What does "read or understand" reveal about Paul's expectations for the Corinthians? The Verse at a Glance “For we do not write you anything other than what you can read and understand. And I hope you will understand fully.” (2 Corinthians 1:13) Paul’s Expectation of Comprehension • Paul presumes the believers can literally “read” (anaginōskō) and “understand” (epiginōskō) his words. • He does not obscure truth behind hidden meanings; he trusts their mental and spiritual capacity. • The phrase “I hope you will understand fully” signals confidence that their current grasp will grow into full comprehension. Clarity over Concealment • Paul rejects any accusation that he employs double talk (cf. 2 Corinthians 1:17–18—“Yes and No” charges). • His transparency reflects a godly sincerity (2 Corinthians 1:12). • Just as Jesus spoke plainly to His disciples about the Father (John 16:25), Paul assumes clarity is the norm for apostolic teaching. Connection to Previous Correspondence • 1 Corinthians 5:9,11—Paul expected them to “associate” instructions with prior letters. • 1 Corinthians 2:12–14—The Spirit enables believers to “know” (oida) the things freely given by God; Paul trusts this ongoing ministry. • 2 Corinthians 3:2—“You yourselves are our letter…read by everyone.” Their lives already demonstrate their capacity to “read” God’s work. Marks of Spiritual Maturity Paul Anticipates 1. Literacy in Scripture and apostolic teaching—enough to process what is written. 2. Spiritual discernment empowered by the Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:14–15). 3. Growth trajectory—moving from partial to full understanding (Philippians 1:9–10). 4. Willingness to test and verify truth openly (Acts 17:11). Why Paul Can Expect This • The new covenant promises the law written on hearts (Jeremiah 31:33; 2 Corinthians 3:3). • God Himself opens minds to understand (Luke 24:45), a work Paul assumes is active among genuine believers. • Apostolic authority carries accompanying illumination (1 Thessalonians 2:13). Implications for Us Today • Scripture is meant to be read plainly; complexity never excuses avoidance. • Believers should expect growth from initial reading to deeper insight. • Leaders ought to communicate truth without obscurity, modeling Paul’s integrity. • Confidence in the Spirit’s teaching ministry fuels both writing and reading of the Word. |
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