2 Corinthians 6 — King James Version

Verse 1

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

The apostle, with others, proved themselves faithful ministers of Christ, by their unblamable life and behaviour.

The gospel is a word of grace sounding in our ears. The gospel day is a day of salvation, the means of grace the means of salvation, the offers of the gospel the offers of salvation, and the present time the proper time to accept these offers. The morrow is none of ours: we know not what will be on the morrow, nor where we shall be. We now enjoy a day of grace; then let all be careful not to neglect it. Ministers of the gospel should look upon themselves as God's servants, and act in every thing suitably to that character. The apostle did so, by much patience in afflictions, by acting from good principles, and by due temper and behaviour. Believers, in this world, need the grace of God, to arm them against temptations, so as to bear the good report of men without pride; and so as to bear their reproaches with patience. They have nothing in themselves, but possess all things in Christ. Of such differences is a Christian's life made up, and through such a variety of conditions and reports, is our way to heaven; and we should be careful in all things to approve ourselves to God. The gospel, when faithfully preached, and fully received, betters the condition even of the poorest. They save what before they riotously spent, and diligently employ their time to useful purposes. They save and gain by religion, and thus are made rich, both for the world to come and for this, when compared with their sinful, profligate state, before they received the gospel.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

We then not only beseech, but as fellow - labourers with you, who are working out your own salvation, do also exhort you, not to receive the grace of God - Which we have been now describing. In vain - We receive it by faith; and not in vain, if we add to this, persevering holiness.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

Assisting.He has repeated the instructions of embassy with which the ministers of the gospel have been furnished by God. After they have faithfully communicated these instructions, they must also use their endeavor, that they may be carried into effect,in order that their labor may not be in vain. They must, I say, add continual exhortation’s,that their embassy may be efficacious. This is what he means byσυνεργοῦντες, (fellow-workers,) that is, devoted to the advancement of the work; for it is not enough toteach, if you do not alsourge. In this way, the particleσύν would have a relation to God, or to the embassy, which he assigns to his servants. For the doctrine of the gospel is helped by exhortations, so as not to be without effect, and ministers connect their endeavors with God’s commission;as it is the part of an ambassador to enforce by arguments, what he brings forward in the name of his prince.The particle σύν may also be taken as referring to the endeavors of ministers in common; for if they do the Lord’s work in good earnest, they must mutually lend a helping hand to each other, so as to give assistance to each other. I rather prefer, however, the former exposition. Chrysostom interprets it as referring to the hearers, with whom ministers arefellow-workers, when they rouse them up from slothfulness and indolence.Ministers are here taught, that it is not enough simply to advance doctrine. They must also labor that it may be received by the hearers, and that not once merely, but continually. For as they are messengers between God and men, the first duty devolving upon them is, to make offerof the grace of God,and thesecond is, to strive with all their might, that it may not be offered in vain.

McArther Bible Commentary

to receive the grace of God in vain. Most of the Corinthians were saved but hindered by legalistic teaching regarding sanctification (see notes on 2Co 11:3; Gal 6:1). Some were not truly saved but deceived by a gospel of works (cf. 2Co 13:5; Gal 5:4), which was being taught by the false teachers. In either case, Paul's proclamation of the gospel of grace would not have been having its desired effect, and he would have had cause for serious concern that his many months of ministry at Corinth were for nothing. Both cases also prevented the people from effectively assuming any "ministry of reconciliation."

Bible Cross References

1 Samuel 14:45 Acts 11:23 1 Corinthians 3:9 2 Corinthians 5:20 1 Thessalonians 3:5 Hebrews 4:1 Hebrews 12:15

Verse 2

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

The apostle, with others, proved themselves faithful ministers of Christ, by their unblamable life and behaviour.

The gospel is a word of grace sounding in our ears. The gospel day is a day of salvation, the means of grace the means of salvation, the offers of the gospel the offers of salvation, and the present time the proper time to accept these offers. The morrow is none of ours: we know not what will be on the morrow, nor where we shall be. We now enjoy a day of grace; then let all be careful not to neglect it. Ministers of the gospel should look upon themselves as God's servants, and act in every thing suitably to that character. The apostle did so, by much patience in afflictions, by acting from good principles, and by due temper and behaviour. Believers, in this world, need the grace of God, to arm them against temptations, so as to bear the good report of men without pride; and so as to bear their reproaches with patience. They have nothing in themselves, but possess all things in Christ. Of such differences is a Christian's life made up, and through such a variety of conditions and reports, is our way to heaven; and we should be careful in all things to approve ourselves to God. The gospel, when faithfully preached, and fully received, betters the condition even of the poorest. They save what before they riotously spent, and diligently employ their time to useful purposes. They save and gain by religion, and thus are made rich, both for the world to come and for this, when compared with their sinful, profligate state, before they received the gospel.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

For he saith - The sense is, As of old there was a particular time wherein God was pleased to pour out his peculiar blessing, so there is now. And this is the particular time: this is a time of peculiar blessing. (Isaiah 49:8) .

John Calvin Bible Commentary

For he saith, In an acceptable time.He quotes a prediction of Isaiah, exceedingly appropriate to the exhortation of which he speaks. It is without doubt of the kingdom of Christ that he there speaks,as is manifest from the context. The Father, then, appointing his Son a leader, for the purpose of gathering together a Church, addresses him in these words:“I have heard thee in an acceptable time.” (Isaiah 49:8.)We know, however, what a degree of correspondence there is between the Head and the members. For Christ was heard in our name, as the salvation of all of us is entrusted into his hand, and nothing else has he taken under his charge. Hence we are all admonished in the person of Christ — not to slight the opportunity that is afforded for obtaining salvation. While the rendering of the Greek interpreter is,εὐπρόσδεκτον,(acceptable,)the word made use of by the Prophet is,רצון, (ratson,) that is, benevolence, or free favour.The quotation must be applied to the subject in hand in this way: “As God specifies a particular time for the exhibition of his grace, it follows that all times are not suitable for that. As a particular day of salvationis named, it follows that a free offer of salvation is not made every day.” Now this altogether depends on the providence of God, for the acceptable timeis no other than what is called inGalatians 4:4,the fullness of the timeThe order of arrangement also must be observed. First, he makes mention of atime of benevolence, and then afterwards of aday of salvationBy this it is intimated, that salvation flows to us from the mercy of God exclusively, as from a fountainhead. Hence we must not seek the cause in ourselves, as if we by means of our own works moved God to assign to us his favor, for whence comes theday of salvation? It is because it is theacceptable time, that is, the time which God has in his free favor appointed. In the mean time, we must keep in view what Paul designs to teach — that there is need of prompt expedition, that we may not allow the opportunity to pass unimproved, inasmuch as it displeases God, that the grace that he offers to us should be received by us with coolness and indifference.Behold now is the timeThe Prophet had spoken of the time, when Christ was to be manifested in the flesh for the redemption of men. Paul transfers the prophecy to the time when Christ is revealed by the continued preaching of the gospel, and it is with good reason that he does so, for assalvationwas once sent to the whole world, when Christ appeared, so now it is sent to us every day, when we are made partakers of the gospel. Here we have a beautiful passage, and affording no ordinary consolation, because, while the gospel is preached to us, we know assuredly that the way is opened up for us into the kingdom of God, and that there is a signal of divine benevolence raised aloft, to invite us to receivesalvation, for the opportunity of obtaining it must be judged of by the call. Unless, however, we embrace the opportunity, we must fear the threatening that Paul brings forward — that, in a short time, the door will be shut against all that have not entered in, while opportunity was afforded. For this retribution always follows contempt of the word.

McArther Bible Commentary

Paul emphasized his point by quoting Isa 49:8. He was passionately concerned that the Corinthians adhere to the truth because it was God's time to save and they were messengers for helping to spread that message. now is the day of salvation. Paul applied Isaiah's words to the present situation. There is a time in God's economy when He listens to sinners and responds to those who are repentant-and it was and is that time (cf. Pro 1:20-23; Isa 55:6; Heb 3:7-8; Heb 4:7). However, there will also be an end to that time (cf. Gen 6:3; Pro 1:24-33; Joh 9:4), which is why Paul's exhortation was so passionate.

