What is the meaning of 2 Corinthians 13:3? Since you are demanding proof Paul addresses a faction in Corinth that questions his apostolic credentials. • Earlier, they had belittled his bodily presence and speaking ability (2 Corinthians 10:10), but now they openly ask for “proof.” • Paul already laid out evidence: the transformed lives of the believers themselves (2 Corinthians 3:2-3), the signs and wonders performed among them (2 Corinthians 12:12; Acts 19:11-12), and the very founding of the church (1 Corinthians 9:2). • By demanding yet another sign, the Corinthians are echoing Israel’s pattern of testing God despite ample evidence (Exodus 17:2; Matthew 16:1-4). That Christ is speaking through me Paul’s claim rests on Christ’s direct commissioning (Acts 9:15-16; Galatians 1:11-12). • To reject Paul’s words is to reject Christ’s authority (Luke 10:16). • The consistency of Paul’s gospel with the other apostles (Galatians 2:7-9) and the Spirit’s confirmation in the churches (1 Thessalonians 2:13) demonstrate that Christ speaks through him. • Scripture itself recognizes Paul’s letters as inspired and weighty (2 Peter 3:15-16). He is not weak in dealing with you Christ’s meekness should never be mistaken for impotence. • He once entered Jerusalem on a colt (Matthew 21:5), yet He also overturned tables in righteous zeal (John 2:15-17). • The risen Lord disciplines His church when needed (Revelation 2:18-23). • Paul warns that, if necessary, he will exercise Christ-given authority to judge unrepentant sin (2 Corinthians 13:2; 1 Corinthians 5:4-5). but is powerful among you Evidence of Christ’s power already saturates Corinth: • Spiritual gifts abound (1 Corinthians 1:7; 12:4-11). • Former sinners are now “washed…sanctified…justified” (1 Corinthians 6:11). • The gospel has pulled down strongholds and arguments (2 Corinthians 10:4-5). • Resurrection power, the same that raised Jesus (Ephesians 1:19-20), sustains their daily walk. Paul’s confidence is that this power will also back his corrective actions if the Corinthians persist in rebellion. summary 2 Corinthians 13:3 reminds the church that Christ’s living power validates Paul’s ministry. The demand for proof is unnecessary, because transformed lives, apostolic signs, and the Spirit’s work already testify that Christ speaks through him. The Savior who once appeared meek is never weak; His authority disciplines and restores, demonstrating divine power right in the midst of His people. |
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