2 Corinthians 13:1

Authorized King James Version

This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
Τρίτον
G5154
is the third
third; neuter (as noun) a third part, or (as adverb) a (or the) third time, thirdly
#2
τοῦτο
G5124
This
that thing
#3
ἔρχομαι
G2064
time I am coming
to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)
#4
πρὸς
G4314
to
a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,
#5
ὑμᾶς·
G5209
you
you (as the objective of a verb or preposition)
#6
ἐπὶ
G1909
In
properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re
#7
στόματος
G4750
the mouth
the mouth (as if a gash in the face); by implication, language (and its relations); figuratively, an opening (in the earth); specially, the front or e
#8
δύο
G1417
of two
"two"
#9
μαρτύρων
G3144
witnesses
a witness (literally (judicially) or figuratively (genitive case)); by analogy, a "martyr"
#10
καὶ
G2532
or
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
#11
τριῶν
G5140
three
"three"
#12
σταθήσεται
G2476
be established
to stand (transitively or intransitively), used in various applications (literally or figuratively)
#13
πᾶν
G3956
every
all, any, every, the whole
#14
ῥῆμα
G4487
word
an utterance (individually, collectively or specially),; by implication, a matter or topic (especially of narration, command or dispute); with a negat

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 2 Corinthians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection