Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.
Greet one another with a holy kiss. All God’s people here send their greetings.
May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
- 2 Corinthians 13:11-14
After nearly two years of writing through the letters of 1 and 2 Corinthians, here we are at the end! You can find the very beginning of this series here – my introduction post for 1 Corinthians.
While it’s common for Paul to include closing remarks at the end of each of his letters, these verses are not simply some passing thoughts. These verses share some great insights on living the Christian life, not only for the first-century Corinthians but also for us today.
Paul begins his farewell in verse 11 with a command to rejoice. This rejoicing is not merely an emotional response to favorable circumstances but a profound and enduring gladness rooted in the reality of God’s faithfulness. Amid trials, uncertainties, and disagreements, Paul’s call to "rejoice" reminds believers to anchor their joy in Christ.
The phrase "strive for full restoration" (or "aim for perfection" in some translations) highlights the importance of healing and reconciliation within the Christian community. Relationships, like any other aspect of life, require constant care and intentionality. Paul urges the Corinthians to mend divisions and align their lives and relationships with God’s will. Striving for restoration means actively seeking to repair broken relationships and nurturing unity. It involves humility, forgiveness, and a willingness to prioritize love over pride. This command challenges us to examine areas of our lives where reconciliation may be needed.
Next, Paul says to “encourage one another.” Encouragement is a cornerstone of Christian community. Paul knew the struggles and discouragements believers face, and he called the Corinthians to actively build one another up. Encouragement involves speaking words of hope, affirmation, and truth that inspire others to persevere in their faith. Imagine the transformation within a church or community when its members prioritize encouragement over criticism. What would our relationships look like if we were more intentional about uplifting others? Encouragement is a gift we can offer daily, reminding others of God’s love and promises.
Then, Paul commands us to “be of one mind, live in peace.” Being “of one mind" does not mean uniformity in thought but rather unity in purpose and mission. It is about aligning our hearts with God’s truth and seeking to work together harmoniously. Living in peace requires intentionality; it’s not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of loving relationships characterized by mutual respect and understanding. When we pursue peace, we reflect the nature of the God of love and peace who dwells among us.
At first glance, the idea of greeting one another with a holy kiss in verse 12 might seem outdated or culturally irrelevant. However, the essence of Paul’s instruction remains relevant. The "holy kiss" was a cultural expression of fellowship, love, and unity among believers. It symbolized the breaking down of barriers—whether social, economic, or ethnic—and affirmed the shared bond in Christ.
Today, while the specific act may differ (perhaps a warm handshake, hug, or words of kindness may be more appropriate), the principle endures. Christians are called to express genuine love and acceptance toward one another. This verse reminds us of the importance of intentional gestures that communicate our love and care for others in the body of Christ.
Verse 13 reflects the interconnectedness of the early church. Though separated by geography, Paul emphasizes the unity among believers across different regions. The greetings from "all God’s people" remind the Corinthians that they are part of a larger family of faith. For modern Christians, this serves as a reminder of the global Church. We are not isolated in our faith journey; we are part of a vast and diverse community spanning cultures, languages, and nations. This awareness should inspire us to pray for and support our brothers and sisters worldwide. It also encourages us to foster unity and solidarity within our local congregations.
Paul concludes in verse 14 with a beautiful Trinitarian blessing, emphasizing the unique yet unified roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in the life of believers.
He refers to the grace of Jesus Christ, which is the unmerited favor of God, and it is through Christ that we receive salvation. Paul begins the benediction by highlighting this foundational truth. Jesus’ grace is the source of our forgiveness, freedom, and new life.
The love of God is the driving force behind His plan of redemption. It is a love that is steadfast, sacrificial, and unconditional. This love is not just a theological concept; it is a reality meant to shape our lives. Experiencing God’s love equips us to love others selflessly, breaking down walls of division and fostering genuine relationships.
Finally, Paul highlights the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the Spirit’s role in creating and sustaining community among believers. The Holy Spirit empowers us to live in unity, provides guidance, and cultivates the fruit of the Spirit in our lives.
This final passage of 2 Corinthians reminds us to daily choose joy in our lives, pursue reconciling relationships with others, express God’s love in our lives, and live by the grace of Jesus, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit.
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