What does 2 Corinthians 6:11 mean?

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O ye Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our heart is enlarged. 2 Corinthians 6:11

Explanation

2 Corinthians 6:11, spoken by the Apostle Paul, uses metaphorical language to express his deep affection and openness toward the believers in Corinth. When he says, “our mouth is open unto you,” he is indicating a readiness to speak freely, honestly, and openly without holding back. In saying “our heart is enlarged,” he means that his capacity to love and care for the Corinthians has grown; he has an abundance of affection for them. This verse serves as an appeal for the Corinthians to reciprocate the same openness and affection toward Paul and his companions.

Historical Context

This verse comes from Paul’s second letter to the church in Corinth. The context of 2 Corinthians is one in which Paul is defending his apostleship and addressing the issues that have arisen within the Corinthian church, including challenges to his authority and teaching. The church in Corinth was a diverse community within a cosmopolitan trade city of the Roman Empire and had to contend with a variety of cultural influences, including idolatry and immorality.

Theological Insights

Within the Christian tradition, this verse emphasizes the virtue of openness and expansiveness in Christian love, where ministry is not just about teaching or correcting but also about mutual affection and vulnerability. These qualities are seen as reflective of God’s love for humanity. From a theological perspective, the Apostle Paul’s words can also be understood as an embodiment of Christ’s love, which surpasses mere words and extends generously to the spiritual family.

Practical Applications

In a practical sense, 2 Corinthians 6:11 can inspire individuals to be transparent and loving in their interactions with others, particularly within their faith communities. It encourages believers to be open in communication, to foster trust and unity, and to promote a culture of heartfelt care and concern for one another’s well-being. It also challenges individuals to enlarge their hearts, moving beyond personal limits to show a greater capacity for understanding and patience.

Cross-References

2 Corinthians 7:3: “I speak not this to condemn you: for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts to die and live with you.”
1 Corinthians 4:14-15: “I write not these things to shame you, but as my beloved sons I warn you. For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.”
Philippians 1:7-8: “Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace. For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ.”

Language Study

The key phrase “our heart is enlarged” is derived from the Greek word “platynō,” which means “to make wide” or “to enlarge.” This can refer to a physical broadening, but in this context, it metaphorically implies an expansion of emotional capacity or affection. The original Greek language emphasizes the deepening of relational and emotional bonds between Paul and the Corinthian believers.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The metaphor of an “open mouth” and an “enlarged heart” can be found in different cultural expressions that emphasize honesty and expansive love. Ancient philosophies and religions also valued the concept of broadening one’s capacity to love and to speak truthfully. The Greek philosophers, for example, emphasized the need for parrhesia, or frank speech, in the pursuit of virtue and wisdom. Similar concepts of expansive love and openness can be found in eastern traditions like Buddhism and Hinduism.

Scientific Perspectives

From a psychological viewpoint, openness and the capacity to love reflect healthy emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills essential for building positive relationships. Modern science supports the benefits of being emotionally open and having a strong capacity for affection, which can lead to improved mental health and a greater sense of community. Paul’s metaphor can be appreciated for its alignment with these principles, as it promotes emotional expression and connection.

Commentaries

Biblical scholars and theologians interpret this verse as Paul’s heartfelt plea for mutual affection and open communication. Many commentaries acknowledge that Paul is sharing his vulnerability with the Corinthian church, demonstrating that leadership within the church is not detached but deeply personally invested. The verse is often noted for its rhetoric of love and its personal tone, which contrasts with the stern admonitions Paul sometimes gives. Commentaries typically highlight this verse’s function in setting up the subsequent appeal where Paul urges the Corinthians to be also open and to avoid being unequally yoked with unbelievers (2 Corinthians 6:14).