2 Corinthians 13:7

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.

2 Corinthians 13:7 (KJV)

Context

Paul closes his second letter to the Corinthians with a prayer for their conduct. He has just urged them to examine themselves to see whether they are in the faith (2 Corinthians 13:5). Now he turns from their testing to their behavior, praying that they would do no evil but would live honestly before God.

Meaning

Paul begins with a genuine prayer to God that the Corinthians would not engage in evil. His desire is not merely moral advice; it is a heartfelt appeal for their spiritual well-being. He wants them to live according to God’s standards of righteousness and to stay away from sinful behavior.

Paul then clarifies that his prayer is not motivated by a desire for personal approval. He is not seeking to appear righteous or superior before them. The Greek words behind “approved” and “reprobates” come from the language of testing and proving. Paul is willing to be considered unapproved, or as failing the test, if it means the Corinthians will do what is right. His primary concern is their spiritual growth, not his own reputation.

The phrase “that which is honest” points to what is right and good in God’s sight. Paul encourages the Corinthians to prioritize integrity in their actions, choices, and relationships. This reflects the Christian calling to live a life that aligns with God’s principles, exhibiting honesty in all areas of life.

The word “reprobates” refers to those who have been rejected or disapproved. Paul acknowledges that some may perceive him and his coworkers as rejected by the world because of their commitment to Christ. Yet he is willing to accept that appearance if it means the Corinthians will continue in righteousness. He would rather be seen as a failure than have them fall into evil.

Biblical connections

This verse connects directly to Paul’s earlier call for self-examination in 2 Corinthians 13:5. He trusts that the Corinthians will discover that he and his companions have not failed the test, but he makes clear that his own vindication is secondary. In the following verses, Paul adds that he can do nothing against the truth but only for the truth (2 Corinthians 13:8), and that he rejoices when he is weak and they are strong (2 Corinthians 13:9). The goal of ministry, he shows, is the spiritual well-being of believers, not the reputation of the minister.

Application

Paul’s prayer models a selfless heart for Christian leaders and believers alike. It teaches that doing what is honest matters more than appearing successful. God’s approval is what ultimately counts, not human judgment. This verse calls us to prioritize the holiness of others over our own recognition, and to be willing to sacrifice our reputation for the sake of what is right.

Reflection

Paul’s willingness to be considered a reprobate reveals Christ-like humility. He measured his own success not by how others saw him, but by whether the Corinthians walked in truth. His example challenges us to examine our own motives: do we seek to do right because it pleases God, even when it costs us the approval of others?