What is the context and meaning of 2 Corinthians 6?

In 2 Corinthians 6, the Apostle Paul continues his heartfelt appeal to the Corinthian church, urging them to live in a manner that reflects their calling as God's people. This chapter is a profound blend of exhortation, personal testimony, and theological reflection. To fully understand the context and meaning of 2 Corinthians 6, it's essential to consider the broader narrative of Paul's relationship with the Corinthian church and the specific issues he addresses in this letter.

Paul's relationship with the Corinthians was complex and often strained. After founding the church in Corinth, Paul faced numerous challenges, including opposition from within the church and external pressures. The Corinthians were a diverse group, influenced by the surrounding Greco-Roman culture, which often conflicted with the teachings of Christ. In his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul addressed various moral, doctrinal, and practical issues. By the time he wrote 2 Corinthians, the relationship had grown more complicated, with some members questioning his apostolic authority and integrity.

In 2 Corinthians 6, Paul begins by emphasizing the urgency and importance of responding to God's grace. He quotes Isaiah 49:8, "In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you." Paul then adds, "I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation" (2 Corinthians 6:2, NIV). This call to immediate action underscores the present opportunity for the Corinthians to align themselves with God's purposes.

Paul's exhortation to the Corinthians in this chapter can be divided into several key themes:

1. Living as God's Servants

Paul describes the characteristics and experiences of those who serve God. He begins by asserting that he and his co-workers "put no stumbling block in anyone's path, so that our ministry will not be discredited" (2 Corinthians 6:3, NIV). This statement reflects Paul's commitment to integrity and his desire to avoid any behavior that might hinder others from accepting the gospel.

He then provides a detailed account of the trials and virtues that mark his ministry: "We put no stumbling block in anyone's path, so that our ministry will not be discredited. Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses; in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger; in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love; in truthful speech and in the power of God; with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left; through glory and dishonor, bad report and good report; genuine, yet regarded as impostors; known, yet regarded as unknown; dying, and yet we live on; beaten, and yet not killed; sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything" (2 Corinthians 6:3-10, NIV).

This passage is a powerful testament to the paradoxes of Christian ministry. Paul highlights the contrasts between external appearances and spiritual realities. Despite facing severe hardships, he and his companions remain steadfast, empowered by the Holy Spirit and motivated by sincere love. Their lives are a testimony to the transformative power of the gospel.

2. The Call to Holiness

In the latter part of the chapter, Paul shifts his focus to the Corinthians' conduct and relationships. He issues a strong call to holiness, urging them to separate themselves from anything that might compromise their faith. He writes: "Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and Belial? Or what does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God has said: 'I will live with them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they will be my people.' Therefore, 'Come out from them and be separate, says the Lord. Touch no unclean thing, and I will receive you.' And, 'I will be a Father to you, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty'" (2 Corinthians 6:14-18, NIV).

This passage underscores the importance of maintaining spiritual purity and avoiding alliances that could lead to moral and spiritual compromise. The metaphor of being "yoked" together with unbelievers suggests a close, binding relationship that could influence one's values and behavior. Paul is not advocating for isolation from the world but rather a discerning engagement that prioritizes faithfulness to God.

The references to the temple of God and the call to be separate draw from the Old Testament, particularly the covenantal language of Leviticus and Isaiah. By invoking these scriptures, Paul reminds the Corinthians of their identity as God's people and the ethical implications of that identity.

3. The Appeal for Reconciliation

Throughout this chapter, and indeed the entire letter, Paul is deeply concerned with reconciliation—both between himself and the Corinthians and between the Corinthians and God. His appeals are marked by a tone of urgency and sincerity. In verses 11-13, he writes: "We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians, and opened wide our hearts to you. We are not withholding our affection from you, but you are withholding yours from us. As a fair exchange—I speak as to my children—open wide your hearts also" (2 Corinthians 6:11-13, NIV).

Paul's plea for the Corinthians to open their hearts reflects his desire for a restored relationship based on mutual love and trust. This appeal is not merely about personal reconciliation but is intrinsically linked to their spiritual well-being and unity in Christ.

The Broader Theological Implications

2 Corinthians 6 is a rich text that offers insights into the nature of Christian ministry, the call to holiness, and the imperative of reconciliation. Paul's description of the paradoxes of ministry highlights the reality that following Christ often involves suffering and hardship, yet it is also marked by profound joy and spiritual richness. This duality reflects the mystery of the gospel, where weakness becomes strength, and loss becomes gain.

The call to holiness in this chapter is a reminder that being a follower of Christ involves ethical and moral choices that set believers apart from the world. This separation is not about elitism but about living in a way that honors God and reflects His character. The imagery of believers as the temple of God emphasizes the sacredness of their lives and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.

Finally, Paul's appeal for reconciliation underscores the relational aspect of the Christian faith. The gospel is not just about individual salvation but about being part of a community that reflects God's love and grace. Reconciliation with God and with one another is central to this vision, and it requires openness, vulnerability, and a willingness to forgive and be forgiven.

Conclusion

2 Corinthians 6 is a powerful and multifaceted chapter that speaks to the heart of Christian discipleship. Paul's words challenge believers to live with integrity, to pursue holiness, and to embrace the call to reconciliation. His testimony of enduring hardships for the sake of the gospel serves as an inspiration and a reminder of the cost and the joy of following Christ. As the Corinthians were called to respond to God's grace with urgency and commitment, so too are believers today invited to live out their faith with the same fervor and dedication.