What does 2 Corinthians 13:1 mean?

Explanation

2 Corinthians 13:1 indicates the apostle Paul's intention to visit the Corinthian church for the third time. Paul is invoking a legal principle from the Jewish law that a matter is confirmed or established on the evidence of two or three witnesses (Deuteronomy 19:15).

The verse implies that Paul's multiple visits serve as a form of testimony or evidence regarding the truth and substance of his message, his authority as an apostle, and the accountability of the Corinthian believers.

Historical Context

Paul wrote 2 Corinthians as a follow-up to his previous correspondence with the church in Corinth, a city known for its diverse population and cosmopolitan culture.

The relationship between Paul and this church was complex and sometimes tense, with issues pertaining to church discipline, moral behavior, the acceptance of Paul's authority, and the influence of false teachers.

This verse is set against the backdrop of Paul's dealing with the challenges facing the early Christian community in Corinth.

Theological Insights

The verse touches upon several theological aspects:

• The importance of objective verification in matters of accusation and discipline.
• The authority of church leaders, represented by Paul, in guiding and correcting their congregations.
• The notion of apostolic witness as a means of establishing theological truths and moral conduct.

Different denominations may emphasize varying aspects of these theological points.

Practical Applications

This verse encourages the need for accountability and verification in church matters and interpersonal relations. Having multiple, credible witnesses can ensure that decisions and judgments are fair and grounded in community consensus.

In a broader sense, it calls for a due process approach to conflict resolution and highlights the importance of transparent leadership.

Cross-References

• Deuteronomy 19:15: "One witness shall not rise up against a man for any iniquity, or for any sin, in any sin that he sinneth: at the mouth of two witnesses, or at the mouth of three witnesses, shall the matter be established."
• Matthew 18:16: "But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the phrase "In the mouth of two or three witnesses" (ἐπὶ στόματος δύο μαρτύρων ἢ τριῶν) uses the term "μαρτύρων" (marturon), which means 'witnesses'.

The term "στόματος" (stomatos) corresponds to 'mouth', signifying speech or testimony. This reinforces the legal and testimonial nature of the statement.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient cultures and religious systems, the idea of confirming a matter with multiple witnesses was common.

For example, in ancient Mesopotamian and Hebrew legal traditions, multiple witnesses were required to confirm legal agreements, testimonies, and transactions.

This principle was aimed at preventing fraud, perjury, and injustice.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse does not directly relate to scientific ideas, the principle of requiring multiple witnesses or evidence aligns with the scientific method, which values reproducibility and confirmation through multiple observations or experiments.

commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians offer insights on this passage:

• John Calvin suggests that this principle of witnesses ensures equity and prevents false accusations.
• Matthew Henry comments that Paul is alluding to the firm establishment of his apostolic authority and his resolve to correct errors in the church.
• Some modern commentators highlight the connection between Paul's use of this principle and the early church's judicial procedures when dealing with discipline and disputes.