What does 2 Corinthians 13:7 mean?

Explanation

2 Corinthians 13:7 presents a sincere desire by Paul, the Apostle, for the Corinthians to exhibit good behavior and moral uprightness.

The verse exemplifies the Christian principle of wishing for others to do good for the sake of goodness itself, rather than to prove a point or to bolster one's own image.

Paul is essentially saying that his wish is for the Corinthians to avoid wrongdoing.

He stresses that his concern is not for his own vindication as an apostle or for the proof of his apostolic authority, but rather for their own benefit, that they might do what is honest and right.

The mention of being "as reprobates" implies that even if Paul and his companions are considered failed or disapproved in the eyes of the Corinthians, it doesn't diminish their desire for the Corinthians to live honestly.

Historical Context

This verse is from the Second Epistle to the Corinthians, a letter written by Paul to the church in Corinth around A.D. 55-57.

Paul had founded the church in Corinth during his second missionary journey and had a continuous relationship with them, marked by both affection and challenge.

The Corinthian church was in a complex and morally challenging environment, influenced by Greek culture and Roman rule.

Greco-Roman society was known for its moral laxity and diverse religious landscape.

The epistle addresses various issues, including divisions, immorality, and challenges to Paul's apostolic authority.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse touches upon several key Christian doctrines:

• Sanctification: It reflects God's desire for the believer's holiness and moral conduct.
• Sincerity of Motive: Paul illustrates that the intention behind his prayers and actions is rooted in concern for others rather than self-justification.
• Humility: This verse teaches about serving God and others without seeking personal glory or approval.

Different Christian denominations uphold these values, although the emphasis on each may vary. For instance, Reformed theology might focus on the sovereignty of God in sanctification, while Wesleyan theology emphasizes cooperative grace in the pursuit of holiness.

Practical Applications

In a practical sense, this verse encourages Christians to:

• Foster genuine concern for the moral well-being of others rather than a desire to appear righteous.
• Pray for others' good, irrespective of personal gain or reputation.
• Act with honesty in all circumstances, even when facing criticism or ostracization.

Cross-References

• 1 Corinthians 10:31 - "Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God."
• Philippians 2:3 - "Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves."
• 1 Thessalonians 5:22 - "Abstain from all appearance of evil."

Language Study

The key words in this verse are:

• "Evil" (Gr. kakos) - Generally denotes moral badness or wickedness.
• "Approved" (Gr. dokimos) - Often refers to being proven genuine or authenticated, especially through testing.
• "Honest" (Gr. kalos) - Implies what is good, beneficial, or honorable.
• "Reprobates" (Gr. adokimos) - Means not standing the test, unapproved, or rejected.

These terms are significant as they reveal the emphasis on moral integrity and uprightness.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparison to other ancient religions and cultural practices, Paul's teachings were revolutionary in that they placed an intrinsic value on the ethical living of individuals rooted in a relationship with God, rather than mere external adherence to religious norms or rituals.

Scientific Perspectives

While this verse does not directly interact with modern scientific understandings, the ethical implications resonate with psychological studies that highlight the importance of intrinsic motivation and the positive effects of genuine, ethical behavior on human well-being.

Commentaries

Biblical commentaries highlight Paul's pastoral concern for the church and his dedication to the Corinthians' spiritual growth. They note that Paul's emphasis on the Corinthians doing what is right regardless of perception is a call to genuine Christian discipleship.

Commentators often emphasize the distinction between mere outward appearance and true moral substance in Christian behavior.