2 Corinthians 13:11

Finally, brethren. Paul’s concluding words include a tender farewell, a final admonition (v. 11), a parting salutation (v. 12), and a benediction. His closing exhortation enjoins four Christian graces that will safeguard the Corinthians against the evils that beset them.

Farewell. Literally, “rejoice,” “be glad,” “fare well” (cf. Phil. 3:1; 4:4).

Be perfect. Literally, “be mended,” “be put in order,” “be adjusted.” All that has been out of joint is to be restored. See on Matt. 5:48.

Be of good comfort. Gr. parakaled, “be admonished,” “be exhorted” (see on Matt. 5:4), that is, accept the counsel I have given you. The noun and verb forms of this word occur 28 times in the book. The Corinthians are to encourage and strengthen one another to do good. So doing, they will have no time to devour one another.

Be of one mind. Literally, “be of the same mind.” This phrase is particularly characteristic of Paul (Rom. 12:16; 15:6; Phil. 2:2; 3:16; 4:2). Christian unity was the burden of Christ’s last recorded prayer for His disciples (John 17:11, 21-23). The supreme need of the Corinthian church was the “unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Eph. 4:2-7).

Live in peace. Or, “live in harmony.” Peace is one of the great legacies Christ bequeathed to His church (John 14:27; 16:33; cf. ch. 20:21, 26; Acts 10:36). It has always been an essential part of the Christian gospel and a test of Christian experience (Rom. 5:1; 10:15; 14:17, 19; 1 Cor. 14:33; Eph. 2:14). To the extent of his ability the Christian is to “live peaceably with all men” (Rom. 12:18). If outward peace is not possible because of factors over which the Christian has no control, he can still enjoy peace in his own heart. “Blessed are the peacemakers” (see on Matt. 5:9).

God of love. See on 1 John 4:8.

Peace. See on Rom. 15:33.