Bible Cross References

Psalm 69:13 Isaiah 49:8

Verse 3

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

The apostle, with others, proved themselves faithful ministers of Christ, by their unblamable life and behaviour.

The gospel is a word of grace sounding in our ears. The gospel day is a day of salvation, the means of grace the means of salvation, the offers of the gospel the offers of salvation, and the present time the proper time to accept these offers. The morrow is none of ours: we know not what will be on the morrow, nor where we shall be. We now enjoy a day of grace; then let all be careful not to neglect it. Ministers of the gospel should look upon themselves as God's servants, and act in every thing suitably to that character. The apostle did so, by much patience in afflictions, by acting from good principles, and by due temper and behaviour. Believers, in this world, need the grace of God, to arm them against temptations, so as to bear the good report of men without pride; and so as to bear their reproaches with patience. They have nothing in themselves, but possess all things in Christ. Of such differences is a Christian's life made up, and through such a variety of conditions and reports, is our way to heaven; and we should be careful in all things to approve ourselves to God. The gospel, when faithfully preached, and fully received, betters the condition even of the poorest. They save what before they riotously spent, and diligently employ their time to useful purposes. They save and gain by religion, and thus are made rich, both for the world to come and for this, when compared with their sinful, profligate state, before they received the gospel.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

Giving, as far as in us lies, no offence, that the ministry be not blamed on our account.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

Giving no offenseWe have already on several occasions remarked, that Paul sometimes commends the ministry of the gospel generally, and at other times his own integrity.In the present instance, then, he speaks of himself, and sets before us in his own person a living picture of a good and faithful apostle, that the Corinthians may be led to see how unfair they were in their judgment, in preferring before him empty blusterers.For as they assigned the praise to mere pretences,they held in the highest esteem persons that were effeminate and devoid of zeal, while, on the other hand, as to the best ministers, they cherished no views but such as were mean and abject. Nor is there any reason to doubt, that those very things that Paul makes mention of to his own commendation, had been brought forward by them in part as a ground of contempt; and they were so much the more deserving of reproof, inasmuch as they converted into matter of reproach, what was ground of just praise.Paul, therefore, treats here of three things: In thefirst place, he shows what are the excellences, on the ground of which preachers of the gospel ought to be esteemed;secondly, he shows that he is himself endowed with those excellences;thirdly, he admonishes the Corinthians not to acknowledge as Christ’s servants those who conduct themselves otherwise than he prescribes here by his example. His design is, that he may procure authority for himself and those that were like him, with a view to the glory of God and the good of the Church, or may restore it where it has fallen into decay; andsecondly, that he may call back the Corinthians from an unreasonable attachment to the false apostles, which was a hinderance in the way of their making so much proficiency in the gospel as was necessary. Ministers give occasion of stumbling, when by their own misconduct they hinder the progress of the gospel on the part of their hearers.That Paul says he does not do; for he declares that he carefully takes heed not to stain his apostleship by any spot of disgrace.For this is the artifice of Satan — to seek some misconduct on the part of ministers, that may tend to the dishonor of the gospel. For when he has been successful in bringing the ministry into contempt, all hope of profit is at an end. Hence the man who would usefully serve Christ, must strive with his whole might to maintain the credit of his ministry. The method is — to take care that he be deserving of honor, for nothing is more ridiculous than striving to maintain your reputation before others, while you call forth upon yourself reproach by a wicked and base life. That man, therefore, will alone be honorable, who will allow himself in nothing that is unworthy of a minister of Christ.

McArther Bible Commentary

We give no offense in anything. The faithful ambassador of Christ does nothing to discredit his ministry, but does everything he can to protect its integrity, the gospel's integrity, and God's integrity (cf. Rom 2:24; 1Co 9:27; Tit 2:1-10).

Bible Cross References

Acts 19:27 1 Corinthians 8:9 1 Corinthians 8:13 1 Corinthians 9:12

Verse 4

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

The apostle, with others, proved themselves faithful ministers of Christ, by their unblamable life and behaviour.

The gospel is a word of grace sounding in our ears. The gospel day is a day of salvation, the means of grace the means of salvation, the offers of the gospel the offers of salvation, and the present time the proper time to accept these offers. The morrow is none of ours: we know not what will be on the morrow, nor where we shall be. We now enjoy a day of grace; then let all be careful not to neglect it. Ministers of the gospel should look upon themselves as God's servants, and act in every thing suitably to that character. The apostle did so, by much patience in afflictions, by acting from good principles, and by due temper and behaviour. Believers, in this world, need the grace of God, to arm them against temptations, so as to bear the good report of men without pride; and so as to bear their reproaches with patience. They have nothing in themselves, but possess all things in Christ. Of such differences is a Christian's life made up, and through such a variety of conditions and reports, is our way to heaven; and we should be careful in all things to approve ourselves to God. The gospel, when faithfully preached, and fully received, betters the condition even of the poorest. They save what before they riotously spent, and diligently employ their time to useful purposes. They save and gain by religion, and thus are made rich, both for the world to come and for this, when compared with their sinful, profligate state, before they received the gospel.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

But approving ourselves as the ministers of God - Such as his ministers ought to be. In much patience - Shown, In afflictions, necessities, distresses - All which are general terms. In stripes, imprisonments, tumults - Which are particular sorts of affliction, necessity, distress In labours, watchings, fastings - Voluntarily endured. All these are expressed in the plural number, to denote a variety of them. In afflictions, several ways to escape may appear, though none without difficulty in necessities, one only, and that a difficult one; in distresses, none at all appears.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

In much patience.The whole of the enumeration that follows is intended to show, that all the tests by which the Lord is accustomed to try his servants were to be found in Paul, and that there was no kind of test to which he had not been subjected, in order that the faithfulness of his ministry might be more fully established.Among other things that he enumerates, there are some that are under all circumstances required for all the servants of Christ. Of this nature arelabors, sincerity, knowledge, watchings, gentleness, love, the word of truth, the Spirit, the power of God, the armor of righteousness. There are other things that are not necessary in all cases; for in order that any one may be a servant of Christ, it is not absolutely necessary, that he be put to the test by means ofstripesandimprisonmentsHence these things will in some cases be wanting in the experience of the best. It becomes all, however, to be of such a disposition as to present themselves to be tried, as Paul was, withstripesandimprisonments, if the Lord shall see meet.Patienceis the regulation of the mind in adversity, which is an excellence that ought invariably to distinguish a good minister.Afflictionsinclude more thannecessities;for by the termnecessityhere I understandpoverty. Now this is common to many ministers, there being few of them that are not in poor circumstances; but at the same time not to all. For why should a moderate amount of riches prevent a man from being reckoned a servant of Christ, who, in other respects, is pious, is of upright mind and honorable deportment, and is distinguished by other excellences. As the man that is poor is not on that account to be straightway accounted a good minister, so the man that is rich is not on that account to be rejected. Nay more, Paul in another passage glories not less in hisknowing how to abound, than inknowing how to be in want. (Philippians 4:12.) Hence we must observe the distinction that I have mentioned, betweenoccasional andinvariable grounds of commendation.

McArther Bible Commentary

we commend ourselves as ministers of God. Commend means "introduce," with the connotation of proving oneself (see note on 2Co 3:1). The most convincing proof is the patient endurance of character reflected in Paul's hardships (2Co 6:5) and the nature of his ministry (2Co 6:6-7).

Bible Cross References

John 16:33 Acts 9:16 Romans 3:5 1 Corinthians 3:5 2 Corinthians 4:8 2 Corinthians 11:23 2 Corinthians 12:10 2 Timothy 2:24

Verse 5

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

The apostle, with others, proved themselves faithful ministers of Christ, by their unblamable life and behaviour.

