blessing Paul wraps up with rapid-fire commands: rejoice, aim for maturity, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace (v. 11). A holy kiss and greetings from other believers (vv. 12–13) underscore unity. Finally, he speaks a threefold blessing: “the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit” (v. 14). 2 Corinthians 13 concludes Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians with a final warning, an urging for self-examination, and a prayer for their spiritual maturity. Paul emphasizes his authority and the potential severity of his upcoming visit while also expressing his deep love and concern for the Corinthians. The chapter closes with the renowned trinitarian blessing, encapsulating the grace, love, and fellowship of the Godhead. Historical Setting Corinth was a bustling port, famous for trade, wealth, and moral looseness. The church Paul planted (Acts 18) struggled with factions, immorality, and doubts about Paul’s authority. Second Corinthians is part of a lengthy back-and-forth that included a painful visit (2 Corinthians 2:1), a severe letter (2:4), and now plans for a third trip (13:1). Paul’s Three Visits to Corinth 1. AD 50-52: Founding visit during his second missionary journey (Acts 18). 2. AD 55: A short, painful visit (2 Corinthians 2:1). 3. AD 56-57: The coming visit mentioned here. Archaeological finds—such as the Erastus inscription in Corinth—confirm the city’s political names and timing, supporting the timeline in Acts and the letters. “Two or Three Witnesses” – Legal Backdrop • Deuteronomy 19:15 required multiple witnesses before judgment. • Jesus used the rule in church discipline (Matthew 18:16). • Paul applies it to church correction (1 Timothy 5:19). By invoking this standard, Paul assures the church that any action he takes will be fair and scriptural. Apostolic Authority and the Power of Christ Paul’s firmness flows from Christ’s own pattern: “He was crucified in weakness, yet He lives by God’s power” (v. 4). Compare: • 1 Corinthians 1:25 – God’s weakness is stronger than human strength. • Philippians 2:8-11 – Humility followed by exaltation. Paul’s “weak” appearance masks the risen Christ’s strength working through him. Weakness and Strength – A Paradox to Embrace Believers often feel frail, yet God’s power is perfected in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9). The pattern holds: crucifixion precedes resurrection, humility precedes honor, self-denial precedes spiritual impact. Testing the Faith – Practical Steps 1. Compare one’s life with Scripture (James 1:22-25). 2. Look for the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). 3. Confess known sin (1 John 1:9). 4. Seek honest feedback from mature believers (Proverbs 27:6). Passing the test is not sinless perfection; it is clear evidence that Christ lives in us and is changing us. Building Up, Not Tearing Down Verse 10 reminds leaders of the goal of authority: construction, not demolition. • 1 Thessalonians 5:11 – “Encourage one another and build each other up.” • Ephesians 4:29 – Words should give grace to those who hear. Discipline, when needed, aims at restoration, never humiliation. Final Words and Ancient Customs • “Holy kiss” (v. 12) was a common early-church greeting, signifying family affection and equality in Christ (see Romans 16:16; 1 Peter 5:14). • Sending greetings (v. 13) linked scattered believers, creating a sense of worldwide fellowship. Early Glimpse of the Trinity The benediction (v. 14) places Jesus, God the Father, and the Holy Spirit side by side, each sharing in blessing the church. Similar triune patterns: • Matthew 28:19 – baptized “in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” • 1 Peter 1:2 – chosen by the Father, sanctified by the Spirit, sprinkled with the Son’s blood. Such verses show the early church recognizing the cooperative work of the three divine persons. Archaeological Notes • The bema (judgment seat) uncovered in Corinth matches Acts 18:12-17, where Gallio judged Paul. • Inscriptions confirm the title “proconsul,” lending accuracy to Luke’s and Paul’s records. • Remains of first-century homes with dining rooms large enough for meetings fit Paul’s description of house-church gatherings (1 Corinthians 16:19). Scripture Connections • Self-examination – Lamentations 3:40; Psalm 139:23-24. • Rejoice always – Philippians 4:4. • Unity and peace – John 17:21; Ephesians 4:3. • Strength in weakness – Judges 7 (Gideon), Hebrews 11:34. Pastoral Lessons • Confront sin lovingly but firmly, using clear evidence. • Encourage believers to look inward before accusing others. • Exercise authority to heal, not hurt. • Keep joy, unity, and peace central in the congregation. • End every endeavor with a reminder of God’s grace, love, and Spirit-given partnership. Personal Reflection and Discipleship Paul’s final words push each follower of Jesus to: • Keep short accounts with God and people. • Celebrate growth in others even when it costs us. • Stay approachable and warm—holy kisses and sincere greetings still matter, even if expressed in culturally suitable ways. • Walk daily in the grace of Christ, the love of the Father, and Spirit-filled fellowship. Connections to Additional Scriptures Self-Examination Psalm 139:23-24 - Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Power in Weakness 2 Corinthians 12:9 - But He said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.' Unity and Peace Ephesians 4:3 - Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. Teaching Points Paul's Warning