What does 2 Corinthians 1:21 mean?

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Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God; 2 Corinthians 1:21

Explanation

2 Corinthians 1:21 speaks about the divine actions and roles of God in the lives of believers, particularly highlighting two specific actions: establishing and anointing. The verse tells us that God is the one who establishes (confirms or makes stable) us along with fellow believers in Christ, and He is also the one who anoints us. This points to the idea that the faith and unity of believers are works of God, not human efforts. The word “anoint” here is significant as it carries connotations of being set apart for a special purpose or function. The anointing references the Holy Spirit, who empowers and consecrates believers for service and mission.

Historical Context

This verse is written by the Apostle Paul in his second letter to the church at Corinth. The historical context of this letter is Paul’s relationship with the Corinthian church, which was complex and sometimes strained. The church faced internal conflicts, misunderstandings, and opposition to Paul’s authority and teachings. Paul wrote to defend his apostleship, to correct doctrinal errors, and to offer guidance to the believers in Corinth. During this period, challenges such as Gnostic philosophies, disputes over spiritual gifts, and issues of morality were prevalent, affecting the early Christian community.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints may place varying emphasis on elements of this verse:

Reformed Theology might focus on the sovereignty of God in salvation, asserting that God is the primary agent who establishes and sanctifies believers.
Pentecostal and Charismatic Theology may highlight the act of anointing as a reference to the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers for service.
Catholic and Orthodox Theology may see the anointing as a connection to sacramental theology, where the grace of God is imparted through sacred rites like confirmation or chrismation.

Practical Applications

This verse can be practically applied in the following ways:

Encouraging believers of their secure position in Christ, knowing that it is God who establishes them.
Reminding Christians that they are anointed, set apart for God’s purposes, and empowered by the Holy Spirit for ministry and holy living.
Offering comfort and assurance in times of doubt and instability, emphasizing that God is a firm foundation.

Cross-References

Ephesians 2:22 – In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.
1 John 2:20 – But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things.
1 John 2:27 – But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you…

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the word used for “stablisheth” is “βεβαιῶν” (bebaiōn), meaning to make firm, establish, confirm. The word for “anointed” is “χρίσας” (chrisas), the same root from where “Christ” (the Anointed One) derives. This speaks of being consecrated, endowed with the necessary gifts for a divine mission or calling.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

This concept of anointing has parallels in other ancient cultures and religions:

In ancient Israel, kings, priests, and prophets were anointed as part of their consecration for service to God.
In Egyptian and Mesopotamian cultures, anointing was part of rituals to consecrate individuals for religious or royal service.
The idea of being established by a deity is seen in various myths where gods affirm the status or calling of heroes or leaders.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse does not directly engage with scientific perspectives, one could argue that the psychological effects of feeling ‘established’ or ‘rooted’ have been studied in various fields, such as developmental psychology, showcasing the importance of stability and security in human well-being.

Commentaries

John Calvin emphasizes God’s role in strengthening the faith of believers, underscoring that true confirmation can only come from God.
Matthew Henry sees this verse as a reminder that all good things, including our faith and steadfastness, come from God through Jesus Christ.
The Pulpit Commentary discusses the anointing as symbolic of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, which not only sanctify but also enable believers to gain knowledge of spiritual truths.