Bible Commentaries
2 Corinthians 13

Verses 1-14

2 Corinthians 13:1 . This is the third time I am coming to you. Compare the following texts. Acts 18:1; Acts 20:2-3; Acts 21:13. The difficulty here is removed by the admission, that his second coming was on a journey, and therefore not counted when he speaks of their having a second benefit. 2 Corinthians 1:15.

2 Corinthians 13:5 . Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith. Those are here exhorted who had indulged in fornication and uncleanness, 2 Corinthians 12:21, and also the false apostles who had required a proof of Christ speaking by him. He had complied with this. Now he required them to give proof whether they were in the faith, and holy in their practice, lest on God’s examination, they should be found reprobates. The Greek adokimoi signifies untried. It alludes to the touchstone, or tests of silver and other metals. It is rendered castaway in 1 Corinthians 9:27; and surely this caution was designed to prevent so great a calamity. Calvin lays no stress upon the text, from a leaning towards the doctrine of reprobation.

2 Corinthians 13:11 . Be perfect: aim at carrying every grace to the highest possible perfection. The word is often applied to the perfecting of a building. It is applied also to the mending or perfecting of a broken net. Matthew 4:21. Mark 1:19. See 2 Corinthians 7:1.

2 Corinthians 13:12 . A holy kiss. The phliema agion of antiquity was this. The moment the blessing was pronounced, the women gave each other a kiss; for they sat separate from the men. The men often kissed each other on the cheek. This is called also the kiss of peace.