and Authority Paul begins by warning the Corinthians of his impending visit and the authority he holds as an apostle of Christ. He emphasizes that he will not spare those who continue in sin (2 Corinthians 13:1-2). Call to Self-Examination Paul urges the Corinthians to examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves (2 Corinthians 13:5). This call to introspection is crucial for spiritual growth and authenticity. Christ's Power in Weakness Paul highlights that although Christ was crucified in weakness, He lives by the power of God. Similarly, believers are called to embrace their weaknesses, knowing that God's power is made perfect in them (2 Corinthians 13:4). Paul's Desire for Restoration Despite his stern warnings, Paul's ultimate desire is for the Corinthians' restoration and spiritual maturity (2 Corinthians 13:9-10). Final Exhortations Paul concludes with exhortations for the Corinthians to rejoice, strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, and live in peace (2 Corinthians 13:11). Practical Applications Regular Self-Examination Make it a habit to regularly examine your faith and actions to ensure they align with the teachings of Christ. Embrace Weakness Recognize that your weaknesses are opportunities for God's power to be displayed in your life. Seek Restoration Actively pursue reconciliation and restoration in your relationships with others, reflecting the love and grace of Christ. Foster Unity and Peace Strive to live in harmony with fellow believers, promoting unity and peace within your community. People 1. Paul Paul is the author of the letter. In 2 Corinthians 13, he is addressing the Corinthian church, expressing his concerns and intentions for his upcoming visit. He emphasizes his authority as an apostle and his desire for the Corinthians to live in truth and righteousness. The Greek root of his name, Παῦλος (Paulos), means "small" or "humble." 2. Christ Jesus Jesus Christ is central to Paul's message. In verse 5, Paul urges the Corinthians to examine themselves to see whether they are in the faith, stating, "Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you?" This highlights the indwelling presence of Christ in believers. The Greek name Ἰησοῦς Χριστός (Iēsous Christos) reflects Jesus as the "Anointed One" or "Messiah." 3. The Corinthians The recipients of the letter, the members of the church in Corinth, are addressed throughout the chapter. Paul is concerned about their spiritual state and urges them to test themselves and live according to the faith. The Greek term for Corinthians is Κορίνθιοι (Korinthioi), referring to the inhabitants of Corinth. 4. God God is referenced as the ultimate authority and source of truth. In verse 4, Paul speaks of Jesus being crucified in weakness but living by the power of God, indicating the divine power at work in believers. The Greek word for God is Θεός (Theos). Places 1. Corinth The primary audience of the letter, Corinth was a major city in ancient Greece known for its commerce and diverse population. Paul had established a church there during his missionary journeys. The issues addressed in 2 Corinthians reflect the challenges faced by the Corinthian believers. 2. Macedonia While not mentioned directly in chapter 13, Macedonia is relevant as Paul wrote parts of 2 Corinthians while in Macedonia (2 Corinthians 7:5). This region in northern Greece was significant in Paul's ministry, with churches in cities like Philippi and Thessalonica. 3. Jerusalem Although not directly referenced in chapter 13, Jerusalem is significant in the context of Paul's collection for the saints, which is a theme in 2 Corinthians. The church in Jerusalem was experiencing poverty, and Paul was organizing a collection from Gentile churches to support them. Events 1. Paul's Third Visit Warning Paul begins by stating his intention to visit the Corinthians for the third time. He emphasizes the principle of establishing facts by the testimony of two or three witnesses, as seen in 2 Corinthians 13:1: "This is the third time I am coming to you. 'Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.'" This reflects the Old Testament legal principle found in Deuteronomy 19:15. 2. Call for Self-Examination Paul urges the Corinthians to examine themselves to see whether they are in the faith, as stated in 2 Corinthians 13:5: "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?" The Greek word for "examine" (δοκιμάζω, dokimazo) implies a thorough testing or proving. 3. Paul's Authority and Weakness Paul discusses his authority and the power of Christ working through him, even in weakness. In 2 Corinthians 13:4, he writes: "For He was 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." The Greek word for "weakness" (ἀσθένεια, astheneia) highlights human frailty contrasted with divine strength. 4. Paul's Prayer for the Corinthians Paul expresses his prayerful desire for the Corinthians' perfection and spiritual growth. In 2 Corinthians 13:9, he states: "In fact, we rejoice when we are weak but you are strong, and our prayer is for your perfection." The term "perfection" (κατάρτισις, katartisis) refers to being made complete or fully equipped. 5. Final Exhortations and Greetings Paul concludes with final exhortations for the Corinthians to aim for restoration, comfort, unity, and peace. In 2 Corinthians 13:11, he writes: "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." The Greek word for "harmony" (καταρτίζω, katartizo) again emphasizes being made complete or restored. 6. Benediction Paul ends with a Trinitarian benediction, invoking the grace of Jesus, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit. In 2 Corinthians 13:14, he writes: "May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all." This reflects the unity and distinct roles within the Trinity. Lessons from 2 Corinthians 13 1. Examine Yourself in Faith In 2 Corinthians 13:5, Paul urges us to "examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves." This is a call to introspection, encouraging us to regularly assess our spiritual health. Just as we maintain our physical well-being, our spiritual life requires attention and care. By aligning our lives with Scripture, we ensure that our faith is genuine and growing. 2. Christ's Power in Weakness Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 13:4 that "He was crucified in weakness, yet He lives by God’s power." This paradox highlights that true strength is found in surrendering to God. When we acknowledge our weaknesses, we open ourselves to His mighty power working through us. Embrace your limitations as opportunities for God to demonstrate His strength. 3. Strive for Restoration In 2 Corinthians 13:11, Paul encourages believers to "aim for restoration." This is a call to mend relationships and seek unity within the body of Christ. By prioritizing reconciliation, we reflect the love and grace of Jesus, fostering a community that mirrors His kingdom on earth. 4. Rejoice and Be Encouraged Paul's exhortation to "rejoice" in 2 Corinthians 13:11 reminds us to find joy in our faith journey. Despite life's challenges, we are called to maintain a spirit of joy and encouragement. This attitude not only uplifts our spirits but also inspires those around us to see the hope we have in Christ. 5. Live in Peace "Live in peace," Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 13:11. Peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of God’s tranquility in our hearts. By seeking peace with others and within ourselves, we create an environment where God’s love can flourish, and His presence can be felt. 6. The God of Love and Peace Paul assures us in 2 Corinthians 13:11 that "the God of love and peace will be with you." This promise is a comforting reminder that God’s presence is constant. As we pursue love and peace, we invite His presence into our lives, experiencing His guidance and comfort daily. 7. Greet One Another with a Holy Kiss In 2 Corinthians 13:12, Paul instructs believers to "greet one another with a holy kiss." While cultural expressions of greeting may vary, the underlying principle is to show genuine affection and warmth to fellow believers. This fosters a sense of belonging and community within the church. 8. The Grace of Jesus Christ Paul concludes with a blessing in 2 Corinthians 13:14, highlighting "the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ." Grace is the unmerited favor we receive through Christ’s sacrifice. It is a reminder of the boundless love and mercy available to us, encouraging us to extend the same grace to others. 9. The Love of God "The love of God" mentioned in 2 Corinthians 13:14 is the foundation of our faith. It is a love that is unconditional and everlasting. By embracing this love, we are empowered to love others selflessly, reflecting God’s character in our interactions. 10. Fellowship of the Holy Spirit Finally, Paul speaks of "the fellowship of the Holy Spirit" in 2 Corinthians 13:14. This fellowship is a daily communion with the Spirit, guiding and empowering us in our walk with Christ. By nurturing this relationship, we gain wisdom, strength, and the ability to live out our faith authentically. These lessons from 2 Corinthians 13 serve as a roadmap for living a life that honors God and reflects His love to the world. Let them inspire you to deepen your faith and impact those around you with the transformative power of the Gospel. Topics 1. Paul's Third Visit and Warning (2 Corinthians 13:1-2) Paul begins by stating, "This is the third time I am coming to you. 'Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.'" . He warns that he will not spare those who have sinned, emphasizing the need for accountability and discipline within the church. The reference to "two or three witnesses" echoes Deuteronomy 19:15, underscoring the importance of corroborated testimony in establishing truth. 2. Examination of Faith (2 Corinthians 13:5-6) Paul urges the Corinthians to "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves." . This self-examination is crucial for ensuring genuine faith and alignment with Christ. The Greek word for "examine" (δοκιμάζω, dokimazo) implies a rigorous testing to prove authenticity. 3. Paul's Authority and Weakness (2 Corinthians 13:3-4, 7-10) Paul defends his apostolic authority, stating that Christ is powerful among them, even though He was crucified in weakness. Paul reflects this paradox of strength in weakness, a recurring theme in his letters. He prays for their perfection and writes these things to build them up, not to tear them down. 4. Final Greetings and Benediction (2 Corinthians 13:11-14) Paul concludes with exhortations to "rejoice, aim for perfect harmony, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace." . He ends with a Trinitarian benediction: "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all." . This reflects the unity and communal aspect of the Christian faith, rooted in the Greek word κοινωνία (koinonia), meaning fellowship or communion. Themes 1. Examination of Faith Paul urges the Corinthians to examine themselves to see whether they are in the faith. This theme emphasizes self-reflection and spiritual introspection. The Greek word "δοκιμάζετε" (dokimazete) is used, meaning to test or prove. ^"Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves."