2 Corinthians 13
BSB1 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. 4 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. 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? 6 And I hope you will realize that we have not failed the test. 7 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. 8 For we cannot do anything against the truth, but only for the truth. 9 In fact, we rejoice when we are weak but you are strong, and our prayer is for your perfection. 10 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. 11 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. 12 Greet one another with a holy kiss. 13 All the saints send you greetings. 14 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 — 2 Corinthians 13
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from 2 Corinthians 13
- Themes from 2 Corinthians 13
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on 2 Corinthians 13
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
In 2 Corinthians 13, Paul defends his apostolic authority and warns the Corinthian church of the dangers of false teaching. He encourages them to examine themselves to see if they are in the faith, and he warns them that if they are not living a life that is pleasing to God, they will face judgment. Paul also expresses his desire to visit the church again and to have a face-to-face conversation with them. The chapter ends with a benediction, where Paul prays for the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ to be with the believers. Key verses in this chapter include 2 Corinthians 13:5, where Paul encourages the believers to examine themselves, and 2 Corinthians 13:14, where Paul prays for the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ to be with them.
Context for the Chapter
2 Corinthians 13 is the final chapter of the book of 2 Corinthians, which is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the Corinthian church. The chapter is a conclusion to the letter, where Paul defends his apostolic authority, encourages the believers to examine themselves, and prays for the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ to be with them. The chapter is part of the larger narrative of the New Testament, which emphasizes the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God and of being mindful of one's spiritual condition. The book of 2 Corinthians is a response to the Corinthian church's questions and concerns, and it provides guidance and encouragement to the believers.
Heart Application
The application of this chapter is to encourage believers to examine themselves to see if they are in the faith. It is a call to spiritual self-examination and a reminder that believers should be mindful of their spiritual condition. The chapter also encourages believers to live a life that is pleasing to God, and to trust in the power of Christ to enable them to do so. By applying the principles of this chapter, believers can deepen their relationship with God and live a life that is surrendered to Him.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter is about the Apostle Paul's examination of the Corinthian church and his exhortation to them to examine themselves. He encourages them to test themselves to see if they are in the faith, and he warns them of the consequences of not living a life that is pleasing to God. The chapter ends with a benediction, where Paul prays for the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ to be with the believers. As seen in 2 Corinthians 13:5, Paul reminds the believers to examine themselves to see if they are in the faith.
Voices from the Church
“The greatest crime that a man can commit is to trifle with his own soul, and the next greatest crime is to trifle with the souls of others.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“It is not enough to have a mere outward profession of faith, but we must also have a true and living faith that is rooted in the heart.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction (2 Corinthians 13:1-4) — Paul defends his apostolic authority and reminds the believers that he has the power to discipline them if they are not living a life that is pleasing to God.
- The Importance of Self-Examination (2 Corinthians 13:5-6) — Paul encourages the believers to examine themselves to see if they are in the faith, and to test themselves to see if they are living a life that is pleasing to God.
- The Power of Christ (2 Corinthians 13:3-4) — Paul reminds the believers that Christ is in them, unless they fail the test, and that they should trust in the power of Christ to enable them to live a life that is pleasing to God.
- The Benediction (2 Corinthians 13:14) — Paul prays for the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ to be with the believers, and reminds them of God's love and mercy towards them.
- Conclusion (2 Corinthians 13:11-13) — Paul concludes the chapter by encouraging the believers to live in peace, to greet one another with a holy kiss, and to trust in the power of Christ to enable them to do so.
Core Doctrines
- The Importance of Self-Examination
- This chapter teaches that self-examination is essential for believers, as it helps them to identify areas where they need to grow and to ensure that they are living a life that is pleasing to God. As seen in 2 Corinthians 13:5, Paul encourages the believers to examine themselves to see if they are in the faith.
- The Power of Christ
- This chapter teaches that Christ is in believers, unless they fail the test, and that they should trust in the power of Christ to enable them to live a life that is pleasing to God. As seen in 2 Corinthians 13:3-4, Paul reminds the believers of the power of Christ.
- The Grace of God
- This chapter teaches that the grace of God is available to believers, and that they should trust in the power of Christ to enable them to live a life that is pleasing to God. As seen in 2 Corinthians 13:14, Paul prays for the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ to be with the believers.
- The Importance of Living a Life that is Pleasing to God
- This chapter teaches that believers should strive to live a life that is pleasing to God, and that they should trust in the power of Christ to enable them to do so. As seen in 2 Corinthians 13:5-6, Paul encourages the believers to examine themselves and to live a life that is pleasing to God.
Lessons from 2 Corinthians 13
- The Importance of Self-Examination — This chapter teaches that self-examination is essential for believers, as it helps them to identify areas where they need to grow and to ensure that they are living a life that is pleasing to God.
