2 Corinthians 13:9
For we are glad, when we are weak, and ye are strong: and this also we wish, even your perfection.
Original Language Analysis
χαίρομεν
are glad
G5463
χαίρομεν
are glad
Strong's:
G5463
Word #:
1 of 16
to be "cheer"ful, i.e., calmly happy or well-off; impersonally, especially as salutation (on meeting or parting), be well
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 16
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
ὅταν
when
G3752
ὅταν
when
Strong's:
G3752
Word #:
3 of 16
whenever (implying hypothesis or more or less uncertainty); also causatively (conjunctionally) inasmuch as
δυνατοὶ
strong
G1415
δυνατοὶ
strong
Strong's:
G1415
Word #:
8 of 16
powerful or capable (literally or figuratively); neuter possible
ἦτε·
are
G5600
ἦτε·
are
Strong's:
G5600
Word #:
9 of 16
(may, might, can, could, would, should, must, etc.; also with g1487 and its comparative, as well as with other particles) be
καὶ
also
G2532
καὶ
also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
12 of 16
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Cross References
2 Corinthians 13:11Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.1 Corinthians 4:10We are fools for Christ's sake, but ye are wise in Christ; we are weak, but ye are strong; ye are honourable, but we are despised.1 Thessalonians 3:10Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith?1 Peter 5:10But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.
Historical Context
Ancient patronage systems created dependency—benefactors maintained power by keeping clients subordinate. Paul's model radically differs: true apostolic success is measured by believers' maturity and independence in Christ, not by maintaining hierarchical control. Paul aims to work himself out of a job, producing mature saints who need less intervention.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Paul's rejoicing in his own 'weakness' and their 'strength' challenge modern leadership models?
- What does 'perfection' (katartisis—restoration/completion) look like in Christian sanctification?
- How do we measure pastoral success: by leader's authority being exercised, or by congregation's maturity?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
For we are glad, when we are weak, and ye are strong—Paul rejoices in role reversal: his weakness (asthenōmen, ἀσθενῶμεν, "we are weak") alongside their strength (dynatoi, δυνατοί, "you are strong"). If they're spiritually strong, Paul appears weak (no discipline needed), but that's precisely his desire. This inverts worldly power dynamics: the apostle's joy comes from congregation's strength, not from exercising authority over them.
And this also we wish, even your perfection—The Greek katartisis (κατάρτισις, "perfection/restoration/completion") appears only here in the NT. It means "mending, restoring to proper condition" (used of mending nets in Matt 4:21), pointing to sanctification—becoming what God intends. Paul's ultimate goal is their katartisis, not his vindication. This echoes Ephesians 4:12 where leaders exist "for the perfecting (katartismon) of the saints."