Chapter Study & Analysis
Overview
2 Corinthians 13 concludes the letter with a final warning to the unrepentant and an exhortation to self-examination. Paul ends with a prayer for the church’s perfection and the famous Trinitarian benediction of grace, love, and communion.
CONTEMPORARY APPLICATIONS
1. Self-Examination: "Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith" (v. 5). We should periodically audit our own spiritual life, ensuring that Christ truly dwells in us and our fruits match our profession.
2. Living in Peace: We are called to "be of one mind, live in peace" (v. 11). The God of love and peace is present where His people strive for harmony and mutual edification.
3. The Grace of the Trinity: The closing benediction (v. 14) reminds us that our spiritual life depends on the grace of Jesus, the love of the Father, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit.
Practical Lessons
FORMAL PRAYER
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with us all. Help us to examine ourselves and to be perfect, even as Thou art perfect, our God and Savior. Amen.