King James Version

What Does 2 Corinthians 6:1 Mean?

2 Corinthians 6:1 in the King James Version says “We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.” — study this verse from 2 Corinthians chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.”

2 Corinthians 6:1 · KJV

Grace

Context

1

We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.

2

(For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)

3

Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed:

Read 2 Corinthians 6 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
We then, as workers together with him (συνεργοῦντες, synergountes, 'working together')—Paul identifies himself and his fellow apostles as synergoi, co-laborers with God in the gospel mission. This participial phrase emphasizes divine-human cooperation in ministry, where God's sovereign action does not eliminate human agency but enlists it.

Receive not the grace of God in vain (εἰς κενὸν, eis kenon, 'into emptiness')—The verb dechomai ('receive') in the aorist infinitive suggests a definitive reception that produces no fruit. Paul warns against treating grace as a dead orthodoxy rather than a transformative power. To receive grace 'in vain' is to hear the gospel without genuine repentance, to claim justification without sanctification, to profess faith without obedience.

This verse connects directly to 5:20's appeal to 'be reconciled to God,' serving as both transition and application. Paul's apostolic ministry is not merely proclamation but urgent entreaty (parakaleo, 'beseech') that the Corinthians' initial response to the gospel would bear lasting fruit in holiness.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Paul wrote 2 Corinthians around AD 55-56 from Macedonia, addressing ongoing tensions with the Corinthian church. The church had received Paul's gospel but struggled with false apostles and worldly living. Chapter 6 continues Paul's defense of his apostolic ministry (chapters 1-7) and his appeal for the Corinthians to live consistently with their profession of faith.

Reflection Questions

  1. In what ways might you be receiving God's grace 'in vain'—professing faith without corresponding transformation?
  2. How does viewing yourself as God's 'co-worker' change your understanding of your role in ministry and witness?
  3. What evidence in your life demonstrates that you have received God's grace with fruitfulness rather than emptiness?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 13 words
Συνεργοῦντες1 of 13

“as workers together”

G4903

to be a fellow-worker, i.e., co-operate

δὲ2 of 13

“then”

G1161

but, and, etc

καὶ3 of 13

“you also”

G2532

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

παρακαλοῦμεν4 of 13

“We”

G3870

to call near, i.e., invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation)

μὴ5 of 13

“not”

G3361

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

εἰς6 of 13

“in”

G1519

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

κενὸν7 of 13

“vain”

G2756

empty (literally or figuratively)

τὴν8 of 13
G3588

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

χάριν9 of 13

“the grace”

G5485

graciousness (as gratifying), of manner or act (abstract or concrete; literal, figurative or spiritual; especially the divine influence upon the heart

τοῦ10 of 13
G3588

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

θεοῦ11 of 13

“of God”

G2316

a deity, especially (with g3588) the supreme divinity; figuratively, a magistrate; exceedingly (by hebraism)

δέξασθαι12 of 13

“receive”

G1209

to receive (in various applications, literally or figuratively)

ὑμᾶς·13 of 13

“that ye”

G5209

you (as the objective of a verb or preposition)

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 6:1 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 6:1 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Hebrews 12:151 Corinthians 3:91 Peter 4:102 Corinthians 5:18-20Galatians 2:21Hebrews 12:25

Test Your Knowledge

2 Corinthians 6 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Corinthians Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

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