Bible Strands
2 Corinthians 1:23
I call God as my witness that it was in order to spare you that I did not return to Corinth.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — Paul writes to the Corinthian church, explaining his delayed visit to spare them from a severe confrontation. He frames this decision within his broader ministry of strengthening rather than dominating their faith.
The words — The phrase ἐπικαλοῦμαι θεὸν (epikaloumai theon) literally means "I call upon God." Paul uses this invocation to ground his administrative delay in divine accountability rather than personal preference.
The thread — Paul employs this same witness formula when swearing to the Galatians (Galatians 1:20) and when testifying to the Romans (Romans 1:9) about his constant remembrance of his readers.
Why it lands — The text states that Paul withheld a visit specifically to protect the Corinthians from harm. Readers must acknowledge that leadership decisions require accountability to God and prioritize the community's spiritual welfare over personal timing.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
Moreover I call God for a record upon my soul, that to spare you I came not as yet unto Corinth.
Cross-references
- Galatians 1:20 I assure you before God that what I am writing to you is no lie.
- 1 Corinthians 4:21 Which do you prefer? Shall I come to you with a rod, or in love and with a gentle spirit?
- Romans 1:9 God, whom I serve with my spirit in preaching the gospel of His Son, is my witness how constantly I remember you
- 2 Corinthians 13:2 I already warned you the second time I was with you. So now in my absence I warn those who sinned earlier and everyone else: If I return, I will not spare anyone,
- 2 Corinthians 13:10 This is why I write these things while absent, so that when I am present I will not need to be severe in my use of the authority that the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down.
- 2 Corinthians 10:6 And we will be ready to punish every act of disobedience, as soon as your obedience is complete.
- 2 Corinthians 12:20 For I am afraid that when I come, I may not find you as I wish, and you may not find me as you wish. I fear that there may be quarreling, jealousy, rage, rivalry, slander, gossip, arrogance, and disorder.
- Philippians 1:8 God is my witness how I long for all of you with the affection of Christ Jesus.
- Romans 9:1 I speak the truth in Christ; I am not lying, as confirmed by my conscience in the Holy Spirit.
- 1 Corinthians 5:5 hand this man over to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved on the Day of the Lord.