The gospel is a word of grace sounding in our ears. The gospel day is a day of salvation, the means of grace the means of salvation, the offers of the gospel the offers of salvation, and the present time the proper time to accept these offers. The morrow is none of ours: we know not what will be on the morrow, nor where we shall be. We now enjoy a day of grace; then let all be careful not to neglect it. Ministers of the gospel should look upon themselves as God's servants, and act in every thing suitably to that character. The apostle did so, by much patience in afflictions, by acting from good principles, and by due temper and behaviour. Believers, in this world, need the grace of God, to arm them against temptations, so as to bear the good report of men without pride; and so as to bear their reproaches with patience. They have nothing in themselves, but possess all things in Christ. Of such differences is a Christian's life made up, and through such a variety of conditions and reports, is our way to heaven; and we should be careful in all things to approve ourselves to God. The gospel, when faithfully preached, and fully received, betters the condition even of the poorest. They save what before they riotously spent, and diligently employ their time to useful purposes. They save and gain by religion, and thus are made rich, both for the world to come and for this, when compared with their sinful, profligate state, before they received the gospel.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

In tumults - The Greek word implies such attacks as a man cannot stand against, but which bear him hither and thither by violence.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

In tumultsIn proportion to the calmness and gentleness of Paul’s disposition was there the greater excellence displayed in his standing undaunted in the face oftumults; and he takes praise to himself on this account — that while he regarded tumults with abhorrence, he nevertheless encountered them with bravery.Nor does the praise simply consist in his being unmoved bytumults,(this being commonly found among all riotous persons,) but in his being thrown into no alarm by tumults that had been stirred up through the fault of others. And, unquestionably, two things are required on the part of ministers of the Gospel — that they should endeavor to the utmost of their power to maintain peace, and yet on the other hand go forward, undaunted, through the midst of commotions, so as not to turn aside from the right course, though heaven and earth should be mingled.Chrysostom, however, prefers to understandἀκαταστασίαιςto mean — frequent expulsions,inasmuch as there afforded him a place of rest.In fastingsHe does not mean — hunger arising from destitution, but a voluntary exercise of abstinence.

McArther Bible Commentary

Here Paul commended himself to the Corithian believers by mentioning his faithfulness in enduring persecution and citing his diligence in ministry labors, to the point of anguished deprivations when necessary (see note on 2Co 4:17).

Bible Cross References

Acts 16:23 Acts 19:23 1 Corinthians 4:11 2 Corinthians 11:23 2 Corinthians 11:27

Verse 6

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

The apostle, with others, proved themselves faithful ministers of Christ, by their unblamable life and behaviour.

The gospel is a word of grace sounding in our ears. The gospel day is a day of salvation, the means of grace the means of salvation, the offers of the gospel the offers of salvation, and the present time the proper time to accept these offers. The morrow is none of ours: we know not what will be on the morrow, nor where we shall be. We now enjoy a day of grace; then let all be careful not to neglect it. Ministers of the gospel should look upon themselves as God's servants, and act in every thing suitably to that character. The apostle did so, by much patience in afflictions, by acting from good principles, and by due temper and behaviour. Believers, in this world, need the grace of God, to arm them against temptations, so as to bear the good report of men without pride; and so as to bear their reproaches with patience. They have nothing in themselves, but possess all things in Christ. Of such differences is a Christian's life made up, and through such a variety of conditions and reports, is our way to heaven; and we should be careful in all things to approve ourselves to God. The gospel, when faithfully preached, and fully received, betters the condition even of the poorest. They save what before they riotously spent, and diligently employ their time to useful purposes. They save and gain by religion, and thus are made rich, both for the world to come and for this, when compared with their sinful, profligate state, before they received the gospel.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

By prudence - Spiritual divine; not what the world terms so. Worldly prudence is the practical use of worldly wisdom: divine prudence is the due exercise of grace, making spiritual understanding go as far as possible. By love unfeigned - The chief fruit of the Spirit.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

Knowledge may be taken in two senses — either as meaning doctrine itself, or skill in acting properly andknowingly. The latter appears to me the more likely, as he immediately adds —the word of truthTheSpirit is taken bymetonymy, to denote spiritual graces. Frivolous, however, is the cavil of Chrysostom, who infers from this, that the other excellences are peculiar to the Apostle, because he makes mention of theSpirit separately, as ifkindness, knowledge, pureness, armor of righteousness, were from any other source, than from the Holy Spirit. He makes mention, however, of the Spirit separately, as a general term in the midst of particular instances.Thepower of Godshowed itself in many things — in magnanimity, in efficacy in the maintaining of the truth, in the propagation of the Gospel, in victory over enemies, and the like.

McArther Bible Commentary

Paul commended himself positively by listing the important elements of the righteousness God had granted to him. by the Holy Spirit. Paul lived and walked by the power of the Spirit (see note on Gal 5:16). It was the central reason that all the other positive elements of his endurance were a reality.

Bible Cross References

Romans 12:9 1 Corinthians 2:4 1 Corinthians 12:8 2 Corinthians 1:23 2 Corinthians 2:10 2 Corinthians 11:6 2 Corinthians 13:10 Colossians 3:12 1 Thessalonians 1:5 James 3:17

Verse 7

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

The apostle, with others, proved themselves faithful ministers of Christ, by their unblamable life and behaviour.

The gospel is a word of grace sounding in our ears. The gospel day is a day of salvation, the means of grace the means of salvation, the offers of the gospel the offers of salvation, and the present time the proper time to accept these offers. The morrow is none of ours: we know not what will be on the morrow, nor where we shall be. We now enjoy a day of grace; then let all be careful not to neglect it. Ministers of the gospel should look upon themselves as God's servants, and act in every thing suitably to that character. The apostle did so, by much patience in afflictions, by acting from good principles, and by due temper and behaviour. Believers, in this world, need the grace of God, to arm them against temptations, so as to bear the good report of men without pride; and so as to bear their reproaches with patience. They have nothing in themselves, but possess all things in Christ. Of such differences is a Christian's life made up, and through such a variety of conditions and reports, is our way to heaven; and we should be careful in all things to approve ourselves to God. The gospel, when faithfully preached, and fully received, betters the condition even of the poorest. They save what before they riotously spent, and diligently employ their time to useful purposes. They save and gain by religion, and thus are made rich, both for the world to come and for this, when compared with their sinful, profligate state, before they received the gospel.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

By the convincing and converting power of God - Accompanying his word; and also attesting it by divers miracles. By the armour of righteousness on the right hand and the left - That is, on all sides; the panoply or whole armour of God.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

By the armor of righteousnessBy righteousnessyou must understand — rectitude of conscience, and holiness of life. He employs the metaphor ofarmor,because all that serve God require to fight, inasmuch as the devil is always on the alert, to molest them. Now they must be completely armed, because, if he does not succeed in one onset, he thereupon makes a new attempt, and attacks them at one time from before, at another from behind — now on this side, and then on that.

McArther Bible Commentary

by the word of truth. The Scriptures, the revealed Word of God (cf. Col 1:5; Jas 1:18). During his entire ministry, Paul never operated beyond the boundaries of the direction and guidance of divine revelation. by the power of God. Paul did not rely on his own strength when he ministered (see notes on 1Co 1:18; 1Co 2:1-3; cf. Rom 1:16). by the armor of righteousness. Paul did not fight Satan's kingdom with human resources, but with spiritual virtue (see notes on 2Co 10:3-5; Eph 6:10-18). the right hand … the left. Paul had both offensive tools, such as the sword of the Spirit, and defensive tools, such as the shield of faith and the helmet of salvation, at his disposal (see notes on Eph 6:16-17).

Bible Cross References

Romans 13:12 1 Corinthians 2:5 2 Corinthians 2:17 2 Corinthians 4:2 2 Corinthians 10:4 Ephesians 6:11 James 1:18

Verse 8

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

The apostle, with others, proved themselves faithful ministers of Christ, by their unblamable life and behaviour.