- The Power of Christ — This chapter teaches that Christ is in believers, unless they fail the test, and that they should trust in the power of Christ to enable them to live a life that is pleasing to God.
- The Grace of God — This chapter teaches that the grace of God is available to believers, and that they should trust in the power of Christ to enable them to live a life that is pleasing to God.
- The Importance of Living a Life that is Pleasing to God — This chapter teaches that believers should strive to live a life that is pleasing to God, and that they should trust in the power of Christ to enable them to do so.
- The Benediction — This chapter teaches that the benediction is a reminder of God's love and mercy towards believers, and that they should trust in the power of Christ to enable them to live a life that is pleasing to God.
Themes from 2 Corinthians 13
- Examination and Self-Reflection — This chapter emphasizes the importance of self-examination and self-reflection in the life of a believer. As seen in 2 Corinthians 13:5, Paul encourages the believers to examine themselves to see if they are in the faith.
- The Power of Christ — This chapter emphasizes the power of Christ to enable believers to live a life that is pleasing to God. As seen in 2 Corinthians 13:3-4, Paul reminds the believers of the power of Christ.
- The Importance of Living a Life that is Pleasing to God — This chapter emphasizes the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God, and encourages believers to strive to do so. As seen in 2 Corinthians 13:5-6, Paul encourages the believers to examine themselves and to live a life that is pleasing to God.
- The Grace of God — This chapter emphasizes the availability of the grace of God to believers, and encourages them to trust in the power of Christ to enable them to live a life that is pleasing to God. As seen in 2 Corinthians 13:14, Paul prays for the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ to be with the believers.
- The Benediction — This chapter emphasizes the importance of the benediction as a reminder of God's love and mercy towards believers. As seen in 2 Corinthians 13:14, Paul prays for the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ to be with the believers.
Questions for Meditation
- What does it mean to examine yourself to see if you are in the faith, and how can you apply this principle in your own life?
- How can you trust in the power of Christ to enable you to live a life that is pleasing to God?
- What does it mean to live a life that is pleasing to God, and how can you strive to do so in your own life?
- How can you apply the principles of this chapter to your own life, and what are some ways that you can deepen your relationship with God?
- What are some ways that you can encourage others to examine themselves and to live a life that is pleasing to God?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction (2 Corinthians 13:1-4)
| 13:1 | Paul defends his apostolic authority and reminds the believers that he has the power to discipline them if they are not living a life that is pleasing to God. |
| 13:2 | Paul reminds the believers that he has the power to discipline them if they are not living a life that is pleasing to God. |
2. The Importance of Self-Examination (2 Corinthians 13:5-6)
| 13:5 | Paul encourages the believers to examine themselves to see if they are in the faith, and to test themselves to see if they are living a life that is pleasing to God. |
| 13:6 | Paul reminds the believers that he hopes they will realize that they have passed the test, and that Christ is in them, unless they fail the test. |
3. The Power of Christ (2 Corinthians 13:3-4)
| 13:3 | Paul reminds the believers that Christ is in them, unless they fail the test, and that they should trust in the power of Christ to enable them to live a life that is pleasing to God. |
| 13:4 | Paul reminds the believers that he is weak in the flesh, but that he will be bold and confident in the power of Christ. |
4. The Benediction (2 Corinthians 13:14)
| 13:14 | Paul prays for the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ to be with the believers, and reminds them of God's love and mercy towards them. |
5. Conclusion (2 Corinthians 13:11-13)
| 13:11 | Paul encourages the believers to live in peace, to greet one another with a holy kiss, and to trust in the power of Christ to enable them to do so. |
| 13:12 | Paul encourages the believers to greet one another with a holy kiss. |
| 13:13 | Paul prays for the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ to be with the believers, and reminds them of God's love and mercy towards them. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean to examine yourself to see if you are in the faith?
It means to test yourself to see if you are living a life that is pleasing to God, and to ensure that you are trusting in the power of Christ to enable you to do so. As seen in 2 Corinthians 13:5, Paul encourages the believers to examine themselves to see if they are in the faith.
How can I trust in the power of Christ to enable me to live a life that is pleasing to God?
You can trust in the power of Christ by surrendering your life to Him, and by seeking to live a life that is pleasing to God. As seen in 2 Corinthians 13:3-4, Paul reminds the believers of the power of Christ.
What is the benediction, and why is it important?
