2 Corinthians 13:5-10 – Final plead for change

In verse 5 onwards, right through to verse 10, Paul began to admonish the Corinthians. They had insisted that Paul should prove himself as an authentic apostle, but he in turn told them to examine themselves. The word examine was applied to the process of testing precious metal e.g. gold, to check if it was genuine or spurious. The apostle suggested that the Corinthians should take a hard and deep look at themselves, to check if they belonged to Christ. To Paul, far more important than whether Christ was speaking through him, was whether the Corinthians genuinely belonged to Christ. So he asked them to check if Christ was living through them. The process of examining and testing would help them to see clearly and realize for themselves that they were Christ’s.

 

Personally Paul would like to believe that the Corinthians had made the grade and were Christ’s. Yet he would rather that they discover this for themselves. This would help them to see that Paul and his workers didn’t fail the test and were genuine workers of Christ. Paul knew that their uncertainty about him as an authentic apostle was the outcome of their own uncertainty about their faith in Christ. Their nitpicking attitude, especially of Paul, showed how infantile they were in the faith.

 

The apostle offered a prayer that they should examine and do the right thing, not because he craved for their acceptance, and not because he longed to be exonerated and authenticated as a genuine apostle. It would be good if they discovered that in the process of their examination. If not, he would gladly even sacrifice that if their relationship with God could be mended. Paul primarily prayed for their obedience to the Gospel and what was expected of them in their daily living. He wanted them to do no wrong so that they wouldn’t have a behavior that contradict the desire of God. Paul’s primary concern was not his own reputation, but the Corinthians relationship with God.

Paul and his associates would only do those things that would advance the truth; they won’t do anything to retard its progress. Using the two words weak and strong, Paul was telling the Corinthians that he could accept being wrong, or to accept defeat, as long as the Corinthians were living victorious lives in Christ. Paul, in fact, prayed that they would continue to grow and become more mature in their Christian life.

In verse 10 he once again stated his purpose for writing. He would rather that they change before his arrival so that severe discipline could be avoided. Paul was sure, if need be, he would exercise the authority which the Lord had delegated to him. However, he assured the Corinthians that his commission and authority were given to build up and not to tear down and destroy.

 

We see in Paul a true servant leader. His emphasis was not in the power he possessed and could wield, but in the love and grace that he was shown and should show. He would rather that they willingly respond to his gentle coaxing than exercising strong coercion. However, if strong measures needed to be taken, he would do so, even then he would do it in love. What a good model to emulate in leading, parenting and teaching.