The gospel is a word of grace sounding in our ears. The gospel day is a day of salvation, the means of grace the means of salvation, the offers of the gospel the offers of salvation, and the present time the proper time to accept these offers. The morrow is none of ours: we know not what will be on the morrow, nor where we shall be. We now enjoy a day of grace; then let all be careful not to neglect it. Ministers of the gospel should look upon themselves as God's servants, and act in every thing suitably to that character. The apostle did so, by much patience in afflictions, by acting from good principles, and by due temper and behaviour. Believers, in this world, need the grace of God, to arm them against temptations, so as to bear the good report of men without pride; and so as to bear their reproaches with patience. They have nothing in themselves, but possess all things in Christ. Of such differences is a Christian's life made up, and through such a variety of conditions and reports, is our way to heaven; and we should be careful in all things to approve ourselves to God. The gospel, when faithfully preached, and fully received, betters the condition even of the poorest. They save what before they riotously spent, and diligently employ their time to useful purposes. They save and gain by religion, and thus are made rich, both for the world to come and for this, when compared with their sinful, profligate state, before they received the gospel.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

By honour and dishonour - When we are present. By evil report and good report - When we are absent. Who could bear honour and good report, were it not balanced by dishonour? As deceivers - Artful, designing men. So the world represents all true ministers of Christ. Yet true - Upright, sincere, in the sight of God.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

By honor and dishonorThis is no slight test for subjecting a man to trial, for to a man of a noble spirit nothing is more unpleasant, than to incur disgrace. Hence we may observe in all histories, that there have been few men of heroism that have not fallen back, on being irritated by insults.Hence it is indicative of a mind well established in virtue, not to be moved away from one’s course by any disgrace that may be incurred — a rare virtue, but one without which you cannot show that you are a servant of God. We must, it is true, have a regard to good character, but it must be only in so far as the edification of our brethren requires it, and in such a way as not to be dependent on reports— nay more, so as to maintain in the same even course inhonor and indishonor. For God allows us to be tried even by the slander of wicked men, with the view of trying us,whether we act uprightly from disinterested motives;for if one is drawn aside from duty by the ingratitude of men, that man shows that he had not his eye directed to God alone. As then we see that Paul was exposed to infamy and insults, and yet did not on that account stop short, but held forward with undaunted courage, and broke through every impediment so as to reach the goal,let us not give way, if the same thing should befall us.As deceiversHere he relates, not simply in what estimation he was held by the wicked and those that werewithout, (1 Corinthians 5:12,) but also what views were entertained of him by those that werewithin. Now let every one consider with himself, how unseemly was the ingratitude of the Corinthians, and how great was his magnanimity in struggling forward, in spite of such formidable obstacles. By indirect representations, however, he sharply reproves their perverse judgment, when he says that helives and isjoyful, while they despised him as one that was dead and overwhelmed with grief. He reproaches them, also, with ingratitude, when he says, that hemade many rich, while he was contemned on account of his poverty. For they were of the number of those whom he enriched by his wealth: nay more, all of them to a man were under obligations to him on many accounts. Thus he said previously, by way of irony, that he wasunknown, while at the same time the fruit of his labor was everywhere known and celebrated. But how cruel to despise the poverty of the man who supplies youfrom his abundance! He meansspiritual riches, which ought to be much more esteemed thanearthly.

McArther Bible Commentary

as deceivers. Paul's opponents at Corinth had accused him of being an impostor and a false apostle (cf. Joh 7:12).

Bible Cross References

Matthew 27:63 Romans 3:8 1 Corinthians 4:10 1 Corinthians 4:13 2 Corinthians 1:18 2 Corinthians 4:2 2 Corinthians 11:21 2 Corinthians 12:16 1 Thessalonians 2:3

Verse 9

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

The apostle, with others, proved themselves faithful ministers of Christ, by their unblamable life and behaviour.

The gospel is a word of grace sounding in our ears. The gospel day is a day of salvation, the means of grace the means of salvation, the offers of the gospel the offers of salvation, and the present time the proper time to accept these offers. The morrow is none of ours: we know not what will be on the morrow, nor where we shall be. We now enjoy a day of grace; then let all be careful not to neglect it. Ministers of the gospel should look upon themselves as God's servants, and act in every thing suitably to that character. The apostle did so, by much patience in afflictions, by acting from good principles, and by due temper and behaviour. Believers, in this world, need the grace of God, to arm them against temptations, so as to bear the good report of men without pride; and so as to bear their reproaches with patience. They have nothing in themselves, but possess all things in Christ. Of such differences is a Christian's life made up, and through such a variety of conditions and reports, is our way to heaven; and we should be careful in all things to approve ourselves to God. The gospel, when faithfully preached, and fully received, betters the condition even of the poorest. They save what before they riotously spent, and diligently employ their time to useful purposes. They save and gain by religion, and thus are made rich, both for the world to come and for this, when compared with their sinful, profligate state, before they received the gospel.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

As unknown - For the world knoweth us not, as it knew him not. Yet well known - To God, and to those who are the seals of our ministry. As dying, yet behold - Suddenly, unexpectedly, God interposes, and we live.

McArther Bible Commentary

as unknown. This is a twofold reference to: (1) the fact that Christians did not know him before he began persecuting them (cf. Act 8:1; 1Ti 1:12-13); and (2) his rejection by the community of leading Jews and Pharisees following his conversion. He had become a stranger to his former world, and well-known and well-loved by the Christian community.

Bible Cross References

Psalm 118:18 Romans 8:36 2 Corinthians 1:8 2 Corinthians 1:10 2 Corinthians 4:11

Verse 10

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

The apostle, with others, proved themselves faithful ministers of Christ, by their unblamable life and behaviour.

The gospel is a word of grace sounding in our ears. The gospel day is a day of salvation, the means of grace the means of salvation, the offers of the gospel the offers of salvation, and the present time the proper time to accept these offers. The morrow is none of ours: we know not what will be on the morrow, nor where we shall be. We now enjoy a day of grace; then let all be careful not to neglect it. Ministers of the gospel should look upon themselves as God's servants, and act in every thing suitably to that character. The apostle did so, by much patience in afflictions, by acting from good principles, and by due temper and behaviour. Believers, in this world, need the grace of God, to arm them against temptations, so as to bear the good report of men without pride; and so as to bear their reproaches with patience. They have nothing in themselves, but possess all things in Christ. Of such differences is a Christian's life made up, and through such a variety of conditions and reports, is our way to heaven; and we should be careful in all things to approve ourselves to God. The gospel, when faithfully preached, and fully received, betters the condition even of the poorest. They save what before they riotously spent, and diligently employ their time to useful purposes. They save and gain by religion, and thus are made rich, both for the world to come and for this, when compared with their sinful, profligate state, before they received the gospel.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

As sorrowing - For our own manifold imperfections, and for the sins and sufferings of our brethren. Yet always rejoicing - In present peace, love, power, and a sure hope of future glory. As having nothing, yet possessing all things - For all things are ours, if we are Christ's. What a magnificence of thought is this!

McArther Bible Commentary

making many rich. The spiritual wealth Paul possessed and imparted did much to make his hearers spiritually wealthy (cf. Act 3:6).

Bible Cross References

Proverbs 13:7 John 16:22 Acts 3:6 Romans 8:32 1 Corinthians 1:5 1 Corinthians 3:21 2 Corinthians 7:4 2 Corinthians 8:9 Philippians 2:17 Philippians 4:4 Colossians 1:24 1 Thessalonians 1:6 Revelation 2:9

Verse 11

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

By affection for them, And by earnest concern, that they might have no fellowship with unbelievers and idolaters.

It is wrong for believers to join with the wicked and profane. The word unbeliever applies to all destitute of true faith. True pastors will caution their beloved children in the gospel, not to be unequally yoked. The fatal effects of neglecting Scripture precepts as to marriages clearly appear. Instead of a help meet, the union brings a snare. Those whose cross it is to be unequally united, without their wilful fault, may expect consolation under it; but when believers enter into such unions, against the express warnings of God's word, they must expect must distress. The caution also extends to common conversation. We should not join in friendship and acquaintance with wicked men and unbelievers. Though we cannot wholly avoid seeing and hearing, and being with such, yet we should never choose them for friends. We must not defile ourselves by converse with those who defile themselves with sin. Come out from the workers of iniquity, and separate from their vain and sinful pleasures and pursuits; from all conformity to the corruptions of this present evil world. If it be an envied privilege to be the son or daughter of an earthly prince, who can express the dignity and happiness of being sons and daughters of the Almighty?

