2 Corinthians 5 - 9
1
For we know that if k the tent that is l our earthly home is destroyed, we have a building from God, m a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.
2
For in this tent n we groan, longing to o put on our heavenly dwelling,
3
if indeed by putting it on we may not be found naked.
4
For while we are still in this tent, we groan, being burdened - not that we would be unclothed, but that we would be further clothed, so that what is mortal p may be swallowed up by life.
5
He who has prepared us for this very thing is God, q who has given us the Spirit as a guarantee.
6
So we are always of good courage. We know that r while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord,
7
for s we walk by faith, not t by sight.
8
Yes, we are of good courage, and we u would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord.
9
So whether we are at home or away, we make it our aim to v please him.
10
For w we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, x so that each one may receive what is due for what he has done in the body, whether good or evil.
11
Therefore, knowing y the fear of the Lord, we persuade others. But z what we are is known to God, and I hope it is known also to your conscience.
12
a We are not commending ourselves to you again but b giving you cause to boast about us, so that you may be able to answer those who boast about outward appearance and not about what is in the heart.
13
For if we c are beside ourselves, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you.
14
For the love of Christ d controls us, because we have concluded this: that e one has died for all, therefore all have died;
15
and he died for all, f that those who live might no longer live for themselves but g for him who for their sake died and was raised.
16
From now on, therefore, h we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we once regarded Christ according to the flesh, we regard him thus no longer.
17
Therefore, if anyone is i in Christ, he is j a new creation. k The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.
18
All this is from God, l who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us m the ministry of reconciliation;
19
that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, n not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us m the message of reconciliation.
20
Therefore, o we are ambassadors for Christ, p God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.
21
q For our sake he made him to be sin r who knew no sin, so that in him we might become s the righteousness of God.
2 Corinthians 6
1
t Working together with him, then, u we appeal to you v not to receive the grace of God in vain.
2
For he says,
w "In a favorable time I listened to you,
and in a day of salvation I have helped you."
Behold, x now is the y favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.
3
We z put no obstacle in anyone's way, so that no fault may be found with our ministry,
4
but a as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: b by great endurance, c in afflictions, d hardships, calamities,
5
e beatings, imprisonments, f riots, labors, sleepless nights, hunger;
6
g by purity, h knowledge, patience, kindness, i the Holy Spirit, j genuine love;
7
by k truthful speech, and l the power of God; with m the weapons of righteousness for the right hand and for the left;
8
through honor and dishonor, n through slander and praise. We are treated as impostors, and yet are true;
9
as unknown, and o yet well known; p as dying, and behold, we live; q as punished, and yet not killed;
10
r as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; s as poor, yet making many rich; t as having nothing, u yet possessing everything.
11
We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians; v our heart is wide open.
12
You are not restricted by us, but w you are restricted in your own affections.
13
x In return (I speak y as to children) widen your hearts also.
14
z Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For a what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or b what fellowship has light with darkness?
15
c What accord has Christ with Belial? Or what portion does a believer share with an unbeliever?
16
What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For d we are the temple of the living God; as God said,
e "I will make my dwelling among them and f walk among them,
and g I will be their God,
and they shall be my people.
17
Therefore h go out from their midst,
and be separate from them, says the Lord,
and touch no unclean thing;
then I will welcome you,
18
i and I will be a father to you,
and you shall be sons and daughters to me,
says the Lord Almighty."
2 Corinthians 7
1
Since we have these promises, beloved, j let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God.
2
k Make room in your hearts for us. l We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have taken advantage of no one.
3
I do not say this to condemn you, for I said before that m you are in our hearts, to die together and to live together.
4
I am acting with n great boldness toward you; o I have great pride in you; p I am filled with comfort. In all our affliction, I am overflowing with joy.
5
For even q when we came into Macedonia, our bodies had no rest, but we were afflicted at every turn - r fighting without and fear within.
6
But s God, who comforts the downcast, t comforted us by the coming of Titus,
7
and not only by his coming but also by the comfort with which he was comforted by you, as he told us of your longing, your mourning, your zeal for me, so that I rejoiced still more.
8
For u even if I made you grieve with my letter, I do not regret it - though v I did regret it, for I see that that letter grieved you, though only for a while.
9
As it is, I rejoice, not because you were grieved, but w because you were grieved into repenting. For you felt a godly grief, so that you suffered no loss through us.
10
For x godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas y worldly grief produces death.
11
For see what earnestness this godly grief has produced in you, but also what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what fear, what longing, z what zeal, what punishment! At every point you have proved yourselves innocent in the matter.
12
So although I wrote to you, it was not for the sake of the one a who did the wrong, nor for the sake of the one who suffered the wrong, but in order that your earnestness for us might be revealed to you in the sight of God.
13
Therefore b we are comforted. And besides our own comfort, we rejoiced still more at the joy of Titus, because his spirit c has been refreshed by you all.
14
For d whatever boasts I made to him about you, I was not put to shame. But just as everything we said to you e was true, so also our boasting before Titus has proved true.
15
And his affection for you is even greater, as he remembers f the obedience of you all, how you received him with fear and trembling.
16
I rejoice, because I have perfect g confidence in you.
2 Corinthians 8
1
We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been h given among the churches of Macedonia,
2
for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and i their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part.
3
For they gave j according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord,
4
begging us earnestly k for the favor of taking part in l the relief of the saints -
5
and this, not as we expected, but they m gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us.
6
Accordingly, n we urged Titus that as he had started, so he should complete among you o this act of grace.
7
But as p you excel in everything - in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all earnestness, and in our love for you - q see that you excel in this act of grace also.
8
r I say this not as a command, but to prove by the earnestness of others that your love also is genuine.
9
For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that s though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.
10
And in this matter t I give my judgment: u this benefits you, who v a year ago started not only to do this work but also to desire to do it.
11
So now finish doing it as well, so that your readiness in desiring it may be matched by your completing it out of what you have.
12
For if the readiness is there, it is acceptable w according to what a person has, not according to what he does not have.
13
For I do not mean that others should be eased and you burdened, but that as a matter of fairness
14
your abundance at the present time should supply x their need, so that their abundance may supply your need, that there may be fairness.
15
As it is written, y "Whoever gathered much had nothing left over, and whoever gathered little had no lack."
16
But z thanks be to God, a who put into the heart of Titus the same earnest care I have for you.
17
For b he not only accepted our appeal, but being himself very earnest he is going to you of his own accord.
18
With him we are sending c the brother who is famous among d all the churches for his preaching of the gospel.
19
And not only that, but he has been e appointed by the churches to travel with us as we carry out this act of f grace that is being ministered by us, g for the glory of the Lord himself and to show our good will.
20
We take this course so that no one should blame us about this generous gift that is being administered by us,
21
for h we aim at what is honorable i not only in the Lord's sight but also in the sight of man.
22
And with them we are sending our brother whom we have often tested and found earnest in many matters, but who is now more earnest than ever because of his great confidence in you.
23
As for Titus, he is j my partner and fellow worker for your benefit. And as for our brothers, they are messengers of the churches, the glory of Christ.
24
So give proof before the churches of your love and of k our boasting about you to these men.
2 Corinthians 9
1
Now l it is superfluous for me to write to you about m the ministry for the saints,
2
for I know your readiness, n of which I boast about you to the people of Macedonia, saying that Achaia has been ready o since last year. And your zeal has stirred up most of them.
3
But p I am sending the brothers so that our boasting about you may not prove empty in this matter, so that you may be ready, q as I said you would be.
4
Otherwise, if some Macedonians r come with me and find that you are not ready, we would be humiliated - to say nothing of you - for being so confident.
5
So I thought it necessary to urge the brothers to go on ahead to you and arrange in advance for the s gift you have promised, so that it may be ready t as a willing gift, u not as an exaction.
6
The point is this: v whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.
7
Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, w not reluctantly or under compulsion, for x God loves a cheerful giver.
8
And y God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.
9
As it is written,
z "He has distributed freely, he has given to the poor;
his righteousness endures forever."
10
He who supplies a seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and b increase the harvest of your righteousness.
11
c You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which d through us will produce thanksgiving to God.
12
For the ministry of this service is not only supplying e the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God.
13
By their approval of this service, f they will glorify God because of your submission flowing from your g confession of the gospel of Christ, and the generosity of your contribution for them and for all others,
14
while they long for you and pray for you, because of the surpassing grace of God upon you.
15
h Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift!
-
Cross References
2 Peter 1:13 - 14
I think it right, as long as I am in this body, to stir you up by way of reminder.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 4:7
But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.
-
Cross References
Mark 14:58
"We heard him say, 'I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and in three days I will build another, not made with hands.'"
-
Cross References
Romans 8:23
And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.
-
Cross References
1 Corinthians 15:53 - 54
For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality.
-
Cross References
1 Corinthians 15:54
When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written: "Death is swallowed up in victory.
-
Cross References
Romans 8:23
And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.
2 Corinthians 1:22
And who has also put his seal on us and given us his Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee.
-
Cross References
Hebrews 11:13 - 14
These all died in faith, not having received the things promised, but having seen them and greeted them from afar, and having acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth.
-
Cross References
John 20:29
Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.
2 Corinthians 4:18
As we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.
-
Cross References
1 Corinthians 13:12
For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.
-
Cross References
Philippians 1:23
I am hard pressed between the two. My desire is to depart and be with Christ, for that is far better.
-
Cross References
Colossians 1:10
So as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.
1 Thessalonians 4:1
Finally, then, brothers, we ask and urge you in the Lord Jesus, that as you received from us how you ought to walk and to please God, just as you are doing, that you do so more and more.
-
Cross References
Matthew 25:31 - 32
When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, then he will sit on his glorious throne.
Romans 14:10
Why do you pass judgment on your brother? Or you, why do you despise your brother? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God.
Acts 10:42
And he commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one appointed by God to be judge of the living and the dead.
-
Cross References
Psalms 62:12
And that to you, O Lord, belongs steadfast love. For you will render to a man according to his work.
-
Cross References
Job 31:23
For I was in terror of calamity from God, and I could not have faced his majesty.
Acts 9:31
So the church throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria had peace and was being built up. And walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Spirit, it multiplied.
Hebrews 10:31
It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
Jude 1:23
Save others by snatching them out of the fire; to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 4:2
But we have renounced disgraceful, underhanded ways. We refuse to practice cunning or to tamper with God's word, but by the open statement of the truth we would commend ourselves to everyone's conscience in the sight of God.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 3:1
Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? Or do we need, as some do, letters of recommendation to you, or from you?
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 1:14
Just as you did partially acknowledge us - that on the day of our Lord Jesus you will boast of us as we will boast of you.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 11:1
I wish you would bear with me in a little foolishness. Do bear with me!
2 Corinthians 11:16 - 17
I repeat, let no one think me foolish. But even if you do, accept me as a fool, so that I too may boast a little.
2 Corinthians 12:6
Though if I should wish to boast, I would not be a fool, for I would be speaking the truth. But I refrain from it, so that no one may think more of me than he sees in me or hears from me.
2 Corinthians 12:11
I have been a fool! You forced me to it, for I ought to have been commended by you. For I was not at all inferior to these super-apostles, even though I am nothing.
-
Cross References
Acts 18:5
When Silas and Timothy arrived from Macedonia, Paul was occupied with the word, testifying to the Jews that the Christ was Jesus.
-
Cross References
Romans 5:15
But the free gift is not like the trespass. For if many died through one man's trespass, much more have the grace of God and the free gift by the grace of that one man Jesus Christ abounded for many.
-
Cross References
Romans 6:11 - 12
So you also must consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus.
Romans 14:7
For none of us lives to himself, and none of us dies to himself.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 12:10
For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
-
Cross References
Galatians 2:6
And from those who seemed to be influential (what they were makes no difference to me; God shows no partiality) - those, I say, who seemed influential added nothing to me.
Philippians 3:7 - 8
But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ.
Colossians 2:11
In him also you were circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, by putting off the body of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ.
1 Timothy 5:21
In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus and of the elect angels I charge you to keep these rules without prejudging, doing nothing from partiality.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 12:2
I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven - whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows.
Romans 16:7
Greet Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen and my fellow prisoners. They are well known to the apostles, and they were in Christ before me.
Galatians 1:22
And I was still unknown in person to the churches of Judea that are in Christ.
-
Cross References
John 3:3
Jesus answered him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.
Romans 6:4
We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.
-
Cross References
Isaiah 43:18 - 19
Remember not the former things, nor consider th...
Revelation 21:5
And he who was seated on the throne said, "Beho...
Isaiah 65:17
For behold, I create new heavens and a new eart...
Ephesians 2:15
By abolishing the law of commandments expressed...
Ephesians 4:24
And to put on the new self, created after the l...
Hebrews 8:13
In speaking of a new covenant, he makes the fir...
-
Cross References
Colossians 1:20
And through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.
Romans 5:10
For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, now that we are reconciled, shall we be saved by his life.
1 John 2:2
He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world.
-
Cross References
Romans 5:11
More than that, we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.
-
Cross References
Psalms 32:2
Blessed is the man against whom the Lord counts no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.
Romans 4:8
Blessed is the man against whom the Lord will not count his sin.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 5:18
All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation.
-
Cross References
Ephesians 6:20
For which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.
Malachi 2:7
For the lips of a priest should guard knowledge, and people should seek instruction from his mouth, for he is the messenger of the Lord of hosts.
Galatians 4:14
And though my condition was a trial to you, you did not scorn or despise me, but received me as an angel of God, as Christ Jesus.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 6:1
Working together with him, then, we appeal to you not to receive the grace of God in vain.
-
Cross References
Romans 8:3
For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do. By sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin, he condemned sin in the flesh.
Galatians 3:13
Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us - for it is written, "Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree" -
Romans 4:25
Who was delivered up for our trespasses and raised for our justification.
-
Cross References
1 Peter 2:22
He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth.
-
Cross References
Romans 1:17
For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, "The righteous shall live by faith.
1 Corinthians 1:30
And because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption.
-
Cross References
Mark 16:20
And they went out and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the message by accompanying signs.]]
1 Corinthians 3:9
For we are God's fellow workers. You are God's field, God's building.
Acts 15:4
When they came to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church and the apostles and the elders, and they declared all that God had done with them.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 5:20
Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.
-
Cross References
Hebrews 12:15
See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no "root of bitterness" springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled.
-
Cross References
Isaiah 49:8
Thus says the Lord : "In a time of favor I have answered you; in a day of salvation I have helped you; I will keep you and give you as a covenant to the people, to establish the land, to apportion the desolate heritages.
-
Cross References
Psalms 32:6
Therefore let everyone who is godly offer prayer to you at a time when you may be found; surely in the rush of great waters, they shall not reach him.
Psalms 69:13
But as for me, my prayer is to you, O Lord. At an acceptable time, O God, in the abundance of your steadfast love answer me in your saving faithfulness.
Isaiah 55:6
Seek the Lord while he may be found; call upon him while he is near.
Hebrews 3:13
But exhort one another every day, as long as it is called "today," that none of you may be hardened by the deceitfulness of sin.
-
Cross References
Luke 4:19
To proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.
-
Cross References
Isaiah 49:8
Thus says the Lord : "In a time of favor I have answered you; in a day of salvation I have helped you; I will keep you and give you as a covenant to the people, to establish the land, to apportion the desolate heritages.
-
Cross References
1 Corinthians 8:13
Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble.
1 Corinthians 9:12
If others share this rightful claim on you, do not we even more? Nevertheless, we have not made use of this right, but we endure anything rather than put an obstacle in the way of the gospel of Christ.
-
Cross References
1 Thessalonians 3:2
And we sent Timothy, our brother and God's coworker in the gospel of Christ, to establish and exhort you in your faith.
2 Timothy 2:24 - 25
And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil.
2 Corinthians 3:6
Who has made us competent to be ministers of a new covenant, not of the letter but of the Spirit. For the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 12:12
The signs of a true apostle were performed among you with utmost patience, with signs and wonders and mighty works.
2 Timothy 3:10
You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness.
-
Cross References
Acts 9:16
For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 12:10
For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 11:23 - 27
Are they servants of Christ? I am a better one - I am talking like a madman - with far greater labors, far more imprisonments, with countless beatings, and often near death.
Acts 16:23
And when they had inflicted many blows upon them, they threw them into prison, ordering the jailer to keep them safely.
-
Cross References
Acts 17:5
But the Jews were jealous, and taking some wicked men of the rabble, they formed a mob, set the city in an uproar, and attacked the house of Jason, seeking to bring them out to the crowd.
-
Cross References
1 Thessalonians 2:10
You are witnesses, and God also, how holy and righteous and blameless was our conduct toward you believers.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 11:6
Even if I am unskilled in speaking, I am not so in knowledge; indeed, in every way we have made this plain to you in all things.
-
Cross References
Romans 15:19
By the power of signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God - so that from Jerusalem and all the way around to Illyricum I have fulfilled the ministry of the gospel of Christ.
1 Thessalonians 1:5
Because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit and with full conviction. You know what kind of men we proved to be among you for your sake.
-
Cross References
Romans 12:9
Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.
James 3:17
But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.
-
Cross References
Ephesians 1:13
In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit.
Colossians 1:5
Because of the hope laid up for you in heaven. Of this you have heard before in the word of the truth, the gospel.
-
Cross References
1 Corinthians 2:5
That your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 10:4
For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds.
Ephesians 6:11 - 17
Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.
-
Cross References
Romans 3:8
And why not do evil that good may come? - as some people slanderously charge us with saying. Their condemnation is just.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 11:6
Even if I am unskilled in speaking, I am not so in knowledge; indeed, in every way we have made this plain to you in all things.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 4:10
Always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies.
-
Cross References
Psalms 118:18
The Lord has disciplined me severely, but he has not given me over to death.
-
Cross References
John 16:22
So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy from you.
2 Corinthians 7:4
I am acting with great boldness toward you; I have great pride in you; I am filled with comfort. In all our affliction, I am overflowing with joy.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 8:9
For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich.
Proverbs 13:7
One pretends to be rich, yet has nothing; another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth.
1 Corinthians 1:5
That in every way you were enriched in him in all speech and all knowledge -
-
Cross References
Acts 3:6
But Peter said, "I have no silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!
-
Cross References
1 Corinthians 7:30
And those who mourn as though they were not mourning, and those who rejoice as though they were not rejoicing, and those who buy as though they had no goods.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 7:3
I do not say this to condemn you, for I said before that you are in our hearts, to die together and to live together.
2 Corinthians 11:11
And why? Because I do not love you? God knows I do!
2 Corinthians 12:15
I will most gladly spend and be spent for your souls. If I love you more, am I to be loved less?
Psalms 119:32
I will run in the way of your commandments when you enlarge my heart!
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 7:2
Make room in your hearts for us. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have taken advantage of no one.
-
Cross References
Galatians 4:12
Brothers, I entreat you, become as I am, for I also have become as you are. You did me no wrong.
-
Cross References
1 Corinthians 4:14
I do not write these things to make you ashamed, but to admonish you as my beloved children.
-
Cross References
Deuteronomy 7:3
You shall not intermarry with them, giving your daughters to their sons or taking their daughters for your sons.
Joshua 23:12
For if you turn back and cling to the remnant of these nations remaining among you and make marriages with them, so that you associate with them and they with you.
Ezra 9:2
For they have taken some of their daughters to be wives for themselves and for their sons, so that the holy race has mixed itself with the peoples of the lands. And in this faithlessness the hand of the officials and chief men has been foremost.
Nehemiah 13:25
And I confronted them and cursed them and beat some of them and pulled out their hair. And I made them take oath in the name of God, saying, "You shall not give your daughters to their sons, or take their daughters for your sons or for yourselves.
1 Corinthians 7:39
A wife is bound to her husband as long as he lives. But if her husband dies, she is free to be married to whom she wishes, only in the Lord.
-
Cross References
Ephesians 5:7
Therefore do not become partners with them.
Ephesians 5:11
Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them.
1 John 1:6
If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.
-
Cross References
Acts 26:18
To open their eyes, so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the power of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.
-
Cross References
1 Corinthians 10:21
You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons. You cannot partake of the table of the Lord and the table of demons.
-
Cross References
Ephesians 2:22
In him you also are being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit.
1 Corinthians 3:16
Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you?
-
Cross References
Leviticus 26:12
And I will walk among you and will be your God, and you shall be my people.
Exodus 29:45
I will dwell among the people of Israel and will be their God.
-
Cross References
Revelation 2:1
To the angel of the church in Ephesus write: 'The words of him who holds the seven stars in his right hand, who walks among the seven golden lampstands.
Revelation 21:3
And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God.
-
Cross References
Exodus 6:7
I will take you to be my people, and I will be your God, and you shall know that I am the Lord your God, who has brought you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians.
Jeremiah 31:33
But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the Lord : I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people.
Ezekiel 11:20
That they may walk in my statutes and keep my rules and obey them. And they shall be my people, and I will be their God.
-
Cross References
Leviticus 26:12
And I will walk among you and will be your God, and you shall be my people.
-
Cross References
Isaiah 52:11
Depart, depart, go out from there; touch no unc...
2 Corinthians 7:1
Since we have these promises, beloved, let us c...
Ezekiel 20:34
I will bring you out from the peoples and gathe...
Ezekiel 20:41
As a pleasing aroma I will accept you, when I b...
Zephaniah 3:20
At that time I will bring you in, at the time w...
Revelation 18:4
Then I heard another voice from heaven saying, ...
