Bible Strands
2 Corinthians 13:3
since you are demanding proof that Christ is speaking through me. He is not weak in dealing with you but is powerful among you.
Berean Standard Bible
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Study note
Setting — Paul addresses the Corinthian church while warning of an imminent third visit, directly following his declaration in the preceding verse that he will not spare returning sinners.
The words — The Greek terms δοκιμὴν (dokimēn) and ζητεῖτε (zēteite) literally denote a demanded proof or verification that the Corinthians are actively seeking.
The thread — This motif of Spirit-empowered speech and apostolic authority runs through Matthew 10:20, Luke 21:15, and 2 Corinthians 10:8.
Why it lands — The text requires readers to recognize that Christ’s power operates through apostolic ministry and to submit to divine verification rather than human skepticism.
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
Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is mighty in you.
Cross-references
- Matthew 10:20 For it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.
- Luke 21:15 For I will give you speech and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict.
- 2 Corinthians 10:8 For even if I boast somewhat excessively about the authority the Lord gave us for building you up rather than tearing you down, I will not be ashamed.
- 2 Corinthians 12:12 The marks of a true apostle—signs, wonders, and miracles—were performed among you with great perseverance.
- 1 Corinthians 9:1 Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Are you yourselves not my workmanship in the Lord?
- Matthew 18:18 Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.
- 1 Corinthians 5:4 When you are assembled in the name of our Lord Jesus and I am with you in spirit, along with the power of the Lord Jesus,
- 2 Corinthians 2:6 The punishment imposed on him by the majority is sufficient for him.
- 2 Corinthians 2:10 If you forgive anyone, I also forgive him. And if I have forgiven anything, I have forgiven it in the presence of Christ for your sake,
- 2 Corinthians 3:1 Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? Or do we need, like some people, letters of recommendation to you or from you?