2 Corinthians 7:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Corinthians 7:2
2 Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man.
Chapter Context
2 Corinthians 7 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of fellowship, truth, love. 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:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-16: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 Study
2 Corinthians 7:2
2 Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man.
Analysis
Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man—The imperative chōrēsate (χωρήσατε, "make room for us/receive us") literally means "make space" in your hearts. Paul's triple defense uses strong Greek negatives: oudena ēdikēsamen (οὐδένα ἠδικήσαμεν, "we wronged no one"), oudena eptheiramen (οὐδένα ἐφθείραμεν, "we corrupted no one"), oudena epleonektēsamen (οὐδένα ἐπλεονεκτήσαμεν, "we defrauded no one").
These denials address specific accusations from Paul's opponents: financial exploitation (pleonekteō, "to take advantage/defraud"), moral corruption (phtheirō, "to ruin/corrupt"—used of sexual immorality in 11:3), and general injustice (adikeō, "to wrong"). Unlike the 'super-apostles' who peddled God's word for profit (2:17), Paul's ministry maintained ethical integrity. His appeal for reconciliation rests on demonstrable blamelessness, not manipulative rhetoric.
Historical Context
False apostles in Corinth (11:13-15) apparently accused Paul of financial impropriety, perhaps related to the Jerusalem collection (chapters 8-9). In Greco-Roman culture, traveling philosophers and rhetoricians often exploited audiences financially. Paul's refusal to accept payment (11:7-12) was unusual and apparently used against him as evidence of inferior apostleship.
Reflection
- How does Paul's transparent accountability challenge modern ministry practices that prioritize platform over character?
- In what relationships am I withholding forgiveness or reconciliation despite the other party's demonstrated integrity?
- What accusations against God's servants do I believe too quickly without examining the evidence?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 2 Corinthians 11:9, Numbers 16:15, Matthew 10:14, 10:40, Acts 20:33, Romans 16:18