-
Cross References
Isaiah 52:11
Depart, depart, go out from there; touch no unclean thing; go out from the midst of her; purify yourselves, you who bear the vessels of the Lord.
-
Cross References
Exodus 4:22
Then you shall say to Pharaoh, 'Thus says the L...
2 Samuel 7:8
Now, therefore, thus you shall say to my servan...
2 Samuel 7:14
I will be to him a father, and he shall be to m...
Isaiah 43:6
I will say to the north, Give up, and to the so...
Jeremiah 31:9
With weeping they shall come, and with pleas fo...
Hosea 1:10
Yet the number of the children of Israel shall ...
Revelation 21:7
The one who conquers will have this heritage, a...
-
Cross References
1 Peter 2:11
Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul.
1 John 3:3
And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 6:12 - 13
You are not restricted by us, but you are restricted in your own affections.
-
Cross References
Acts 20:33
I coveted no one's silver or gold or apparel.
2 Corinthians 11:20
For you bear it if someone makes slaves of you, or devours you, or takes advantage of you, or puts on airs, or strikes you in the face.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 6:11 - 13
We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians; our heart is wide open.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 3:12
Since we have such a hope, we are very bold.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 1:12
For our boast is this, the testimony of our conscience, that we behaved in the world with simplicity and godly sincerity, not by earthly wisdom but by the grace of God, and supremely so toward you.
2 Corinthians 8:24
So give proof before the churches of your love and of our boasting about you to these men.
2 Corinthians 9:2
For I know your readiness, of which I boast about you to the people of Macedonia, saying that Achaia has been ready since last year. And your zeal has stirred up most of them.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 1:4
Who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
Philippians 2:17
Even if I am to be poured out as a drink offering upon the sacrificial offering of your faith, I am glad and rejoice with you all.
Colossians 1:24
Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake, and in my flesh I am filling up what is lacking in Christ's afflictions for the sake of his body, that is, the church.
2 Corinthians 6:10
As sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, yet possessing everything.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 2:13
My spirit was not at rest because I did not find my brother Titus there. So I took leave of them and went on to Macedonia.
-
Cross References
Deuteronomy 32:25
Outdoors the sword shall bereave, and indoors terror, for young man and woman alike, the nursing child with the man of gray hairs.
Lamentations 1:20
Look, O Lord, for I am in distress; my stomach churns; my heart is wrung within me, because I have been very rebellious. In the street the sword bereaves; in the house it is like death.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 1:4
Who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 7:13
Therefore we are comforted. And besides our own comfort, we rejoiced still more at the joy of Titus, because his spirit has been refreshed by you all.
1 Thessalonians 3:6 - 7
But now that Timothy has come to us from you, and has brought us the good news of your faith and love and reported that you always remember us kindly and long to see us, as we long to see you -
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 2:2
For if I cause you pain, who is there to make me glad but the one whom I have pained?
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 2:4
For I wrote to you out of much affliction and anguish of heart and with many tears, not to cause you pain but to let you know the abundant love that I have for you.
-
Cross References
Psalms 38:18
I confess my iniquity; I am sorry for my sin.
1 Corinthians 5:2
And you are arrogant! Ought you not rather to mourn? Let him who has done this be removed from among you.
-
Cross References
2 Samuel 12:13
David said to Nathan, "I have sinned against the Lord." And Nathan said to David, "The Lord also has put away your sin; you shall not die.
Acts 11:18
When they heard these things they fell silent. And they glorified God, saying, "Then to the Gentiles also God has granted repentance that leads to life.
-
Cross References
Proverbs 17:22
A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 2:6
For such a one, this punishment by the majority is enough.
-
Cross References
1 Corinthians 5:1 - 2
It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and of a kind that is not tolerated even among pagans, for a man has his father's wife.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 7:6
But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus.
-
Cross References
Romans 15:32
So that by God's will I may come to you with joy and be refreshed in your company.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 8:24
So give proof before the churches of your love and of our boasting about you to these men.
2 Corinthians 9:2
For I know your readiness, of which I boast about you to the people of Macedonia, saying that Achaia has been ready since last year. And your zeal has stirred up most of them.
2 Corinthians 10:8
For even if I boast a little too much of our authority, which the Lord gave for building you up and not for destroying you, I will not be ashamed.
2 Thessalonians 1:4
Therefore we ourselves boast about you in the churches of God for your steadfastness and faith in all your persecutions and in the afflictions that you are enduring.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 4:2
But we have renounced disgraceful, underhanded ways. We refuse to practice cunning or to tamper with God's word, but by the open statement of the truth we would commend ourselves to everyone's conscience in the sight of God.
