What does 2 Corinthians 5:13 mean?

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For whether we be beside ourselves, it is to God: or whether we be sober, it is for your cause. 2 Corinthians 5:13

Explanation

The verse 2 Corinthians 5:13, “For whether we be beside ourselves, it is to God: or whether we be sober, it is for your cause,” reflects the Apostle Paul’s response to criticism of his ministry. In this verse, Paul seems to be discussing the perception that some had of him being “beside ourselves,” a phrase suggesting acting in an excessively enthusiastic, fanatical, or possibly even mad manner. He asserts that if he does act in a way that seems out of the ordinary or excessively passionate, it is because of his devotion to God. On the other hand, if he acts with sober-mindedness or restraint, it is for the benefit of the believers in Corinth. The deeper meaning implies that Paul’s behavior, whether deemed extreme or sensible, is guided by his service to God and his duty to edify the church.

Historical Context

2 Corinthians is a letter written by Paul to the church in Corinth. This epistle was likely composed in the mid-50s AD. At the time, Paul was facing challenges regarding his apostolic authority and was under scrutiny by some within the Corinthian community. These criticisms arose from false apostles who questioned his qualifications and authenticity. In responding to these attacks, Paul often had to justify the paradoxical nature of his ministry, which included times of great suffering and moments when he seemed overtaken by ecstatic experience or profound revelations from God.

Theological Insights

The verse touches upon the topic of divine inspiration and how the actions of individuals, particularly leaders like Paul, can be misinterpreted. From a theological perspective, this verse illustrates the duality of Christian living as a balance between zeal for God and practical service to others. It also suggests that the spiritual state of believers, whether in extraordinary spiritual experiences or ordinary rational behavior, should be directed towards serving God’s purposes and supporting the community of believers.

Practical Applications

This passage has practical implications for believers in terms of understanding the motivations behind one’s actions. It suggests that it’s essential to examine whether our passionate endeavours or calm, composed actions are aimed at serving God and aiding others. It also invites reflection on how we perceive the behavior of others in the faith community, encouraging us to be understanding and discerning rather than judgmental of actions that may appear unconventional.

Cross-References

Acts 26:24-25: “And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad. But he saith, I am not mad, most noble Festus; but speak forth the words of truth and soberness.”
1 Corinthians 14:15: “What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.”
Romans 12:11: “Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;”

Language Study

The phrase “beside ourselves” translates from the Greek word “existemi,” which can mean to be out of one’s mind or in astonishment. This gives the impression of behavior that is beyond the norm, possibly due to divine revelation or spiritual fervor. “Sober,” translated from the Greek “sophronéo,” suggests soundness of mind, self-control, or a prudent understanding. This contrast in the original language emphasizes a range of Christian experience from ecstatic to sensible behavior.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

This verse’s theme can be paralleled with other ancient religious expressions where prophets and religious figures were sometimes considered mad or possessed due to their extraordinary experiences or behaviors. For instance, in Greco-Roman mythology, some followers of Dionysus exhibited ecstatic behaviors, interpreted as signs of divine possession. Similarly, in ancient Near Eastern traditions, the prophets could be seen as ecstatic figures who communicated divine messages through unusual behavior.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern psychology might interpret acts of being “beside oneself” as potential symptoms of mental health conditions. However, from a historical and cultural context, such behavior as described by Paul may have been seen as spiritual or religious ecstasy. Scientific perspectives on religious ecstasy and spiritual experiences recognize that altered states of consciousness can stem from deep religious devotion, meditation, and practices rather than pathology.

commentaries

Various biblical scholars offer different perspectives on this verse:

F.F. Bruce comments that Paul’s reference to being ‘beside ourselves’ might relate to the ecstatic experiences he had, which his opponents could have used to discredit him.
John Stott discusses the sincere anguish and heartfelt care that Paul puts into his ministry, which could be easily misconstrued by those looking to undermine his authority.
Gordon D. Fee provides an overview of Paul’s defense of his apostolic suffering and suggests that Paul sees his varied experiences as part of his authentic service to Christ and the church.
David E. Garland emphasizes the dual aspect of Paul’s ministry—being perceived as ‘mad’ due to spiritual experiences but also being entirely rational and sober-minded as he served the needs of the Corinthian believers.