What does "examine yourselves" mean in 2 Corinthians 13:5? Canonical Text “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Can you not see for yourselves that Jesus Christ is in you—unless you actually fail the test?” (2 Corinthians 13:5). Historical Setting Paul writes from Macedonia (c. A.D. 55–56) in advance of a third visit to Corinth. False apostles (11:13) had undermined his authority. Chapters 10–13 form his vigorous defense and ultimatum. The command to “examine” is therefore not a casual suggestion but an apostolic summons issued on the eve of possible church discipline (13:2). Old Testament Background Self-scrutiny is rooted in covenant life: “Let us examine and test our ways” (Lamentations 3:40); “Consider your ways” (Haggai 1:5). The Passover requirement to remove leaven (Exodus 12:15) models internal house‐cleaning later applied spiritually by Paul (1 Corinthians 5:7–8). Immediate Literary Context Verses 1–4 warn of disciplinary power validated by the resurrected Christ. Verse 6 will flip the same verb on Paul’s accusers: once they inspect themselves, they will recognize his authentic apostleship. Thus self-examination precedes the examination of others (cf. Matthew 7:5). Theological Significance 1. Assurance: Scripture never grounds assurance in past profession alone but in present reality (1 John 2:3–6). 2. Christology: The indwelling Christ is the resurrected Lord, offering empirical evidence through transformed life (Romans 6:4). 3. Ecclesiology: A self-policing church minimizes external apostolic discipline (13:10). Practical Tests Drawn from Scripture • Doctrinal fidelity (2 John 9). • Obedience (John 14:15). • Love for the brethren (1 John 3:14). • Perseverance under trial (James 1:12). • Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23). Not a Call to Morbid Introspection Paul balances the command with gospel indicatives: Christ is already “in you.” The aim is confirmation, not paralyzing doubt. Rejoicing follows successful testing (2 Corinthians 13:9, 11). Relation to the Resurrection The very capacity for self-diagnosis and moral renewal hinges on the living presence of the risen Christ (Romans 8:10–11). An empty tomb guarantees a Spirit-empowered interior audit. Early Church Commentary Chrysostom: “He bids them be their own judges; if they condemn themselves not, they need fear no accusation.” Augustine: links the verse to the sacramental self-examination before Eucharist (cf. 1 Corinthians 11:28). Connection to Church Discipline Self-examination operates as first-step discipline (Matthew 18:15). Failure necessitates corporate action, which Paul is ready to wield “with the authority the Lord gave me for building you up” (2 Corinthians 13:10). Contemporary Application 1. Personal retreats, journaling, and prayerful reading of Scripture embody the imperative. 2. Accountability relationships operationalize community testing (Hebrews 3:13). 3. Periodic doctrinal catechism guards against syncretism in a pluralistic age. Warnings and Promises “Unless you fail the test” echoes the fate of Israel in the wilderness (1 Corinthians 10:5). Conversely, those who confirm their calling “will never stumble” (2 Peter 1:10–11). Summary Definition To “examine yourselves” in 2 Corinthians 13:5 is to engage in ongoing, Spirit-led scrutiny of one’s doctrinal belief, moral conduct, and experiential union with the risen Christ, thereby confirming genuine membership in the covenant community and averting divine and apostolic discipline. |
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