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

From the praise of the Christian ministry, which he began (2 Corinthians 2:14) , he now draws his affectionate exhortation. O ye Corinthians - He seldom uses this appellation. But it has here a peculiar force. Our mouth is opened toward you - With uncommon freedom, because our heart is enlarged - In tenderness.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

Our mouth is opened.As theopening of the mouth is a sign of boldness,if you are inclined to connect this with what goes before, the meaning will be this, — “I have ample ground of glorying, and an upright conscienceopens my mouth. Your entertaining unfavorable views of us, is not owing to any fault on our part, but arises from your being unfair judges. For you ought to have entertained more favorable views of my ministry, which God has rendered honorable to you in so many ways.” I explain it, however, otherwise; for he says that the reason why hismouth was opened was, that his heart was enlargedNow what is meant byenlargement of heart? Undoubtedly it means the cheerfulness that springs from benevolence.It is quite a common figure, to speak of anarrow and contracted heart as denoting eithergrief, ordisgust, while, on the other hand,an enlarged heart is employed to denote dispositions of an opposite kind. Hence Paul here says nothing but what we every day experience, for when we have to do with friends, ourheart is enlarged, all our feelings are laid open, there is nothing there that is hid, nothing shut, — nay more, the whole mind leaps and exults to unfold itself openly to view.Hence it is, that the tongue, also, is free and unfettered, does not faulter, does not with difficulty draw up from the bottom of the throat broken syllables, as usually happens when the mind is influenced by a less joyful affection.

McArther Bible Commentary

Paul proved his genuine love for the Corinthians by defining love's character. This passage confirms the reality of his profession of love for them (cf. 2Co 2:4; 2Co 3:2; 2Co 12:15, 2Co 12:19).

Bible Cross References

Psalm 119:32 Isaiah 60:5 Ezekiel 33:22 Acts 18:1 Acts 18:8 2 Corinthians 7:3 Galatians 4:12 Ephesians 6:19

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

By affection for them, And by earnest concern, that they might have no fellowship with unbelievers and idolaters.

It is wrong for believers to join with the wicked and profane. The word unbeliever applies to all destitute of true faith. True pastors will caution their beloved children in the gospel, not to be unequally yoked. The fatal effects of neglecting Scripture precepts as to marriages clearly appear. Instead of a help meet, the union brings a snare. Those whose cross it is to be unequally united, without their wilful fault, may expect consolation under it; but when believers enter into such unions, against the express warnings of God's word, they must expect must distress. The caution also extends to common conversation. We should not join in friendship and acquaintance with wicked men and unbelievers. Though we cannot wholly avoid seeing and hearing, and being with such, yet we should never choose them for friends. We must not defile ourselves by converse with those who defile themselves with sin. Come out from the workers of iniquity, and separate from their vain and sinful pleasures and pursuits; from all conformity to the corruptions of this present evil world. If it be an envied privilege to be the son or daughter of an earthly prince, who can express the dignity and happiness of being sons and daughters of the Almighty?

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

Ye are not straitened in us - Our heart is wide enough to receive you all. But ye are straitened in your own bowels - Your hearts are shut up, and so not capable of the blessings ye might enjoy.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

Ye are not straitened in usThat is, “It is owing to your own fault that you are not able to share in this feeling of cheerfulness, which I entertain towards you. Mymouth is opened, so that I deal familiarly with you, my very heart would willingly pour itself forth,but you shut up your bowels.” He means to say, that it is owing to their corrupt judgment, that the things that he utters are not relished by them.

Bible Cross References

Matthew 7:14 2 Corinthians 4:8 2 Corinthians 7:2

Verse 13

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

By affection for them, And by earnest concern, that they might have no fellowship with unbelievers and idolaters.

It is wrong for believers to join with the wicked and profane. The word unbeliever applies to all destitute of true faith. True pastors will caution their beloved children in the gospel, not to be unequally yoked. The fatal effects of neglecting Scripture precepts as to marriages clearly appear. Instead of a help meet, the union brings a snare. Those whose cross it is to be unequally united, without their wilful fault, may expect consolation under it; but when believers enter into such unions, against the express warnings of God's word, they must expect must distress. The caution also extends to common conversation. We should not join in friendship and acquaintance with wicked men and unbelievers. Though we cannot wholly avoid seeing and hearing, and being with such, yet we should never choose them for friends. We must not defile ourselves by converse with those who defile themselves with sin. Come out from the workers of iniquity, and separate from their vain and sinful pleasures and pursuits; from all conformity to the corruptions of this present evil world. If it be an envied privilege to be the son or daughter of an earthly prince, who can express the dignity and happiness of being sons and daughters of the Almighty?

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

Now for a recompence of the same - Of my parental tenderness. I speak as to my children - I ask nothing hard or grievous. Be ye also enlarged - Open your hearts, first to God, and then to us, so (2 Corinthians 8:5) , that God may "dwell in you," (2 Corinthians 6:16) ; (2 Corinthians 7:1) ; and that ye may "receive us," (2 Corinthians 7:2) .

John Calvin Bible Commentary

Now the same requitalHe softens his reproof by addressing them kindly as his sons, and also by this exhortation, by which he intimates that he still entertains good hopes of them. By thesame requital he means — mutual duty, for there is a mutual return of duty between a father and his sons. For as it is the duty of parents to nourish their children, to instruct them, to direct them by their counsel, and to defend them, so it is the dictate of equity, that children shouldrequite their parents. (1 Timothy 6:4.) In fine, he means what the Greeks callἀντιπελαργίαν— affection exercised in return.“I cherish,” says he, “towards you paternal affection: show yourselves then to be my sons by affection and respect in return.” At the same time there is a particular circumstance that must be noticed, That the Corinthians, having found so indulgent a father, may also show gentleness in their turn, and may requite his kind condescension by their docility, he exhorts them with this view to beenlarged in their own bowels. The Old Interpreter, not having caught Paul’s meaning, has added the participlehaving, and has thus expressed his own view rather than Paul’s. In our exposition, on the other hand, (which is Chrysostom’s, also,) there is nothing forced.

Bible Cross References

Psalm 119:32 1 Corinthians 4:14 Galatians 4:12 3 John 1:4

Verse 14

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

By affection for them, And by earnest concern, that they might have no fellowship with unbelievers and idolaters.

It is wrong for believers to join with the wicked and profane. The word unbeliever applies to all destitute of true faith. True pastors will caution their beloved children in the gospel, not to be unequally yoked. The fatal effects of neglecting Scripture precepts as to marriages clearly appear. Instead of a help meet, the union brings a snare. Those whose cross it is to be unequally united, without their wilful fault, may expect consolation under it; but when believers enter into such unions, against the express warnings of God's word, they must expect must distress. The caution also extends to common conversation. We should not join in friendship and acquaintance with wicked men and unbelievers. Though we cannot wholly avoid seeing and hearing, and being with such, yet we should never choose them for friends. We must not defile ourselves by converse with those who defile themselves with sin. Come out from the workers of iniquity, and separate from their vain and sinful pleasures and pursuits; from all conformity to the corruptions of this present evil world. If it be an envied privilege to be the son or daughter of an earthly prince, who can express the dignity and happiness of being sons and daughters of the Almighty?

