This verse, 2 Corinthians 13:11, is Paul's parting wish and encouragement to the Corinthian church. Let's break down each phrase:
"Finally, brothers, rejoice." - Paul is wrapping up his letter. He's telling them to be joyful, not just in spite of their struggles but perhaps even because of the positive steps they've taken towards reconciliation and growth. Rejoicing is a sign of faith and trust in God, even when things are difficult.
"Be perfected." - This can also be translated as "aim for perfection" or "be restored." It's not suggesting they can become flawlessly perfect in this life, but rather that they should strive for spiritual maturity and wholeness. It's an ongoing process of growth and correction. Think of it as aligning their lives more closely with God's will.
"Be comforted." - This could be translated as "accept encouragement" or "take courage". The Corinthians had been facing challenges and divisions. Paul is urging them to receive comfort and strength from God and from one another. It's about finding solace and hope, especially after a period of difficulty or correction.
"Be of the same mind." - This emphasizes unity. Paul wants them to think alike, not necessarily in every detail of opinion, but in their core beliefs and values as Christians. It's about having a shared purpose and vision based on their faith in Christ. Agreement in truth and love helps build community.
"Live in peace." - This is a call for harmonious relationships. It means putting aside their differences, forgiving each other, and resolving conflicts in a way that honors God. Peace is not just the absence of conflict, but a positive state of unity and goodwill.
"And the God of love and peace will be with you." - This is a promise and a blessing. If they follow the preceding instructions – if they rejoice, strive for growth, accept comfort, aim for unity, and live in peace – then God, who embodies love and peace, will be present with them and bless them. It suggests that God's presence and favor are contingent, in part, on their obedience and relationships with one another.
In summary, this verse is a beautiful culmination of Paul's letter. He's urging the Corinthians to move forward with joy, strive for spiritual maturity, encourage one another, maintain unity, and live in peace. By doing so, they will experience the presence and blessing of God, who is the source of love and peace. It's a call to action and a promise of God's faithfulness to those who seek to live according to His will.
This verse, 2 Corinthians 13:11, is Paul's parting wish and encouragement to the Corinthian church. Let's break down each phrase:
"Finally, brothers, rejoice." - Paul is wrapping up his letter. He's telling them to be joyful, not just in spite of their struggles but perhaps even because of the positive steps they've taken towards reconciliation and growth. Rejoicing is a sign of faith and trust in God, even when things are difficult.
"Be perfected." - This can also be translated as "aim for perfection" or "be restored." It's not suggesting they can become flawlessly perfect in this life, but rather that they should strive for spiritual maturity and wholeness. It's an ongoing process of growth and correction. Think of it as aligning their lives more closely with God's will.
"Be comforted." - This could be translated as "accept encouragement" or "take courage". The Corinthians had been facing challenges and divisions. Paul is urging them to receive comfort and strength from God and from one another. It's about finding solace and hope, especially after a period of difficulty or correction.
"Be of the same mind." - This emphasizes unity. Paul wants them to think alike, not necessarily in every detail of opinion, but in their core beliefs and values as Christians. It's about having a shared purpose and vision based on their faith in Christ. Agreement in truth and love helps build community.
"Live in peace." - This is a call for harmonious relationships. It means putting aside their differences, forgiving each other, and resolving conflicts in a way that honors God. Peace is not just the absence of conflict, but a positive state of unity and goodwill.
"And the God of love and peace will be with you." - This is a promise and a blessing. If they follow the preceding instructions – if they rejoice, strive for growth, accept comfort, aim for unity, and live in peace – then God, who embodies love and peace, will be present with them and bless them. It suggests that God's presence and favor are contingent, in part, on their obedience and relationships with one another.
In summary, this verse is a beautiful culmination of Paul's letter. He's urging the Corinthians to move forward with joy, strive for spiritual maturity, encourage one another, maintain unity, and live in peace. By doing so, they will experience the presence and blessing of God, who is the source of love and peace. It's a call to action and a promise of God's faithfulness to those who seek to live according to His will.