2 Corinthians 13

14 verses

TL;DR

Paul reminds the Corinthian church of his third visit, urging self‑examination and steadfast faith while acknowledging their weakness and his own, concluding with a farewell and blessing.

Summary

Paul opens by noting his third visit to Corinth, emphasizing the need for witnesses to confirm his words. He stresses that Christ speaks through him, who, though weak, is empowered by God. The apostle exhorts the believers to examine themselves to ensure they possess genuine faith and are not reprobates. He acknowledges his own weakness yet affirms the power of truth and the importance of doing good. The letter ends with farewell greetings, a call for unity and peace, and blessings of love and the Holy Spirit.

Outline

Paul’s third visit and exhortation to witness
Exhortation to self‑examination amid acknowledged weakness
Farewell, blessings, and call for unity

Themes

Faith and self‑examinationWeakness and strength in ChristChurch unity and love

Keywords

prooffaithweaknessstrengthtruthreprobatesholy kisssalute

People

PaulJesus Christthe Saints

Places

Things

proof of Christweaknessstrengthtruthreprobatesholy kiss

Key Verses

2 Corinthians 13:5: Central call for believers to examine their faith
2 Corinthians 13:11: Conclusion with instructions for unity and peace
2 Corinthians 13:13: Closing greeting and blessing of the Saints

Questions

What does Paul mean by "examine yourselves" and how should this be practiced?
How does Paul reconcile his own weakness with the call for believers to live in strength?
In what ways does the notion of reprobation affect the church’s self‑identity?
What is the significance of the "holy kiss" in early Christian communication?
How does the letter’s farewell and blessings reflect Paul’s theological priorities?

Sentiment

neutral
Balanced exhortation and comfort, neither overtly positive nor negative