Lexical Summary katartisis: Completion, equipping, preparation, restoration Original Word: καταρτισμός Strong's Exhaustive Concordance perfection. From katartizo; thorough equipment (subjectively) -- perfection. see GREEK katartizo HELPS Word-studies Cognate: 2676 katártisis (a feminine noun) – properly, a particular brand (type) of adjustment – overcoming "mental dislocations" brought on by arrogance (refusal to repent). It is used only in 2 Cor 13:9. NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom katartizó Definition a preparing, an equipping NASB Translation made complete (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 2676: κατάρτισιςκατάρτισις, καταρτισεως, ἡ (καταρτίζω, which see), a strengthening, perfecting, of the soul (Vulg.consummatio): 2 Corinthians 13:9. (a training, disciplining, instructing, Plutarch, Themistius, 2, 7 (variant); Alex. 7, 1.) Topical Lexicon Placement in the Pauline ArgumentPaul employs the word in 2 Corinthians 13:9 while concluding his correspondence with a congregation troubled by factions, moral lapses, and doubts about apostolic authority. By writing, “For we are glad whenever we are weak but you are strong, and our prayer is for your perfection”, he gathers up the entire purpose of his corrective letters: not merely to settle quarrels, but to see the Corinthians completely restored, sound, and fit for service. The noun highlights the desired end of the apostolic ministry—believers brought to a stable, mature condition that reflects the character of Christ. A Wider Web of Related Terms Although 2676 itself appears only once, it belongs to a family of words that illuminates its sense: These cognates portray fishermen repairing torn nets, a shepherd resetting a broken limb, or a craftsman fitting joints perfectly together. Together they trace the journey from damage to usefulness—an image Paul transfers to the spiritual realm. The Goal of Apostolic Ministry 1. Doctrinal soundness – False teaching had frayed the fabric of Corinthian faith. Perfection involves realignment with revealed truth (2 Corinthians 11:3-4). Pastoral Dynamics Paul prays for what he also labors toward. Prayer and discipline converge: exhortation (2 Corinthians 13:2), self-examination (13:5), and benediction (13:14) all serve the single end of katartisis. Shepherds today imitate this pattern when they combine intercession, instruction, correction, and encouragement for the complete adjustment of Christ’s flock. Sanctification and the Notion of “Perfection” The term does not teach sinless impeccability in the present age but a progressive, grace-enabled wholeness: Thus katartisis describes both a present process and an anticipated completion, holding believers in tension between what is already secured in Christ and what is yet to be fully manifested. Historical Echoes in the Early Church Patristic writers, especially Clement of Rome and Ignatius of Antioch, echo Paul’s concern by urging congregations toward “restoration” of peace and order when schisms threatened witness. The concept also influenced early catechetical practices: converts were “adjusted” to the pattern of sound words before baptism, reflecting the demand for doctrinal and moral wholeness. Contemporary Ministry Implications • Counseling: addressing broken relationships in the body with the goal of restoration rather than mere conflict management. Personal Reflection Paul’s single use of katartisis summons every disciple to ask: Where do I still need mending? Am I open to the Spirit’s tools—Scripture, fellowship, and godly oversight—so that my life may increasingly display the order, strength, and beauty worthy of the gospel? Forms and Transliterations καταρτισιν κατάρτισιν katartisin katártisinLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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