What is the meaning of 2 Corinthians 6:13?

As a fair exchange

“ We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians. Our hearts are open wide. ” (2 Corinthians 6:11). Paul has already poured himself out; now he asks for reciprocity.

• Exchange is not about payment, but about relationship—he has loved them first (1 John 4:19).

• Scripture often highlights the balance of giving and receiving: “Give, and it will be given to you” (Luke 6:38).

• Paul’s ministry to Corinth cost him hardship (2 Corinthians 6:4-10); the “fair” response is their trust and affection.

• Similar appeals appear in Philippians 4:17, where Paul seeks “the fruit that increases to your account.”

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I speak as to my children

Paul claims the gentle authority of a spiritual father.

• He first birthed them in the gospel (1 Corinthians 4:14-15).

• Like any parent, he corrects and comforts: “My children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth” (Galatians 4:19).

• Father-language carries tenderness: “You know how we exhorted… each one of you, as a father does his own children” (1 Thessalonians 2:11-12).

• The family tone removes any sense of manipulation; it invites trust (3 John 4).

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open wide your hearts also

Now comes the simple request: match Paul’s openness with their own.

• To “open wide” means removing barriers—bitterness, suspicion, worldly influences (compare 2 Corinthians 7:2-3).

• Genuine affection among believers is commanded: “Love one another with brotherly affection” (Romans 12:10).

• Opening the heart to Paul ultimately signals openness to Christ’s message (2 Corinthians 5:20-21).

• The call resonates with Jesus’ invitation: “Remain in My love” (John 15:9) and Peter’s urge: “Love one another deeply, from a pure heart” (1 Peter 1:22).

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summary

Paul has emptied his heart for the Corinthians; fairness asks them to do the same. Speaking as a loving father, he urges them to tear down emotional walls and embrace him—and the gospel he carries—with full, unrestricted affection. Reciprocal, family-style love is the fitting response to Christ’s servants and to Christ Himself.