AI Commentary: 2 Corinthians 13

Verse-by-verse analysis and insights from the Authorized King James Version (KJV)

Note: This AI-powered commentary is generated based on historical, theological, and scholarly sources. It's designed to assist your study but should not replace personal reflection and traditional commentaries.

Chapter Overview

2 Corinthians 13 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of discipleship, holiness, sacrifice. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 55-56 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Paul defended his apostleship against challenges in a culture valuing rhetorical prowess.

The chapter can be divided into several sections:

  1. Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
  2. Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
  3. Verses 13-14: Central message and teachings

This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 2 Corinthians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.

Verse 1
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This is the third time I am coming to you. In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established.

Analysis - Verse 1

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.

Cross References

Historical Context - Verse 1

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Study Questions - Verse 1

  1. In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
  2. How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
  3. In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
Verse 2
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I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second time; and being absent now I write to them which heretofore have sinned, and to all other, that, if I come again, I will not spare:

Analysis - Verse 2

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Corinthians. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Cross References

Historical Context - Verse 2

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.

Study Questions - Verse 2

  1. What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
  2. In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
  3. How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
Verse 3
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Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is mighty in you.

Analysis - Verse 3

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.

Cross References

Historical Context - Verse 3

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Study Questions - Verse 3

  1. How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
  2. How does this verse's literary context within 2 Corinthians chapter 13 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
  3. How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
Verse 4
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For though he was crucified through weakness, yet he liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but we shall live with him by the power of God toward you.

Analysis - Verse 4

Within the broader context of 2 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 2 Corinthians.

Cross References

Historical Context - Verse 4

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Study Questions - Verse 4

  1. How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
  2. How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
  3. How does this verse's literary context within 2 Corinthians chapter 13 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
Verse 5
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Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?

Analysis - Verse 5

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Corinthians. The concept of faith reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes pistis in Greek, encompassing both belief and faithfulness, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Cross References

Historical Context - Verse 5

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 faith in this particular way.

Study Questions - Verse 5

  1. How might the original audience's understanding of faith differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
  2. How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
  3. How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
Verse 6
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But I trust that ye shall know that we are not reprobates.

Analysis - Verse 6

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Corinthians. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Cross References

Historical Context - Verse 6

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Study Questions - Verse 6

  1. How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
  2. In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
  3. In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
Verse 7
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Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appear approved, but that ye should do that which is honest, though we be as reprobates.

Analysis - Verse 7

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Corinthians. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Cross References

Historical Context - Verse 7

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Study Questions - Verse 7

  1. What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
  2. How does this verse's literary context within 2 Corinthians chapter 13 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
  3. What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
Verse 8
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For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.

Analysis - Verse 8

Within the broader context of 2 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of truth connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about truth, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 2 Corinthians.

Cross References

Historical Context - Verse 8

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood truth. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Study Questions - Verse 8

  1. What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
  2. How might the original audience's understanding of truth differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
  3. How does this verse's literary context within 2 Corinthians chapter 13 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
Verse 9
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For we are glad, when we are weak, and ye are strong: and this also we wish, even your perfection.

Analysis - Verse 9

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Corinthians. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Cross References

Historical Context - Verse 9

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Study Questions - Verse 9

  1. In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
  2. How might the original audience's understanding of divine revelation differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
  3. How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
Verse 10
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Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the power which the Lord hath given me to edification, and not to destruction.

Analysis - Verse 10

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Corinthians. The concept of divine sovereignty reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Cross References

Historical Context - Verse 10

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine sovereignty. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Study Questions - Verse 10

  1. How does this verse's literary context within 2 Corinthians chapter 13 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
  2. In what ways does understanding divine sovereignty in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
  3. How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
Verse 11
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Finally, 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.

Analysis - Verse 11

Within the broader context of 2 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of love connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about love, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 2 Corinthians.

Cross References

Historical Context - Verse 11

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show patron-client relationships and family loyalty concepts, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Study Questions - Verse 11

  1. How might the original audience's understanding of love differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
  2. What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
  3. In what ways does this verse's emphasis on love address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
Verse 12
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Greet one another with an holy kiss.

Analysis - Verse 12

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.

Cross References

Historical Context - Verse 12

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Study Questions - Verse 12

  1. How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
  2. What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
  3. How does this verse's literary context within 2 Corinthians chapter 13 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
Verse 13
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All the saints salute you.

Analysis - Verse 13

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.

Cross References

Historical Context - Verse 13

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Study Questions - Verse 13

  1. In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
  2. How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?
  3. What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
Verse 14
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The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen.

Analysis - Verse 14

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Corinthians. The concept of grace reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The divine name or title here functions within biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness to establish theological authority and covenantal relationship. The original language emphasizes the covenant name Yahweh, emphasizing God's faithfulness to His promises, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Cross References

Historical Context - Verse 14

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 grace in this particular way.

Study Questions - Verse 14

  1. How might the original audience's understanding of grace differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
  2. What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
  3. How does this verse's literary context within 2 Corinthians chapter 13 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
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