^ (2 Corinthians 13:5) 2. Apostolic Authority and Discipline Paul asserts his authority as an apostle and warns of discipline if there is no repentance. This theme highlights the importance of church discipline and the role of apostolic authority. ^"This is the third time I am coming to you. Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses."^ (2 Corinthians 13:1) 3. Christ’s Power in Weakness The theme of strength in weakness is reiterated, showing that Christ’s power is made perfect in human frailty. The Greek word "ἀσθένεια" (astheneia) refers to weakness or infirmity. ^"For to be sure, He was 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."^ (2 Corinthians 13:4) 4. Truth and Integrity Paul emphasizes living in truth and integrity, aligning with the truth of the Gospel. This theme underscores the importance of honesty and moral uprightness. ^"For we cannot do anything against the truth, but only for the truth."^ (2 Corinthians 13:8) 5. Restoration and Encouragement Paul expresses his desire for the Corinthians’ restoration and spiritual growth. This theme focuses on the goal of edification and encouragement within the church. ^"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."^ (2 Corinthians 13:11) 6. The Trinitarian Blessing The letter concludes with a Trinitarian blessing, highlighting the grace of Jesus, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit. This theme reflects the unity and work of the Trinity in the believer’s life. ^"May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all."^ (2 Corinthians 13:14) Prayer Points Pray for the Holy Spirit to guide you in self-examination and reveal areas in need of growth. Ask God for strength to embrace your weaknesses and rely on His power. Seek God's help in restoring broken relationships and fostering unity within your community. Pray for a heart that rejoices in the truth and strives for peace and encouragement among believers. As we reflect on 2 Corinthians 13, may we be inspired to live lives that are continually examined and transformed by the power of Christ, striving for unity and peace in all our relationships. Answering Tough Questions 1. 2 Corinthians 13:1 – If Paul visited Corinth multiple times, why does historical and archeological evidence seem insufficient to confirm these repeated visits? 2. How can Jesus be "crucified in weakness" yet remain all-powerful, and does this contradict scientific or historical views on crucifixion? 3. 2 Corinthians 13:5 – Is there a way to objectively “examine” one’s faith without relying on personal and potentially biased spiritual experiences? 4. 2 Corinthians 13:8 – If nothing can be done against the truth, why are there so many differing, and sometimes contradictory, Christian doctrines and interpretations today? 5. 2 Corinthians 13:9–10 – Does Paul’s apparent confidence in exercising authority over believers conflict with other biblical texts emphasizing humility and service? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Paul's final warning challenge your understanding of pastoral authority and discipline in the church? 2. Why does Paul call the Corinthians to self-examination, and how can this be applied to our spiritual lives today? 3. How does this chapter illustrate the balance between correction and encouragement in spiritual leadership? 4. How can the concept of Christ living in us influence our daily behavior and attitudes? 5. How does Paul's prayer for the Corinthians' restoration reflect his pastoral care and concern? 6. In what ways does Paul's concluding exhortation and benediction inspire you in your spiritual journey? 7. How can the trinitarian blessing shape your understanding of the Godhead and their role in your life? 8. How does this chapter influence your understanding of spiritual accountability within a Christian community? 9. Reflect on a time when you had to examine your faith. What were the outcomes, and how did it help your spiritual growth? 10. How can we achieve the ideal of perfection and restoration that Paul hopes for the Corinthians in our own lives? 11. How does Paul's approach to dealing with the Corinthians' issues inform your understanding of spiritual leadership and accountability? 12. What does it mean to "live in peace," and how can we practically apply this in our lives? 13. How can you encourage spiritual self-examination in your church community as Paul did with the Corinthians? 14. In your life, how have you experienced "the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit"? 15. How does the theme of spiritual restoration in this chapter apply to current challenges within your church community? 16. Reflect on the principle of "confirmation by two or three witnesses" in your life. How has it been used, and how has it impacted you? 17. How do Paul's concluding words in this letter inspire unity and love in your Christian community? 18. In what ways can Paul's hope for the Corinthians' "perfection" be understood and pursued in our Christian lives? 19. How does Paul's example inspire you to balance truth and grace in difficult situations? 20. How can the theme of 'strength in weakness' from Paul's life inspire you when dealing with personal challenges? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions