What Does 2 Corinthians 6:13 Mean?

Now for a recompence in the same (τὴν δὲ αὐτὴν ἀντιμισθίαν, tēn de autēn antimisthian)—Antimisthia means recompense, repayment, or exchange in kind. Paul uses commercial metaphor: as fair return for my enlarged heart toward you, I ask for reciprocal enlargement from you. Autēn ('same' or 'likewise') emphasizes the matching nature of what Paul requests—the same open-hearted affection he's shown them.

I speak as unto my children (ὡς τέκνοις λέγω, hōs teknois legō)—Teknon (child) indicates both the natural authority of Paul's apostolic fatherhood and the tender affection of parental love. Paul founded the Corinthian church (1 Cor 4:15: 'In Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel'), giving him paternal standing. But the term also conveys warmth—he addresses them not as rebellious subjects but as beloved children who need correction and encouragement.

Be ye also enlarged (πλατύνθητε καὶ ὑμεῖς, platynthēte kai hymeis)—The aorist imperative platynthēte commands decisive action: 'enlarge your hearts!' Kai hymeis ('also you') creates reciprocity: I have enlarged my heart toward you; now you enlarge yours toward me. This isn't mere sentimentalism but a call to repentance—to put away suspicion, criticism, and coolness, replacing them with renewed trust and affection.

Paul's appeal combines authority and tenderness, directness and warmth. He commands as an apostle but entreats as a father. The enlargement he seeks isn't merely emotional warmth but restored relationship based on truth and mutual trust.