The benediction is a prayer that Paul prays for the believers, reminding them of God's love and mercy towards them. It is important because it reminds believers of God's love and mercy, and encourages them to trust in the power of Christ. As seen in 2 Corinthians 13:14, Paul prays for the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ to be with the believers.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 Corinthians 13:1 → Deuteronomy 19:15 | The concept of two or three witnesses is rooted in the Old Testament, as seen in Deuteronomy 19:15. |
| 2 | 2 Corinthians 13:3 → 1 Corinthians 2:3 | Paul's statement about being weak in the flesh is similar to his statement in 1 Corinthians 2:3, where he says that he was with them in weakness and in fear and in much trembling. |
| 3 | 2 Corinthians 13:4 → 2 Corinthians 12:9 | Paul's statement about being bold and confident in the power of Christ is similar to his statement in 2 Corinthians 12:9, where he says that he will boast all the more gladly about his weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on him. |
| 4 | 2 Corinthians 13:5 → 1 John 1:8 | The concept of self-examination is also seen in 1 John 1:8, where John says that if we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. |
| 5 | 2 Corinthians 13:9 → Romans 1:20 | The concept of being perfected in Christ is similar to the concept in Romans 1:20, where Paul says that since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. |
| 6 | 2 Corinthians 13:11 → Matthew 5:23-24 | The concept of living in peace is similar to the concept in Matthew 5:23-24, where Jesus says that if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift. |
| 7 | 2 Corinthians 13:12 → 1 Thessalonians 5:26 | The concept of greeting one another with a holy kiss is similar to the concept in 1 Thessalonians 5:26, where Paul says that greet all God’s people with a holy kiss. |
| 8 | 2 Corinthians 13:14 → Ephesians 6:24 | The concept of the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ is similar to the concept in Ephesians 6:24, where Paul says that grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love. |
| 9 | 2 Corinthians 13:1 → 2 Corinthians 12:20 | The concept of being present with the believers for the third time is similar to the concept in 2 Corinthians 12:20, where Paul says that he is afraid that when he comes to them, he will not find them as he wants them to be. |
| 10 | 2 Corinthians 13:5 → Psalm 51:10 | The concept of examining oneself is similar to the concept in Psalm 51:10, where David says that create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. |
Sermons on 2 Corinthians 13
| Sermon | Description | |
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A Sermon That Has Angered Many - Examine Yourself by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the fleeting nature of life and the importance of focusing on eternal things. He warns against being enslaved to the things of this present |
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(The Mission and Ministry of the Holy Spirit) the Communion of the Holy Spirit by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the speaker uses a hypothetical scenario of having the President of the United States visit your house to illustrate the importance of sharing the gospel. The speak |
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Repentance in Kansas City by Andrew Strom | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the state of Christian meetings and how they often fail to truly impact people. He emphasizes the need for authenticity and a genuine encoun |
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Christ Imparts Life by Major Ian Thomas | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the fallen nature of humanity and the expectations that God has for us. He emphasizes that in our flesh, apart from Christ, we are destined f |
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(Missions Conference Shoals) - Part 4 by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of listening to God's commandments and living a life of repentance. He compares the urgency of this message to a parent plead |
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(So Great a Salvation) Loving Ones Brother by Paris Reidhead | In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful story about a woman who cared for a sick mother and her children. Despite being just a laundress, she shared the message of Jesus with |
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Dr. Baxter's Testimony by J. Sidlow Baxter | In this sermon, the speaker shares personal anecdotes and reflections on the impact of Jesus in his life. He recalls his mother's faith and the influence of evangelists in his town |
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Genuine Conversion by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the speaker challenges the common practice of reducing the gospel to a simple prayer or set of beliefs. He emphasizes that true revival is not just a temporary emot |
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You're Changing by David Wilkerson | This sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing spiritual decline and the subtle changes that can lead believers away from God. It challenges listeners to examine their hearts |
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Biblical Assurance 1 - Austin, Tx by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the true nature of God and His will. He criticizes the reduction of Christianity to a few principles and a pr |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 2 Corinthians 13
In this chapter, Paul defends his apostolic authority and reminds the believers that he has the power to discipline them if they are not living a life that is pleasing to God. He encourages them to examine themselves to see if they are in the faith, and to test themselves to see if they are living a life that is pleasing to God. Paul also reminds them that Christ is in them, unless they fail the test, and that they should trust in the power of Christ to enable them to live a life that is pleasing to God. The chapter ends with a benediction, where Paul prays for the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ to be with the believers, and reminds them of God's love and mercy towards them. As Matthew Henry notes, this chapter is a call to spiritual self-examination and a reminder of the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
Paul's Apostolic Authority
Paul defends his apostolic authority in this chapter, emphasizing his role as an apostle of Christ. He reminds the believers that he has the power to discipline them if they are not living a life that is pleasing to God.
The Importance of Self-Examination
Paul encourages the believers to examine themselves to see if they are in the faith. This is a call to spiritual self-examination and a reminder that believers should be mindful of their spiritual condition.
The Benediction
The chapter ends with a benediction, where Paul prays for the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ to be with the believers. This is a reminder of God's love and mercy towards us, and of the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God.