What is the meaning of 2 Corinthians 13:13? All • Paul deliberately begins with a sweeping word—“All”—to stress the total participation of the wider body of Christ. None are silent, none are left out (cf. Romans 1:8; 2 Corinthians 1:1). • This inclusivity reminds the Corinthian believers that their struggles, progress, and ministry are matters of family concern for every congregation (Philippians 2:25–26; Colossians 4:7–9). • Unity, not isolation, is the Spirit’s design (Ephesians 4:4–6), so “all” signals a chorus of shared affection rather than scattered solo voices. the saints • “Saints” refers to ordinary Christians—men, women, servants, leaders—whom God has set apart in Christ (1 Corinthians 1:2; Hebrews 10:10). • The term emphasizes identity before activity: they are holy because Christ is holy in them (1 Peter 1:15–16; Revelation 14:12). • Calling fellow believers “saints” lifts conversations above mere social ties and places relationships in the realm of covenant family. It motivates purity (Ephesians 5:3) and mutual respect (Romans 15:25–26). send you greetings • A greeting bridges distance with affection and solidarity (Romans 16:16; 1 Corinthians 16:19–20). • It carries three implied messages: – Affirmation: “We recognize you as true brothers and sisters.” – Encouragement: “We stand with you in trials and triumphs” (2 Corinthians 8:1–5). – Accountability: “We expect you to walk worthy of the gospel we share” (Philippians 1:27). • Such greetings flowed through letters, travelers, and verbal reports—ancient equivalents of today’s calls or texts—demonstrating that love must be expressed, not merely felt (1 John 3:18). • By conveying these greetings, Paul models practical ways churches can nurture fellowship across geography and culture. summary 2 Corinthians 13:13 condenses a rich theology of community into one brief sentence. Every believer (“all”) who is set apart in Christ (“the saints”) actively expresses covenant love (“send you greetings”) to strengthen brothers and sisters afar. The verse calls modern Christians to the same intentional, affectionate unity that marked the early church. |
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