EGW SDA Bible Commentary

(see EGW on Judges 2:2). Out of the World, Into God's Family

—Those who come out of the world in spirit and in all practice may regard themselves as sons and daughters of God. They may believe His Word as a child believes every word of his parents. Every promise is sure to him that believes. Those who unite with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, who show by their lives that they are no longer following the course they followed before they united with these divine instrumentalities, will receive the wisdom from above. They will not depend on human wisdom. In order to deal righteously with the world, as members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King, Christians must feel their need of a power which comes only from the heavenly agencies who have pledged themselves to work in their behalf.After we have formed a union with the great threefold power, we shall regard our duty toward the members of God's family with a much more sacred awe than we have ever done before. This is a phase of religious reform that very few appreciate. Those who seek to answer the prayer, “Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven,” will seek by living pure, sanctified lives to show to the world how the will of God is done in heaven (Manuscript 11, 1901).

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

Be not unequally yoked with unbelievers - Christians with Jews or heathens. The apostle particularly speaks of marriage. But the reasons he urges equally hold against any needless intimacy with them. Of the five questions that follow, the three former contain the argument; the two latter, the conclusion.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

Be not yokedAs if regaining his authority, he now reproves them more freely, because they associated with unbelievers, as partakers with them in outward idolatry. For he has exhorted them to show themselves docile to him as to a father: he now, in accordance with the rights that belong to him,reproves the fault into which they had fallen. Now we mentioned in the former epistlewhat this fault was; for, as they imagined that there was nothing that was unlawful for them in outward things, they defiled themselves with wicked superstitions without any reserve. For in frequenting the banquets of unbelievers, they participated along with them in profane and impure rites, and while they sinned grievously, they nevertheless thought themselves innocent. On this account Paul inveighs here against outward idolatry, and exhorts Christians to stand aloof from it, and have no connection with it. He begins, however, with a general statement, with the view of coming down from that to a particular instance, for to beyoked with unbelievers means nothing less than tohave fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, (Ephesians 5:11,)and to hold out the hand to them in token of agreement.Many are of opinion that he speaks of marriage, but the context clearly shows that they are mistaken. The word that Paul makes use of means — to be connected together in drawing the same yoke. It is a metaphor taken from oxen or horses, which require to walk at the same pace, and to act together in the same work, when fastened under one yoke. When, therefore, he prohibits us from having partnership with unbelievers in drawing the same yoke, he means simply this, that we should have no fellowship with them in their pollutions. Forone sun shines upon us, we eat of the same bread, we breathe the same air, and we cannot altogether refrain from intercourse with them; but Paul speaks of the yoke of impiety, that is, of participation in works, in which Christians cannot lawfully have fellowship. On this principle marriage will also be prohibited, inasmuch as it is a snare, by which both men and women are entangled into an agreement with impiety; but what I mean is simply this, that Paul’s doctrine is of too general a nature to be restricted to marriage exclusively, for he is discoursing here as to the shunning of idolatry, on which account, also, we are prohibited from contracting marriages with the wicked.For what fellowshipHe confirms his exhortation on the ground of its being an absurd, and, as it were, monstrous connecting together of things in themselves much at variance; for these things can no more coalesce than fire and water. In short it comes to this, that unless they would have everything thrown into confusion, they must refrain from the pollutions of the wicked. Hence, too, we infer, that even those that do not in their hearts approve of superstitions are, nevertheless, polluted by dissimulation if they do not openly and ingenuously stand aloof from them.

McArther Bible Commentary

unequally yoked together. An illustration taken from OT prohibitions to Israel regarding the work-related joining together of two different kinds of livestock (see note on Deu 22:10). By this analogy, Paul taught that it is not right to join together in common spiritual enterprise with those who are not of the same nature (unbelievers). It is impossible under such an arrangement for things to be done to God's glory. with unbelievers. Christians are not to be bound together with non-Christians in any spiritual enterprise or relationship that would be detrimental to the Christian's testimony within the body of Christ (see notes on 1Co 5:9-13; cf. 1Co 6:15-18; 1Co 10:7-21; Jas 4:4; 1Jn 2:15). This was especially important for the Corinthians because of the threats from the false teachers and the surrounding pagan idolatry. But this command does not mean believers should end all associations with unbelievers; that would defy the purpose for which God saved believers and left them on earth (cf. Mat 28:19-20; 1Co 9:19-23). The implausibility of such religious alliances is made clear in verses 2Co 6:14-17.

Bible Cross References

Genesis 24:3 Deuteronomy 22:10 Ezra 9:2 1 Corinthians 5:9 1 Corinthians 6:6 1 Corinthians 7:39 Ephesians 5:7 Ephesians 5:11 1 John 1:6

Verse 15

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

By affection for them, And by earnest concern, that they might have no fellowship with unbelievers and idolaters.

It is wrong for believers to join with the wicked and profane. The word unbeliever applies to all destitute of true faith. True pastors will caution their beloved children in the gospel, not to be unequally yoked. The fatal effects of neglecting Scripture precepts as to marriages clearly appear. Instead of a help meet, the union brings a snare. Those whose cross it is to be unequally united, without their wilful fault, may expect consolation under it; but when believers enter into such unions, against the express warnings of God's word, they must expect must distress. The caution also extends to common conversation. We should not join in friendship and acquaintance with wicked men and unbelievers. Though we cannot wholly avoid seeing and hearing, and being with such, yet we should never choose them for friends. We must not defile ourselves by converse with those who defile themselves with sin. Come out from the workers of iniquity, and separate from their vain and sinful pleasures and pursuits; from all conformity to the corruptions of this present evil world. If it be an envied privilege to be the son or daughter of an earthly prince, who can express the dignity and happiness of being sons and daughters of the Almighty?

EGW SDA Bible Commentary

(see EGW on Judges 2:2). Out of the World, Into God's Family

—Those who come out of the world in spirit and in all practice may regard themselves as sons and daughters of God. They may believe His Word as a child believes every word of his parents. Every promise is sure to him that believes. Those who unite with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, who show by their lives that they are no longer following the course they followed before they united with these divine instrumentalities, will receive the wisdom from above. They will not depend on human wisdom. In order to deal righteously with the world, as members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King, Christians must feel their need of a power which comes only from the heavenly agencies who have pledged themselves to work in their behalf.After we have formed a union with the great threefold power, we shall regard our duty toward the members of God's family with a much more sacred awe than we have ever done before. This is a phase of religious reform that very few appreciate. Those who seek to answer the prayer, “Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven,” will seek by living pure, sanctified lives to show to the world how the will of God is done in heaven (Manuscript 11, 1901).

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

What concord hath Christ - Whom ye serve. With Belial - To whom they belong.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

What concord has Christ with Belial?As to the etymology of the wordBelial,even the Hebrews themselves are not agreedThe meaning, however, is not doubtful.For Moses takes a word or thought ofBelialto mean a wicked and base thought,and in various instancesthose who are wicked and abandoned to iniquity, are calledmen, orsons of Belial. (Deuteronomy 13:13;Judges 19:22;1 Samuel 2:12.) Hence it is, that Paul has employed the word here to mean the devil, the head of all wicked persons. For from what holds good as to the two heads, he comes down without delay to the members: “As there is an irreconcilable variance between Christ and Satan, so we also must keep aloof from partnership with the wicked.” When, however, Paul says that a Christian has no participation with an unbeliever, he does not mean as to food, clothing, estates, the sun, the air, as I have mentioned above, but as to those things that are peculiar to unbelievers, from which the Lord has separated us.

McArther Bible Commentary

Belial. An ancient name for Satan, the utterly worthless one (see note on Deu 13:13). This contrasts sharply with Jesus Christ, the worthy One, with whom believers are to be in fellowship.

Bible Cross References

Judges 19:22 Judges 20:13 1 Samuel 2:12 Acts 5:14 1 Corinthians 6:6 1 Corinthians 10:21 1 Peter 1:21

Verse 16

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

By affection for them, And by earnest concern, that they might have no fellowship with unbelievers and idolaters.

