2 Corinthians 6:11
O ye Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our heart is enlarged.
Original Language Analysis
Τὸ
G3588
Τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
στόμα
mouth
G4750
στόμα
mouth
Strong's:
G4750
Word #:
2 of 11
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
ἀνέῳγεν
is open
G455
ἀνέῳγεν
is open
Strong's:
G455
Word #:
4 of 11
to open up (literally or figuratively, in various applications)
πρὸς
unto
G4314
πρὸς
unto
Strong's:
G4314
Word #:
5 of 11
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,
Κορίνθιοι
O ye Corinthians
G2881
Κορίνθιοι
O ye Corinthians
Strong's:
G2881
Word #:
7 of 11
a corinthian, i.e., inhabitant of corinth
ἡ
G3588
ἡ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
8 of 11
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Philippians 1:8For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ.Revelation 22:12And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.Psalms 119:32I will run the way of thy commandments, when thou shalt enlarge my heart.2 Corinthians 12:15And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you; though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved.Philippians 4:15Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only.Psalms 51:15O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise.Job 32:20I will speak, that I may be refreshed: I will open my lips and answer.Ephesians 6:8Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free.2 Corinthians 2:4For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote unto you with many tears; not that ye should be grieved, but that ye might know the love which I have more abundantly unto you.Galatians 3:1O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you?
Historical Context
The Corinthians had received Paul coolly, influenced by critics who questioned his authority and sincerity. Despite this painful rejection, Paul refuses to close his heart or withdraw his affection. His open-hearted appeal demonstrates the genuineness of his apostolic love, contrasting with opponents who flattered the Corinthians while exploiting them (2 Cor 11:20).
Questions for Reflection
- Toward whom has your heart become constricted or closed due to conflict, criticism, or disappointment?
- How does Paul model 'enlarged heart' ministry that maintains affection and openness even toward difficult or critical people?
- In what relationships is God calling you to speak with an 'open mouth'—frank, transparent communication free from manipulation or hidden agendas?
Analysis & Commentary
O ye Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you (Τὸ στόμα ἡμῶν ἀνέῳγεν πρὸς ὑμᾶς, Κορίνθιοι, To stoma hēmōn aneōgen pros hymas, Korinthioi)—The perfect tense aneōgen ('has been opened, stands open') indicates an established state of frankness. Direct address by name ('O Corinthians') creates emotional intimacy and urgency. Paul's open mouth signifies transparent, unguarded communication—he has spoken freely, holding nothing back. This contrasts with manipulation or hidden agendas that characterized false teachers.
Our heart is enlarged (ἡ καρδία ἡμῶν πεπλάτυνται, hē kardia hēmōn peplatyntai)—The perfect tense peplatyntai ('has been enlarged, stands enlarged') describes Paul's expansive affection. Platynō means to widen, broaden, or make spacious. Paul's heart has room for the Corinthians despite their criticism and coolness toward him. This recalls God's promise: 'I will enlarge your heart' (Ps 119:32). Spiritual maturity produces emotional capacity for difficult relationships.
After the hardship catalogue (vv.3-10), Paul shifts to direct pastoral appeal (vv.11-13). His sufferings haven't hardened him or made him bitter—instead, his heart remains open and enlarged toward those who have wounded him. This models Christ-like love that suffers long and is kind (1 Cor 13:4-7).