2 Corinthians 13:6

And I hope you will realize that we have not failed the test.

Berean Standard Bible

Study note

Setting — Paul writes to the Corinthian church as he prepares for a forthcoming visit, placing this statement between his command to self-examine in 2 Corinthians 13:5 and his prayer for their moral conduct in 2 Corinthians 13:7.

The words — ἐλπίζω (elpizō) means "I hope," and γνῴσεσθε (gnōsesthe) translates to "you will know" or "you will realize." Paul pairs these verbs to express his expectation that the Corinthians will recognize his apostolic standing.

The thread — The verse responds to the demand for proof in 2 Corinthians 13:3 and aligns with the priority stated in 2 Corinthians 13:7 that their right conduct matters more than Paul's appearance of passing the test. It does not extend to 2 Corinthians 12:20, which addresses interpersonal conflict, or 2 Corinthians 13:10, which explains the purpose of his written instructions.

Why it lands — The text states Paul's hope that the Corinthians will recognize he has not failed the test, rather than allowing their examination to become a contest of authority. It asks readers to direct their self-evaluation toward their own faith and conduct instead of measuring an apostle's performance.

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

ἐλπίζωelpizōI hope δὲdenow ὅτιhotithat γνώσεσθεgnōsestheyou will know ὅτιhotithat ἡμεῖςhēmeiswe ourselves οὐκouknot ἐσμὲνesmenare ἀδόκιμοι.adokimoiunapproved.

King James Version

But I trust that ye shall know that we are not reprobates.

Cross-references

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.
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.
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.