King James Version

What Does 2 Corinthians 2:9 Mean?

2 Corinthians 2:9 in the King James Version says “For to this end also did I write, that I might know the proof of you, whether ye be obedient in all things.” — study this verse from 2 Corinthians chapter 2 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“For to this end also did I write, that I might know the proof of you, whether ye be obedient in all things.”

2 Corinthians 2:9 · KJV

Context

7

So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.

8

Wherefore I beseech you that ye would confirm your love toward him.

9

For to this end also did I write, that I might know the proof of you, whether ye be obedient in all things.

10

To whom ye forgive any thing, I forgive also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the person of Christ; person: or, sight in the person: or, in the sight

11

Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.

Read 2 Corinthians 2 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
For to this end also did I write, that I might know the proof of you—The term dokimēn (δοκιμήν, "proof, testing, character") suggests tested authenticity, like metal refined by fire. Paul's severe letter had a secondary purpose beyond addressing specific sin: testing whether the Corinthians would obey apostolic authority. Church discipline reveals congregational character—will they submit to Scripture's demands even when costly?

Whether ye be obedient in all things—The phrase eis panta (εἰς πάντα, "in all things") indicates comprehensive obedience, not selective compliance. The test encompassed both implementing discipline when required and offering restoration when appropriate. Many churches will discipline but refuse to restore; others will tolerate sin to avoid conflict. Full obedience requires both courage to confront and grace to forgive. Paul's test assessed their willingness to obey even when emotionally difficult.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Apostolic authority in the first-century church required demonstrated obedience to apostolic teaching. Paul's letters often include similar tests of compliance (1 Cor 14:37-38, 2 Thess 3:14). This was not arbitrary authoritarianism but recognition that apostolic teaching carried Christ's authority.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do churches today demonstrate selective obedience to Scripture?
  2. Why is the willingness to both discipline and restore a test of true obedience?
  3. What does Paul's testing of the Corinthians teach about apostolic authority?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 15 words
εἰς1 of 15

“in”

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

τοῦτο2 of 15

“this end”

G5124

that thing

γὰρ3 of 15

“For”

G1063

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

καὶ4 of 15

“also”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἔγραψα5 of 15

“did I write”

G1125

to "grave", especially to write; figuratively, to describe

ἵνα6 of 15

“that”

G2443

in order that (denoting the purpose or the result)

γνῶ7 of 15

“I might know”

G1097

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

τὴν8 of 15
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δοκιμὴν9 of 15

“the proof”

G1382

test (abstractly or concretely); by implication, trustiness

ὑμῶν10 of 15

“of you”

G5216

of (from or concerning) you

εἰ11 of 15

“whether”

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

εἰς12 of 15

“in”

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

πάντα13 of 15

“all things”

G3956

all, any, every, the whole

ὑπήκοοί14 of 15

“obedient”

G5255

attentively listening, i.e., (by implication) submissive

ἐστε15 of 15

“ye be”

G2075

ye are

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 2:9 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 2:9 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

2 Corinthians 10:62 Corinthians 7:12-15Philemon 1:21Philippians 2:22Deuteronomy 8:2Deuteronomy 13:3

Test Your Knowledge

2 Corinthians 2 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Corinthians Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read 2 Corinthians 2 with CommentaryAll 2 Corinthians ChaptersComplete 2 Corinthians QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes