2 Corinthians 6:2
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Corinthians 6:2
2 (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)
Chapter Context
2 Corinthians 6 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, grace, prayer. 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 addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 6:2
2 (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)
Analysis
I have heard thee in a time accepted (καιρῷ δεκτῷ, kairo dekto, 'acceptable time')—Paul quotes Isaiah 49:8 (LXX), applying the Servant's restoration promise to the present gospel age. The perfect tense epēkousa ('I have heard') indicates completed divine action with ongoing results. God's hearing implies answered prayer and covenant faithfulness.
Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation—The doubled idou ('behold') creates emphatic urgency. Paul shifts from Isaiah's prophetic future to realized eschatology: the 'favorable time' prophesied has arrived in Christ. Kairos (opportune moment) differs from chronos (chronological time)—this is the decisive salvific moment in redemptive history.
The parenthetical nature of verse 2 emphasizes its supporting role: Paul's entreaty (v.1) is grounded in the theological reality that the messianic age has dawned. Delay in responding to the gospel is not merely unwise but tragic, squandering the divinely appointed moment of grace.
Historical Context
Isaiah 49:8 originally addressed Israel's restoration from Babylonian exile, promising God would answer the Servant and restore the nation. Paul applies this typologically to the gospel era, where Christ the Servant brings universal salvation. The 'now' contrasts with the old covenant's shadows and anticipations—the reality has come in Christ's death and resurrection.
Reflection
- How does recognizing that you live in 'the day of salvation' create urgency in your response to God and witness to others?
- In what ways might you be presuming on future opportunities for repentance or obedience rather than responding 'now'?
- How does Paul's application of Isaiah 49 demonstrate the unity of Scripture and Christ-centered interpretation of the Old Testament?
Word Studies
- Salvation: σωτηρία (Soteria) G4991 - Salvation, deliverance
Cross-References
- Salvation: Isaiah 49:8
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 61:2, Ezekiel 16:8, Luke 4:19, Hebrews 3:7, 3:13, 4:7