Scripture#
2 Corinthians 6:11-13"O Corinthians! We have spoken openly to you,
our heart is wide open. You are not restricted by us,
but you are restricted by your own affections.
Now in return for the same (I speak as to childre),
you also be open."
2 Corinthians 6:14"Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers.
For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness?…"
Observation#
Context#
Paul has just finished a passionate section (vv. 1 - 10) describing the cost and authenticity of his ministry
- how he and his coworkers commend themselves as servants of God through endurance, purity, and love, even in suffering.
Now, in verses 11-13, Paul pauses the defense of his apostleship to speak from the heart. His tone turns deeply personal and emotional. These verses are a plea for mutual love and restored relationship between him and the Corinthian believers, whose affections toward him had grown cold due to false teachers and divisions.
Verse 11 - “Our heart is wide open”
- The rare exclamation “O Corinthians!” expresses deep emotion - a mix of affection, pain and longing.
- “We have spoken openly” (Greek anoigmene stoma) literally means “our mouth is opened to you,” i.e., Paul has spoken freely and sincerely, hiding nothing.
- “Our heart is wide open” signifies unreserved love and acceptance. Paul’s heart is enlarged toward them - now walls, no withholding.
Key Idea: Paul’s ministry is transparent; he’s not guarded or manipulative. His heart is fully open to the church.
Verse 12 - “You are restricted by your own affections”
Key Idea: The Corinthians’ lack of love isn’t caused by Paul’s actions but by their own hardened emotions misplaced loyalties.
Verse 13 - “You also be open”
- “In return for the same” = “As a fair exchange” or “In the same way.” Paul appeals tenderly, almost fatherly (“as to children”), asking them to reciprocate his openness.
- “Be open” (literally ‘be enlarged’) mirrors v. 11 - “enlarge your hearts also.” He’s calling them to lay down suspicion, pride and division - to love freely again.
Key Idea: Genuine Christian relationship requires mutual openness and affection, not guarded distance.
| Verse | Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| v. 11 | “Our heart is wide open” | Paul’s sincerity and unreserved love toward the Corinthians |
| v. 12 | “You are restricted by your own affections” | Their coldness and emotional narrowness have created distance |
| v. 13 | “You also be open” | A plea for mutual affection - reciprocate the love and openness Paul has shown |
Application#
- Authentic ministry involves emotional honesty - loving people even when they misunderstand you.
- Relational distance often isn’t caused by others’ actions but by your own closed hearts.
- Reciprocal openness - vulnerability met with vulnerability - is how the Body of Christ thrives.
Side Note: Last night (when I first read chapter 6, I read chapter 7 today) I went to Bible Study for the second time and was unexpectedly chosen to share and I shared my testimony. Fully vulnerable. And the brothers there were very appreciative. Thank you Jesus for giving me a humble heart and allowing the holy spirit to take over and be what I needed and what my fellow brethen needed.
Prayer#
Lord,
Teach me to love with an open heart, as Paul did. Where I’ve allowed bitterness, price, or fear to close me off, enlarge my heart again. Help me respond to others with sincerity and affection, showing the same grace You’ve shown me.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.