2 Corinthians 1:13 kjv

For we write none other things unto you, than what ye read or acknowledge; and I trust ye shall acknowledge even to the end;

2 Corinthians 1:13 nkjv

For we are not writing any other things to you than what you read or understand. Now I trust you will understand, even to the end

2 Corinthians 1:13 niv

For we do not write you anything you cannot read or understand. And I hope that,

2 Corinthians 1:13 esv

For we are not writing to you anything other than what you read and understand and I hope you will fully understand ?

2 Corinthians 1:13 nlt

Our letters have been straightforward, and there is nothing written between the lines and nothing you can't understand. I hope someday you will fully understand us,

2 Corinthians 1 verses

2 Corinthians 1 13 Meaning

The Apostle Paul reassures the Corinthians that his written words are not cryptic or deceptive, but plain and consistent with what they can readily understand. He implies that his communications align with their present reading and comprehension, expressing a strong trust that their understanding and full spiritual recognition of the truth he imparts will continue to deepen and endure until the very end, possibly referring to the coming of Christ or the conclusion of their journey of faith.

2 Corinthians 1 13 Context

This verse is situated within Paul's initial defense and explanation to the Corinthian church. In 2 Corinthians 1:12, Paul asserts the integrity and sincerity of his conscience and conduct, both globally and specifically towards them. Verse 13 flows directly from this affirmation of integrity. The Corinthians had accused Paul of vacillation regarding his travel plans (2 Cor 1:15-17) and perhaps even of being deceptive or insincere in his preaching and writing. Against this backdrop, Paul states that his written communication is always plain and understandable, lacking hidden meanings or complex rhetorical devices common in Greco-Roman culture that could be manipulated. He emphasizes that what they "read" and "acknowledge" aligns perfectly, affirming his transparent communication. His hope "even to the end" underscores his confidence in their ability to maintain this deeper understanding of his ministry and God's truth, possibly implying recognition of him as a true apostle of Christ until the final day.

2 Corinthians 1 13 Word analysis

• For (γάρ, gar): A causal conjunction connecting to Paul's previous statement in verse 12 about his transparent conscience. It signals that this verse offers further explanation or justification for his consistent behavior and communication.
• we write (γράφω, graphō): Refers to Paul's act of communication through epistles, which was a significant part of his apostolic ministry.
• none other things (οὐ γὰρ ἄλλα, ou gar alla): Literally, "nothing else." This emphatic negation highlights the exclusivity and straightforwardness of Paul's message. There are no hidden agendas or obscure meanings; his message is consistent and plain.
• unto you (ὑμῖν, hymin): Direct address to the Corinthian believers, emphasizing the personal and pastoral nature of his letters.
• than what (ἀλλ’ ἢ ἃ, all' ē ha): "except what." This clause further clarifies that what Paul writes is solely that which they already can or should grasp.
• ye read (ἀναγινώσκετε, anaginōskete): From anaginosko, meaning "to read aloud," "to know again." It can refer to the superficial act of reading, but given the context of public readings in ancient churches, it implies what is presented plainly before them.
• or acknowledge (ἢ καὶ ἐπιγινώσκετε, ē kai epiginōskete): The key term is epiginōskete, from epiginōskō. While anaginosko (read) suggests receiving information, epiginōskō signifies a deeper, more accurate, or fuller knowledge and understanding—to "fully know," "perceive clearly," "recognize." The "or even" (kai) implies that beyond just reading, they also fully comprehend the truth and implications. It refers to a deep spiritual apprehension, not mere intellectual assent.
• and I trust (ἐλπίζω δέ, elpizō de): From elpizō, "to hope," "to trust." Paul expresses a confident expectation and hope, rooted in divine faithfulness, that their spiritual perception will persist and deepen. This hope is not a wishful thought but a confident conviction.
• ye shall acknowledge (ἐπιγνώσεσθε, epignōsesthai): Future tense of epiginōskō. This indicates Paul's expectation that their profound understanding will not diminish but rather continue to grow or solidify over time.
• even to the end (ἕως τέλους, heōs telous): Telos means "end," "goal," "completion." This phrase can signify to the end of their lives, the end of the current age, or the second coming of Christ. It stresses the enduring and final nature of this complete spiritual understanding, contrasting with any temporary or partial misunderstandings.

• "For we write none other things unto you, than what ye read or acknowledge;": This phrase asserts Paul's consistency, transparency, and the clarity of his communication. He is not being manipulative or subtle but is plainly conveying truths that are accessible to them, appealing to their capacity for both intellectual comprehension (read) and spiritual discernment (acknowledge).
• "and I trust ye shall acknowledge even to the end;": This part reveals Paul's confident expectation for the Corinthians' spiritual maturity and perseverance. It underscores the importance of a lasting, unwavering, and profound grasp of the truth, implying that genuine acknowledgment has implications for one's steadfastness in faith.

2 Corinthians 1 13 Bonus section

The concept of epiginōskō (to acknowledge/know fully) is crucial in Paul's writings, often signifying a richer, personal, and transformative knowledge of God and His will, contrasted with mere intellectual acquaintance. It implies an experiential knowledge that brings recognition and transformation. The phrase "even to the end" carries eschatological weight, hinting at the steadfastness required of believers until the consummation of all things, aligning with warnings against apostasy and exhortations to endure in faith. Paul's confidence in their "acknowledgment to the end" stems not from their inherent strength, but from his trust in God's faithfulness and grace working within them. Some scholars suggest "what ye read" could refer specifically to a previous letter or perhaps simply all of Paul's correspondence in general, affirming his consistent message across different communications.

2 Corinthians 1 13 Commentary

Paul’s statement in 2 Corinthians 1:13 is a powerful assertion of his integrity and transparency as an apostle. Facing accusations of vacillation and insincerity, he defends himself by affirming that his words are consistently clear and straightforward, echoing the sincerity of his actions mentioned in verse 12. He uses the contrast between merely "reading" (superficial comprehension) and "acknowledging" (deep, full, spiritual understanding) to convey his desire for the Corinthians' profound grasp of the truth he presents. His ultimate hope is that this complete understanding, far from being temporary, will persevere "even to the end," guiding them through any challenges and sustaining their faith until Christ's return or their lives' completion. This verse emphasizes not just Paul's reliable communication, but also the continuous spiritual growth and enduring commitment expected of believers.