2Cor 6 | MHM | STEP | Ministry of the Apostles In this section, Paul explains the role and responsibility of the apostles as ministers of the gospel. He urges people to respond to the message of reconciliation with God while there is still time. Paul also shares how the apostles strive to live faithfully, endure difficulties, and maintain integrity in their work, so that their ministry reflects Christ’s message and brings glory to God. v. 1 : Paul pleads with the Corinthians not to receive the grace of God in vain (2 Corinthians 6:1 ). The gospel offers salvation, but it will not benefit those who hear it unless they truly believe and respond. Paul and his fellow apostles are called workers together with God . They serve God’s purposes, not their own, and they encourage people gently and lovingly to accept God’s grace and be reconciled to Him.

‏ 2 Corinthians 6

Ministry of the Apostles

In this section, Paul explains the role and responsibility of the apostles as ministers of the gospel. He urges people to respond to the message of reconciliation with God while there is still time. Paul also shares how the apostles strive to live faithfully, endure difficulties, and maintain integrity in their work, so that their ministry reflects Christ’s message and brings glory to God.

v. 1: Paul pleads with the Corinthians not to receive the grace of God in vain(2 Corinthians 6:1 ^a). The gospel offers salvation, but it will not benefit those who hear it unless they truly believe and respond. Paul and his fellow apostles are called workers together with God. They serve God’s purposes, not their own, and they encourage people gently and lovingly to accept God’s grace and be reconciled to Him.

v. 2: Paul emphasizes that now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation(2 Corinthians 6:2 ^b). The gospel brings the promise of salvation, but this promise is only available while the opportunity lasts. Paul reminds believers that today is the time to act, because tomorrow is uncertain. God’s grace should not be delayed or ignored.

v. 3: Paul says they are careful to give no offense in anything, that the ministry may not be blamed(2 Corinthians 6:3 ^c). The apostles avoid actions that might cause others to criticize the gospel. They are cautious in how they live, knowing that some people are quick to take offense and use it as a reason to reject their message. Paul seeks to live in a way that reflects the truth of the gospel.

v. 4-5: Paul explains how they strive to approve themselves as ministers of Godthrough faithfulness in all circumstances (2 Corinthians 6:4 ^d). They endure afflictions, hardships, and suffering. Paul lists many examples: in much patience, in tribulations, in needs, in distresses, in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in sleeplessness, and in fastings(2 Corinthians 6:4-5 ^e). Despite these challenges, they remain steadfast and faithful in their service to God.

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v. 6-7: The apostles act from pureness, knowledge, longsuffering, kindness, by the Holy Spirit, by sincere love, by the word of truth, by the power of God(2 Corinthians 6:6-7 ^f). These qualities guide their ministry. They rely on God’s power and strength, wearing the armor of righteousnessto protect them from temptations and challenges, whether in times of prosperity or adversity.

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v. 8-10: Paul describes the contrasts and paradoxes they face in their ministry. They experience honor and dishonor, evil report and good report(2 Corinthians 6:8 ^g). Some people view them as deceivers, while others see them as truthful. They are unknown, yet well known; dying, and behold we live; chastened, yet not killed(2 Corinthians 6:9 ^h). Though they are poor in worldly possessions, they make many rich by sharing the gospel. They have nothing, yet possess all things(2 Corinthians 6:10 ⁱ). This shows how a Christian’s life is full of challenges, but also full of spiritual blessings and hope found in Christ.

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Cautions against Mingling with Unbelievers

In this section, Paul speaks directly to the Corinthians with deep love and care. He warns them not to join closely with unbelievers. This is important for their spiritual health and faithfulness to God. Paul explains not only the warning but also the reasons behind it, showing that believers must keep themselves pure and honor their special relationship with God.

v. 11-13: Paul shares his sincere affection for the Corinthians, saying, O Corinthians! Our mouth is open to you, our heart is enlarged(2 Corinthians 6:11 ^j). He wants them to know how much he loves them, like a father loves his children. If there is any distance in their relationship, it is not from Paul, but from the Corinthians themselves. He simply asks them to return his love and trust, as children should love their father (2 Corinthians 6:11-13 ^k).

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v. 14: Paul warns them, Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers(2 Corinthians 6:14 ^l). This means Christians should not form close partnerships, such as marriage or deep friendship, with those who do not share their faith. When good and bad are joined together, it often hurts the good more than it helps the bad.

v. 15: He explains that believers and unbelievers are very different. What accord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever?(2 Corinthians 6:15 ^m). Christ and Belial (a name for evil) are completely opposed. There can be no true unity between them.

v. 16: Paul continues, What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God(2 Corinthians 6:16 ⁿ). Christians are God’s temple, set apart for His worship. God promises to live among His people and to be their God, so they should not mix His temple with idols or false worship.

v. 17: Because of this, Paul urges, Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you(2 Corinthians 6:17 ^o). Believers must stay away from things and people that lead them into sin, just as one would avoid touching something dirty to stay clean.

v. 18: Paul ends with God’s promise: I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty(2 Corinthians 6:18 ^p). To be God’s children is the greatest honor. Christians should not dishonor God by mixing with unbelievers, but should live as God’s special people, grateful for His love and promises.