What does 2 Corinthians 6:1 mean?

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We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. 2 Corinthians 6:1

Explanation

2 Corinthians 6:1 is a verse where the Apostle Paul underscores the importance of not taking the grace of God lightly. In this letter, he refers to himself and his fellow workers, suggesting that they are co-laborers with God. The use of the term “workers together” implies a sense of partnership in the Christian ministry. Paul is earnestly pleading with the Corinthians to ensure that the grace they have received from God—through Jesus—does not become ineffective or meaningless in their lives. The grace of God here is viewed as an enabling power or favor that requires a response or action from the believers. The phrase “in vain” indicates a potential wasted opportunity, urging the recipients to live in a way that reflects and honors the grace that has been bestowed upon them.

Historical Context

This passage from 2 Corinthians is part of a letter Paul wrote around A.D. 55-57. Paul is addressing issues within the church in Corinth, a cosmopolitan city in ancient Greece known for its wealth, intellectualism, and moral laxity. The Christians in Corinth were exposed to various cultural influences, including pagan religious practices and philosophical thought that could potentially lead them away from the teachings of Christ. Paul’s epistles to the Corinthians are attempts to guide, correct, and instruct the believers in how to live out their faith amidst these influences.

Theological Insights

This verse presents several theological points for consideration. Within Christian thought, the concept of grace is central. Grace is often defined as the unearned favor of God towards humanity. The verse evokes the notion of “synergy” in salvation, where human beings are expected to cooperate with divine grace. From a Calvinist perspective, it might be argued that grace is irresistible and that those truly touched by it will not receive it in vain. In contrast, an Arminian viewpoint might emphasize human free will in choosing to respond or not to God’s grace. The Catholic tradition also sees grace as a transformative force that requires human cooperation.

Practical Applications

The exhortation in this verse can lead to several practical applications in the life of believers. It suggests that followers of Christ should be actively working with God in sharing and exemplifying His message in their lives. This can translate to engaging in community service, evangelism, and displaying integrity in both personal and professional relationships. Additionally, it calls for reflection on how one’s actions and lifestyle choices either affirm or negate the transformative power of God’s grace which they have claimed to receive.

Cross-References

Ephesians 2:8-9 (KJV): “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.”
Galatians 6:9 (KJV): “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.”
1 Corinthians 15:10 (KJV): “But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.”

Language Study

The Greek term for “workers together” is “synergoi,” which emphasizes co-laboring or cooperation. The word “grace” in Greek is “charis,” referring to a gift or favor one receives without merit. “In vain” translates as “kenon,” meaning empty or to no purpose. The original language conveys a profound understanding of relationship and responsibility in the context of divine-human interaction.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparison with other ancient religions and myths, Christianity’s concept of grace as a gift from a monotheistic God is unique. Many other traditions, such as those in Greco-Roman culture, held to appeasement-based relationships with the gods where humans attempted to earn favor through sacrifices and rituals. The Christian notion of grace, however, presents a gift one cannot earn, leading to a different kind of reciprocal relationship.

Scientific Perspectives

While grace is not a concept within the purview of scientific inquiry, modern psychology might lend insight into the behavioral aspects of this verse. Psychological studies on motivation and behavior change suggest that altruism and purposeful living (like that advocated by Paul in response to grace) can have profound effects on individual wellbeing and societal harmony.

commentaries

Different biblical commentators have diverse views on 2 Corinthians 6:1. For instance:

John Calvin speaks to the earnestness of Paul’s plea and the danger of having received grace only to squander it.
Matthew Henry highlights the corporate responsibility of believers to work with God and for God, aligning with His will and purposes.
The Pulpit Commentary discusses the “fellowship in service” aspect, elucidating the idea of divine-human partnership in ministry. Each provides a nuanced understanding of how the grace of God should activate believers into a living response that evidences the power of transformation inherent in the Christian faith.