2 Corinthians 2:8
Wherefore I beseech you that ye would confirm your love toward him.
Original Language Analysis
παρακαλῶ
I beseech
G3870
παρακαλῶ
I beseech
Strong's:
G3870
Word #:
2 of 7
to call near, i.e., invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation)
εἰς
toward
G1519
εἰς
toward
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
5 of 7
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
Historical Context
Greco-Roman voluntary associations rarely provided mechanisms for full restoration after expulsion. Paul's call for public confirmation of restored love was countercultural, reflecting the church's unique identity as a forgiven and forgiving community, bound not by honor codes but by Christ's reconciling work.
Questions for Reflection
- Why is public restoration as important as public discipline?
- How can churches today formally "confirm love" toward those restored from discipline?
- What does this passage teach about the corporate nature of church membership?
Analysis & Commentary
Wherefore I beseech you that ye would confirm your love toward him—The verb parakalo (παρακαλῶ, "I beseech, urge") is Paul's appeal, and kyrosai (κυρῶσαι, "to confirm, ratify, establish") is a legal term suggesting formal validation. Paul calls for an official congregational act—not private individuals quietly accepting the penitent, but the church corporately and publicly affirming restored fellowship.
The phrase your love toward him (agapēn eis auton, ἀγάπην εἰς αὐτὸν) indicates intentional, active love, not mere tolerance. Just as the church formally disciplined, it must now formally restore. This public restoration prevents the forgiven person from remaining in relational limbo, perpetually uncertain of their standing. The same community that exercised discipline must now exercise love, demonstrating that discipline serves love's purposes.