It is wrong for believers to join with the wicked and profane. The word unbeliever applies to all destitute of true faith. True pastors will caution their beloved children in the gospel, not to be unequally yoked. The fatal effects of neglecting Scripture precepts as to marriages clearly appear. Instead of a help meet, the union brings a snare. Those whose cross it is to be unequally united, without their wilful fault, may expect consolation under it; but when believers enter into such unions, against the express warnings of God's word, they must expect must distress. The caution also extends to common conversation. We should not join in friendship and acquaintance with wicked men and unbelievers. Though we cannot wholly avoid seeing and hearing, and being with such, yet we should never choose them for friends. We must not defile ourselves by converse with those who defile themselves with sin. Come out from the workers of iniquity, and separate from their vain and sinful pleasures and pursuits; from all conformity to the corruptions of this present evil world. If it be an envied privilege to be the son or daughter of an earthly prince, who can express the dignity and happiness of being sons and daughters of the Almighty?

EGW SDA Bible Commentary

(see EGW on Judges 2:2). Out of the World, Into God's Family

—Those who come out of the world in spirit and in all practice may regard themselves as sons and daughters of God. They may believe His Word as a child believes every word of his parents. Every promise is sure to him that believes. Those who unite with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, who show by their lives that they are no longer following the course they followed before they united with these divine instrumentalities, will receive the wisdom from above. They will not depend on human wisdom. In order to deal righteously with the world, as members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King, Christians must feel their need of a power which comes only from the heavenly agencies who have pledged themselves to work in their behalf.After we have formed a union with the great threefold power, we shall regard our duty toward the members of God's family with a much more sacred awe than we have ever done before. This is a phase of religious reform that very few appreciate. Those who seek to answer the prayer, “Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven,” will seek by living pure, sanctified lives to show to the world how the will of God is done in heaven (Manuscript 11, 1901).

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

What agreement hath the temple of God with idols - If God would not endure idols in any part of the land wherein he dwelt, how much less, under his own roof! He does not say, with the temple of idols, for idols do not dwell in their worshippers. As God hath said - To his ancient church, and in them to all the Israel of God. I will dwell in them, and walk in them - The former signifying his perpetual presence; the latter, his operation. And I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people - The sum of the whole gospel covenant. (Leviticus 26:11) , &c.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

What agreement hath the temple of God with idols?Hitherto he has in general terms prohibited believers from associating with the wicked. He now lets them know what was the chief reason, why he had prohibited them from such an association — because they had ceased to reckon the profession of idolatry to be a sin. He had censured that liberty, and had exposed it at great length in the former Epistle. It is probable, however, that all had not yet been gained over, so as to receive the counsel which he had given. Hence it was that he complained of their beingstraitened in their own bowels— the only thing that hindered their proficiency.He does not, however, resume that subject anew, but contents himself with a short admonition, as we are accustomed to do, when we treat of things that are well known. At the same time his brevity does not prevent his giving sharp cuts. For how much emphasis there is in that single word, where he teaches that there is no agreement between thetemple of Godandidols!“It is a sacrilegious profanation,when an idolor anyidolatrous service is introduced into thetemple of GodNow we are the truetemples of God. Hence it is sacrilege to defile ourselves with any contamination of idols. This one consideration, I say, should be to you as good as a thousand. If you are a Christian,what have you to do with idols, (Hosea 14:8,) for you are thetemple of God?” Paul, however, as I have already in part noticed, contends rather by way of exhortation than of doctrine, inasmuch as it would have been superfluous to be still treating of it, as if it were a thing doubtful or obscure.As God saith, I will walk.He proves that we are thetemples of Godfrom this, that God of old promised to the people of Israel that he would dwell in the midst of them. In the first place, God cannot dwellamong us, without dwelling in each one of us, for he promises this as a singular privilege —I will dwell in the midst of youNor does thisdwelling or presence consist merely in earthly blessings, but must be understood chiefly of spiritual grace. Hence it does not mean simply that God is near us, as though he were in the air, flying round about us, but it means rather that he has his abode in our hearts. If, then, any one objects, that the particleinsimply meansamong, I grant it; but I affirm that, from the circumstance that God promises that he will dwellamong us, we may infer that he also remainsinus.And such was the type of the ark, of which mention is made by Moses in that passage, from which Paul appears to have borrowed this quotation. (Leviticus 26:12.) If, however, any one thinks that Paul had rather in his eyeEzekiel 37:27, the argument will be the same. For the Prophet, when describing the restoration of the Church, mentions as the chief good, the presence of God, which he had himself in the beginning promised by Moses. Now what was prefigured by the ark, was manifested to us more fully in Christ, when he became to us Immanuel(Matthew 1:23.) On this account, I am of opinion that it is Ezekiel, rather than Moses, that is here quoted, because Ezekiel alludes at the same time to the type of the ark, and declares that it will have its fulfillment under the reign of Christ. Now the Apostle takes it for granted, that God dwells nowhere but in a sacred place. If we say of a man, “he dwells here,” that will not make the place atemple; but as to God there is this peculiarity, that whatever place he honors with his presence, he at the same time sanctifies.

McArther Bible Commentary

agreement … temple of God with idols. The temple of God (true Christianity) and idols (idolatrous, demonic, false religions) are utterly incompatible (cf. 1 Sam. 2Co 6:4-6; 2Ki 21:1-15; Ezek. 8). you are the temple of the living God. Believers individually are spiritual houses (cf. 2Co 5:1) in which the Spirit of Christ dwells (see notes on 1Co 3:16-17; 1Co 6:19-20; Eph 2:22). As God has said. Paul supported his statement by referring to a blend of OT texts (Lev 26:11-12; Jer 24:7; Jer 31:33; Eze 37:26-27; Hos 2:2-3).

Bible Cross References

Exodus 25:8 Exodus 29:45 Leviticus 26:12 Jeremiah 31:1 Ezekiel 37:27 Matthew 16:16 John 14:23 Romans 8:9 1 Corinthians 3:16 1 Corinthians 6:19 1 Corinthians 10:21 Ephesians 2:22 1 Timothy 3:15 James 4:5 Revelation 2:1 Revelation 21:3 Revelation 21:7

Verse 17

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

By affection for them, And by earnest concern, that they might have no fellowship with unbelievers and idolaters.

It is wrong for believers to join with the wicked and profane. The word unbeliever applies to all destitute of true faith. True pastors will caution their beloved children in the gospel, not to be unequally yoked. The fatal effects of neglecting Scripture precepts as to marriages clearly appear. Instead of a help meet, the union brings a snare. Those whose cross it is to be unequally united, without their wilful fault, may expect consolation under it; but when believers enter into such unions, against the express warnings of God's word, they must expect must distress. The caution also extends to common conversation. We should not join in friendship and acquaintance with wicked men and unbelievers. Though we cannot wholly avoid seeing and hearing, and being with such, yet we should never choose them for friends. We must not defile ourselves by converse with those who defile themselves with sin. Come out from the workers of iniquity, and separate from their vain and sinful pleasures and pursuits; from all conformity to the corruptions of this present evil world. If it be an envied privilege to be the son or daughter of an earthly prince, who can express the dignity and happiness of being sons and daughters of the Almighty?

EGW SDA Bible Commentary

(see EGW on Judges 2:2). Out of the World, Into God's Family

—Those who come out of the world in spirit and in all practice may regard themselves as sons and daughters of God. They may believe His Word as a child believes every word of his parents. Every promise is sure to him that believes. Those who unite with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, who show by their lives that they are no longer following the course they followed before they united with these divine instrumentalities, will receive the wisdom from above. They will not depend on human wisdom. In order to deal righteously with the world, as members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King, Christians must feel their need of a power which comes only from the heavenly agencies who have pledged themselves to work in their behalf.After we have formed a union with the great threefold power, we shall regard our duty toward the members of God's family with a much more sacred awe than we have ever done before. This is a phase of religious reform that very few appreciate. Those who seek to answer the prayer, “Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven,” will seek by living pure, sanctified lives to show to the world how the will of God is done in heaven (Manuscript 11, 1901).

