King James Version

What Does 2 Corinthians 13:6 Mean?

2 Corinthians 13:6 in the King James Version says “But I trust that ye shall know that we are not reprobates.” — study this verse from 2 Corinthians chapter 13 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

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

2 Corinthians 13:6 · KJV

Context

4

For though he was crucified through weakness, yet he liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in him, but we shall live with him by the power of God toward you. in him: or, with him

5

Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates ?

6

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

7

Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appear approved, but that ye should do that which is honest, though we be as reprobates.

8

For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.

Read 2 Corinthians 13 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
But I trust that ye shall know that we are not reprobates—Paul expresses confidence (elpizō, ἐλπίζω, "I hope/trust") that the Corinthians will recognize his apostolic authenticity. The irony: Paul hopes they'll discover he is not adokimos (ἀδόκιμος, "disqualified/reprobate") precisely as they examine themselves. If they pass their self-examination (v. 5), they'll recognize Paul's ministry produced genuine faith, thus validating his apostleship.

This verse completes Paul's rhetorical reversal: the Corinthians' demand for proof of Paul's authority (v. 3) becomes self-examination (v. 5), which—if passed—proves Paul authentic (v. 6). Their spiritual life is the living proof of his apostolic authority, creating an unbreakable logical chain: Christ in them → Paul's ministry genuine → Paul's authority validated.

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Historical & Cultural Context

False teachers in Corinth questioned Paul's credentials (2 Cor 10-12), perhaps pointing to their own eloquence, visions, or miraculous signs. Paul consistently refuses to compete on those terms, instead pointing to the Corinthians themselves as his "letter of recommendation" (2 Cor 3:2)—their transformed lives prove his gospel authentic.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does the fruit of a teacher's ministry validate (or invalidate) their authority?
  2. Why does Paul tie his own vindication to the Corinthians' spiritual state rather than defending his credentials?
  3. What does this teach about evaluating ministries today—what 'proof' should we seek?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 9 words
ἐλπίζω1 of 9

“I trust”

G1679

to expect or confide

δὲ2 of 9

“But”

G1161

but, and, etc

ὅτι3 of 9

“that”

G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

γνώσεσθε4 of 9

“ye shall know”

G1097

to "know" (absolutely) in a great variety of applications and with many implications (as follow, with others not thus clearly expressed)

ὅτι5 of 9

“that”

G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

ἡμεῖς6 of 9

“we”

G2249

we (only used when emphatic)

οὐκ7 of 9

“not”

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

ἐσμὲν8 of 9

“are”

G2070

we are

ἀδόκιμοι9 of 9

“reprobates”

G96

unapproved, i.e., rejected; by implication, worthless (literally or morally)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Corinthians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Corinthians 13:6 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 2 Corinthians 13:6 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Corinthians 12:202 Corinthians 13:3-42 Corinthians 13:10

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