2 Corinthians 6:7
By truthful speech, and the power of God; with the weapons of righteousness for the right hand and for the left.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 2:9
For this is why I wrote, that I might test you and know whether you are obedient in everything.
2 Corinthians 10:6
Being ready to punish every disobedience, when your obedience is complete.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 2:3
And I wrote as I did, so that when I came I might not suffer pain from those who should have made me rejoice, for I felt sure of all of you, that my joy would be the joy of you all.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 8:5
And this, not as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us.
-
Cross References
Mark 12:44
For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 8:11
So now finish doing it as well, so that your readiness in desiring it may be matched by your completing it out of what you have.
1 Corinthians 16:2
On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 9:2
For I know your readiness, of which I boast about you to the people of Macedonia, saying that Achaia has been ready since last year. And your zeal has stirred up most of them.
Romans 15:25 - 26
At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem bringing aid to the saints.
Acts 24:17
Now after several years I came to bring alms to my nation and to present offerings.
-
Cross References
Romans 15:31
That I may be delivered from the unbelievers in Judea, and that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 8:1
We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 8:17
For he not only accepted our appeal, but being himself very earnest he is going to you of his own accord.
2 Corinthians 12:18
I urged Titus to go, and sent the brother with him. Did Titus take advantage of you? Did we not act in the same spirit? Did we not take the same steps?
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 8:19
And not only that, but he has been appointed by the churches to travel with us as we carry out this act of grace that is being ministered by us, for the glory of the Lord himself and to show our good will.
2 Corinthians 8:4
Begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saints -
-
Cross References
1 Corinthians 1:5
That in every way you were enriched in him in all speech and all knowledge -
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 9:8
And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.
-
Cross References
1 Corinthians 7:6
Now as a concession, not a command, I say this.
-
Cross References
Philippians 2:6 - 7
Who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped.
2 Corinthians 6:10
As sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, yet possessing everything.
Matthew 20:28
Even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.
-
Cross References
1 Corinthians 7:25
Now concerning the betrothed, I have no command from the Lord, but I give my judgment as one who by the Lord's mercy is trustworthy.
-
Cross References
Deuteronomy 15:7 - 8
If among you, one of your brothers should become poor, in any of your towns within your land that the Lord your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart or shut your hand against your poor brother.
Proverbs 19:17
Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.
Proverbs 28:27
Whoever gives to the poor will not want, but he who hides his eyes will get many a curse.
1 Timothy 6:18 - 19
They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share.
Hebrews 13:16
Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 9:2
For I know your readiness, of which I boast about you to the people of Macedonia, saying that Achaia has been ready since last year. And your zeal has stirred up most of them.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 9:7
Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
Mark 12:43 - 44
And he called his disciples to him and said to them, "Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box.
Luke 21:3
And he said, "Truly, I tell you, this poor widow has put in more than all of them.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 9:12
For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God.
Acts 4:34
There was not a needy person among them, for as many as were owners of lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold
-
Cross References
Exodus 16:18
But when they measured it with an omer, whoever gathered much had nothing left over, and whoever gathered little had no lack. Each of them gathered as much as he could eat.
-
Cross References
Exodus 16:18
But when they measured it with an omer, whoever gathered much had nothing left over, and whoever gathered little had no lack. Each of them gathered as much as he could eat.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 2:14
But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere.
-
Cross References
Revelation 17:17
For God has put it into their hearts to carry out his purpose by being of one mind and handing over their royal power to the beast, until the words of God are fulfilled.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 8:6
Accordingly, we urged Titus that as he had started, so he should complete among you this act of grace.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 12:18
I urged Titus to go, and sent the brother with him. Did Titus take advantage of you? Did we not act in the same spirit? Did we not take the same steps?
-
Cross References
1 Corinthians 7:17
Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. This is my rule in all the churches.
-
Cross References
1 Corinthians 16:3 - 4
And when I arrive, I will send those whom you accredit by letter to carry your gift to Jerusalem.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 8:6
Accordingly, we urged Titus that as he had started, so he should complete among you this act of grace.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 4:15
For it is all for your sake, so that as grace extends to more and more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God.
-
Cross References
Romans 12:17
Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all.
-
Cross References
Romans 14:18
Whoever thus serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men.
Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
1 Peter 2:12
Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.