EGW SDA Bible Commentary

(see EGW on Isaiah 8:12). The Sifting Instrument

—The world is the instrument that sifts the church and tests the genuineness of its members. The world holds out inducements that, when accepted, place the believer where his life is not in harmony with his profession....If you go forward toward heaven, the world will rub hard against you. At every step you will have to urge your way against Satan and his evil angels, and against all who transgress God's law. Earthly authorities will interpose. You will meet tribulations, bruising of the spirit, hard speeches, ridicule, persecutions. Men will require your conformity to laws and customs that would render you disloyal to God. Here is where God's people find the cross in the way to life (Manuscript 3, 1885).

EGW SDA Bible Commentary

(Colossians 3:2; see EGW on Proverbs 1:10; Romans 6:1-4). Sever Every Earthly Tendril

—Many professed Christians are well represented by the vine that is trailing upon the ground and entwining its tendrils about the roots and rubbish that lie in its path. To all such the message comes, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” There are conditions to meet if we would be blessed and honored by God. We are to separate from the world, and refuse to touch those things that will separate our affections from God. God has the first and highest claims upon His people. Set your affections upon Him and upon heavenly things. Your tendrils must be severed from everything earthly.You are exhorted to touch not the unclean thing; for in touching this, you will yourself become unclean. It is impossible for you to unite with those who are corrupt, and still remain pure. “What fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial?” God and Christ and the heavenly host would have man know that if he unites with the corrupt, he will become corrupt. Ample provision has been made that we may be raised from the lowlands of earth, and have our affections fastened upon God and upon heavenly things (The Review and Herald, January 2, 1900).

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

Touch not the unclean person - Keep at the utmost distance from him. And I will receive you - Into my house and family. (Isaiah 52:11) ; (Zephaniah 3:19-20) .

John Calvin Bible Commentary

Wherefore come out from the midst of them.This exhortation is taken fromIsaiah 52:11, where the Prophet, when foretelling the deliverance, at length addresses the priests in these terms. For he makes use of a circumlocution to describe the priests, when he says,Ye that bear the vessels of the Lord, inasmuch as they had the charge of thevessels, by means of which the sacrifices, and other parts of divine worship, were performed. There can be no doubt that his design is to admonish them, that, while eagerly desirous to come forth,they should be on their guard against any contamination from the many pollutions with which the countrywas overrun. Now this is no less applicable to us, than to the ancient Levites, for if so much purity is required on the part of thekeepers of the vessels, how much more in thevessels themselves!Now all our members arevessels, set apart for the spiritual worship of God; we are also aroyal priesthood. (1 Peter 2:9.) Hence, as we are redeemed by the grace of God, it is befitting that we keep ourselves undefiled in respect of all uncleanness, that we may not pollute the sanctuary of God. As, however, while remaining in this world, we are nevertheless redeemed, and rescued, from the pollutions of the world, so we are not to quit life with the view of departing from all uncleanness, but must simply avoid all participation. The sum is this. “If with a true affection of the heart, we aim at the benefit of redemption, we must beware of defiling ourselves by any contamination from its pollutions.”

McArther Bible Commentary

Paul drew from Isa 52:11 and elaborated on the command to be spiritually separated. It is not only irrational and sacrilegious but disobedient to be bound together with unbelievers. When believers are saved, they are to disengage themselves from all forms of false religion and make a clean break from all sinful habits and old idolatrous patterns (see notes on Eph 5:6-12; 2Ti 2:20-23; cf. Rev 18:4). be separate. This is a command for believers to be as Christ was (Heb 7:26).

Bible Cross References

Isaiah 52:11 Jeremiah 15:17 Revelation 18:4

Verse 18

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

By affection for them, And by earnest concern, that they might have no fellowship with unbelievers and idolaters.

It is wrong for believers to join with the wicked and profane. The word unbeliever applies to all destitute of true faith. True pastors will caution their beloved children in the gospel, not to be unequally yoked. The fatal effects of neglecting Scripture precepts as to marriages clearly appear. Instead of a help meet, the union brings a snare. Those whose cross it is to be unequally united, without their wilful fault, may expect consolation under it; but when believers enter into such unions, against the express warnings of God's word, they must expect must distress. The caution also extends to common conversation. We should not join in friendship and acquaintance with wicked men and unbelievers. Though we cannot wholly avoid seeing and hearing, and being with such, yet we should never choose them for friends. We must not defile ourselves by converse with those who defile themselves with sin. Come out from the workers of iniquity, and separate from their vain and sinful pleasures and pursuits; from all conformity to the corruptions of this present evil world. If it be an envied privilege to be the son or daughter of an earthly prince, who can express the dignity and happiness of being sons and daughters of the Almighty?

EGW SDA Bible Commentary

(see EGW on Judges 2:2). Out of the World, Into God's Family

—Those who come out of the world in spirit and in all practice may regard themselves as sons and daughters of God. They may believe His Word as a child believes every word of his parents. Every promise is sure to him that believes. Those who unite with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, who show by their lives that they are no longer following the course they followed before they united with these divine instrumentalities, will receive the wisdom from above. They will not depend on human wisdom. In order to deal righteously with the world, as members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King, Christians must feel their need of a power which comes only from the heavenly agencies who have pledged themselves to work in their behalf.After we have formed a union with the great threefold power, we shall regard our duty toward the members of God's family with a much more sacred awe than we have ever done before. This is a phase of religious reform that very few appreciate. Those who seek to answer the prayer, “Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven,” will seek by living pure, sanctified lives to show to the world how the will of God is done in heaven (Manuscript 11, 1901).

EGW SDA Bible Commentary

(Colossians 3:2; see EGW on Proverbs 1:10; Romans 6:1-4). Sever Every Earthly Tendril

—Many professed Christians are well represented by the vine that is trailing upon the ground and entwining its tendrils about the roots and rubbish that lie in its path. To all such the message comes, “Come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” There are conditions to meet if we would be blessed and honored by God. We are to separate from the world, and refuse to touch those things that will separate our affections from God. God has the first and highest claims upon His people. Set your affections upon Him and upon heavenly things. Your tendrils must be severed from everything earthly.You are exhorted to touch not the unclean thing; for in touching this, you will yourself become unclean. It is impossible for you to unite with those who are corrupt, and still remain pure. “What fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? and what concord hath Christ with Belial?” God and Christ and the heavenly host would have man know that if he unites with the corrupt, he will become corrupt. Ample provision has been made that we may be raised from the lowlands of earth, and have our affections fastened upon God and upon heavenly things (The Review and Herald, January 2, 1900).

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

And ye shall be to me for sons and for daughters, saith the Lord Almighty - The promise made to Solomon, (1 Chronicles 28:6) , is here applied to all believers; as the promise made particularly to Joshua is applied to them, (Hebrews 13:5) . Who can express the worth, who can conceive the dignity, of this divine adoption? Yet it belongs to all who believe the gospel, who have faith in Christ. They have access to the Almighty; such free and welcome access, as a beloved child to an indulgent father. To him they may fly for aid in every difficulty, and from him obtain a supply in all their wants. (Isaiah 43:6) .

John Calvin Bible Commentary

I will be a Father unto you.This promise does not occur in one passage merely, but is repeated in various instances. Paul has added it with this view, that a recognition of the great honor to which God has exalted us, might be a motive to stir us up to a more ardent desire for holiness. For when God has restored his Church which he has gathered from profane nations, their redemption is attended with this fruit, that believers are seen to be hissons and daughtersIt is no common honor that we are reckoned among the sons of God: it belongs to us in our turn to take care, that we do not show ourselves to be degenerate children to him. For what injury we do to God, if while we call him father, we defile ourselves with abominations of idols! Hence, the thought of the high distinction to which he has elevated us, ought to whet our desire for holiness and purity.

McArther Bible Commentary

As a result of separating themselves from false doctrine and practice, believers will know the full richness of what it means to be children of God (see notes on Rom 8:14-17; cf. 2Sa 7:14; Eze 20:34).

Bible Cross References

2 Samuel 7:14 1 Chronicles 17:13 Isaiah 43:6 Hosea 1:10 Romans 8:14 Romans 8:16 Romans 8:19 Revelation 21:7