2 corinthians 13:7 - Now I pray to God that you do no evil; not that we may appear approved, but that you may do that which is honorable, though we are as reprobate.
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What does "2 corinthians 13:7" mean?
This verse, 2 Corinthians 13:7, is packed with meaning and requires understanding the context of Paul's letter to the Corinthian church. Here's a breakdown:
"Now I pray to God that you do no evil...": Paul's primary concern is for the Corinthian believers themselves. He earnestly prays they will avoid sin and wrongdoing. This isn't a superficial wish, but a deep desire for their spiritual well-being.
"...not that we may appear approved...": This is a crucial point. Paul emphasizes his motive is not about proving his own apostolic authority or credibility. He's not trying to make himself look good by their good behavior. He's not using their obedience as a validation of his ministry.
"...but that you may do that which is honorable...": This is the core of his desire. He wants them to act righteously and honorably before God, regardless of how it reflects on him. His focus is on their ethical conduct and spiritual integrity.
"...though we are as reprobate.": This is the most challenging part of the verse. "Reprobate" (Greek: adokimos) can mean unapproved, disqualified, or even rejected. In this context, it means that even if Paul and his companions appeared to be weak or even rejected by the Corinthians, his desire remained that they do good.
In essence, Paul is saying:
"My prayer is that you will all live lives free from sin, not so that I can look good or prove my authority, but because it is the right thing to do. Even if it makes me look weak or even rejected (because I am willing to be humble and not assert my authority), I still want you to choose the path of goodness and righteousness."
Key Takeaways:
Selflessness: Paul prioritizes the Corinthians' well-being above his own reputation.
Focus on Righteousness: His primary concern is their moral and spiritual health.
Humility: He is willing to appear weak or even rejected if it means they will choose to do good.
Authenticity: It is more important that they live in a honorable way rather than just putting on a show for appearances.
Why would Paul say "though we are as reprobate"?
There are several possibilities:
Irony: Paul may be using irony to emphasize his genuine concern for the Corinthians. He's saying, "Even if you think I'm worthless, I still want what's best for you."
Acknowledging Perception: He could be acknowledging that some in Corinth were questioning his authority or viewing him negatively. He's addressing their doubts, but still focusing on their good.
Submission for Their Benefit: He is willing to let go of his position of authority in order for them to grow in faith.
In Conclusion:
This verse is a powerful example of selfless leadership and a genuine concern for the spiritual well-being of others. It highlights the importance of prioritizing righteousness and humility, even when it means sacrificing personal recognition or authority. It is a reminder that our focus should always be on doing what is right, regardless of how it might affect our own image or status.
2 corinthians 13:7 - Now I pray to God that you do no evil; not that we may appear approved, but that you may do that which is honorable, though we are as reprobate.
What does "2 corinthians 13:7" mean?
This verse, 2 Corinthians 13:7, is packed with meaning and requires understanding the context of Paul's letter to the Corinthian church. Here's a breakdown:
"Now I pray to God that you do no evil...": Paul's primary concern is for the Corinthian believers themselves. He earnestly prays they will avoid sin and wrongdoing. This isn't a superficial wish, but a deep desire for their spiritual well-being.
"...not that we may appear approved...": This is a crucial point. Paul emphasizes his motive is not about proving his own apostolic authority or credibility. He's not trying to make himself look good by their good behavior. He's not using their obedience as a validation of his ministry.
"...but that you may do that which is honorable...": This is the core of his desire. He wants them to act righteously and honorably before God, regardless of how it reflects on him. His focus is on their ethical conduct and spiritual integrity.
"...though we are as reprobate.": This is the most challenging part of the verse. "Reprobate" (Greek: adokimos) can mean unapproved, disqualified, or even rejected. In this context, it means that even if Paul and his companions appeared to be weak or even rejected by the Corinthians, his desire remained that they do good.
In essence, Paul is saying:
"My prayer is that you will all live lives free from sin, not so that I can look good or prove my authority, but because it is the right thing to do. Even if it makes me look weak or even rejected (because I am willing to be humble and not assert my authority), I still want you to choose the path of goodness and righteousness."
Key Takeaways:
Selflessness: Paul prioritizes the Corinthians' well-being above his own reputation.
Focus on Righteousness: His primary concern is their moral and spiritual health.
Humility: He is willing to appear weak or even rejected if it means they will choose to do good.
Authenticity: It is more important that they live in a honorable way rather than just putting on a show for appearances.
Why would Paul say "though we are as reprobate"?
There are several possibilities:
Irony: Paul may be using irony to emphasize his genuine concern for the Corinthians. He's saying, "Even if you think I'm worthless, I still want what's best for you."
Acknowledging Perception: He could be acknowledging that some in Corinth were questioning his authority or viewing him negatively. He's addressing their doubts, but still focusing on their good.
Submission for Their Benefit: He is willing to let go of his position of authority in order for them to grow in faith.
In Conclusion:
This verse is a powerful example of selfless leadership and a genuine concern for the spiritual well-being of others. It highlights the importance of prioritizing righteousness and humility, even when it means sacrificing personal recognition or authority. It is a reminder that our focus should always be on doing what is right, regardless of how it might affect our own image or status.