-
Cross References
Philemon 1:17
So if you consider me your partner, receive him as you would receive me.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 7:4
I am acting with great boldness toward you; I have great pride in you; I am filled with comfort. In all our affliction, I am overflowing with joy.
2 Corinthians 7:14
For whatever boasts I made to him about you, I was not put to shame. But just as everything we said to you was true, so also our boasting before Titus has proved true.
2 Corinthians 9:2 - 3
For I know your readiness, of which I boast about you to the people of Macedonia, saying that Achaia has been ready since last year. And your zeal has stirred up most of them.
-
Cross References
1 Thessalonians 4:9
Now concerning brotherly love you have no need for anyone to write to you, for you yourselves have been taught by God to love one another.
-
Cross References
Romans 15:25
At present, however, I am going to Jerusalem bringing aid to the saints.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 8:24
So give proof before the churches of your love and of our boasting about you to these men.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 8:10
And in this matter I give my judgment: this benefits you, who a year ago started not only to do this work but also to desire to do it.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 8:6
Accordingly, we urged Titus that as he had started, so he should complete among you this act of grace.
2 Corinthians 8:17 - 18
For he not only accepted our appeal, but being himself very earnest he is going to you of his own accord.
2 Corinthians 8:22
And with them we are sending our brother whom we have often tested and found earnest in many matters, but who is now more earnest than ever because of his great confidence in you.
-
Cross References
1 Corinthians 16:2
On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come.
-
Cross References
Acts 20:4
Sopater the Berean, son of Pyrrhus, accompanied him; and of the Thessalonians, Aristarchus and Secundus; and Gaius of Derbe, and Timothy; and the Asians, Tychicus and Trophimus.
-
Cross References
Genesis 33:11
Please accept my blessing that is brought to you, because God has dealt graciously with me, and because I have enough." Thus he urged him, and he took it.
Judges 1:15
She said to him, "Give me a blessing. Since you have set me in the land of the Negeb, give me also springs of water." And Caleb gave her the upper springs and the lower springs.
1 Samuel 25:27
And now let this present that your servant has brought to my lord be given to the young men who follow my lord.
-
Cross References
Philippians 4:17
Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 12:17 - 18
Did I take advantage of you through any of those whom I sent to you?
-
Cross References
Proverbs 11:24 - 25
One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; ano...
Proverbs 22:9
Whoever has a bountiful eye will be blessed, fo...
Galatians 6:7
Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for what...
Galatians 6:9
And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in...
Malachi 3:10
Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that ...
Luke 6:38
Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure...
-
Cross References
Deuteronomy 15:10
You shall give to him freely, and your heart shall not be grudging when you give to him, because for this the Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in all that you undertake.
2 Corinthians 8:12
For if the readiness is there, it is acceptable according to what a person has, not according to what he does not have.
-
Cross References
Exodus 25:2
Speak to the people of Israel, that they take for me a contribution. From every man whose heart moves him you shall receive the contribution for me.
-
Cross References
Philippians 4:19
And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus.
Ephesians 3:2
Assuming that you have heard of the stewardship of God's grace that was given to me for you.
-
Cross References
Psalms 112:9
He has distributed freely; he has given to the poor; his righteousness endures forever; his horn is exalted in honor.
-
Cross References
Psalms 112:9
He has distributed freely; he has given to the poor; his righteousness endures forever; his horn is exalted in honor.
-
Cross References
Isaiah 55:10
For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater.
-
Cross References
Hosea 10:12
Sow for yourselves righteousness; reap steadfast love; break up your fallow ground, for it is the time to seek the Lord, that he may come and rain righteousness upon you.
-
Cross References
1 Corinthians 1:5
That in every way you were enriched in him in all speech and all knowledge -
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 1:11
You also must help us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many.
-
Cross References
2 Corinthians 8:14
Your abundance at the present time should supply their need, so that their abundance may supply your need, that there may be fairness.
-
Cross References
Matthew 5:16
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
1 Peter 2:12
Keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day of visitation.
-
Cross References
1 Timothy 6:12 - 13
Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
Hebrews 3:1
Therefore, holy brothers, you who share in a heavenly calling, consider Jesus, the apostle and high priest of our confession.
Hebrews 4:14
Since then we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast our confession.
Hebrews 10:23
Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful.
-
Cross References
John 3:16
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
Ephesians 2:8
For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God.
2 Corinthians 2:14
But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere.
English Standard Version (ESV) The Holy Bible, English Standard Version Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a division of Good News Publishers.