2 Corinthians 6:1
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Corinthians 6:1
1 We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.
Chapter Context
2 Corinthians 6 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of mercy, grace, wisdom. 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 13-18: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. 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 6:1
1 We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.
Analysis
We then, as workers together with him (συνεργοῦντες, synergountes, 'working together')—Paul identifies himself and his fellow apostles as synergoi, co-laborers with God in the gospel mission. This participial phrase emphasizes divine-human cooperation in ministry, where God's sovereign action does not eliminate human agency but enlists it.
Receive not the grace of God in vain (εἰς κενὸν, eis kenon, 'into emptiness')—The verb dechomai ('receive') in the aorist infinitive suggests a definitive reception that produces no fruit. Paul warns against treating grace as a dead orthodoxy rather than a transformative power. To receive grace 'in vain' is to hear the gospel without genuine repentance, to claim justification without sanctification, to profess faith without obedience.
This verse connects directly to 5:20's appeal to 'be reconciled to God,' serving as both transition and application. Paul's apostolic ministry is not merely proclamation but urgent entreaty (parakaleo, 'beseech') that the Corinthians' initial response to the gospel would bear lasting fruit in holiness.
Historical Context
Paul wrote 2 Corinthians around AD 55-56 from Macedonia, addressing ongoing tensions with the Corinthian church. The church had received Paul's gospel but struggled with false apostles and worldly living. Chapter 6 continues Paul's defense of his apostolic ministry (chapters 1-7) and his appeal for the Corinthians to live consistently with their profession of faith.
Reflection
- In what ways might you be receiving God's grace 'in vain'—professing faith without corresponding transformation?
- How does viewing yourself as God's 'co-worker' change your understanding of your role in ministry and witness?
- What evidence in your life demonstrates that you have received God's grace with fruitfulness rather than emptiness?
Word Studies
- Grace: χάρις (Charis) G5485 - Grace, favor
Cross-References
- Grace: Acts 14:3, Galatians 2:21, Titus 2:11, Hebrews 12:15, 1 Peter 4:10
- References God: Romans 12:1, 1 Corinthians 3:9
- Parallel theme: Matthew 23:37, Galatians 3:4, Hebrews 12:25