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2 Corinthians 13:14
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Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ - All the favor and beneficence that come from and through the Redeemer of the world; as the Lord, the ruler and governor of all things; as Jesus, the Savior of all men by his passion and death; as Christ, the distributer of all that Divine unction which enlightens, comforts, harmonizes, and purifies the mind. May this most exalted, glorious, and all-sufficient Savior, be ever with you! And the love of God - God, your Maker, in that infinite love which induced him to create the world, and form man in his own image and in his own likeness, that he might be capable of knowing, loving, and enjoying him for ever; and God in the fullest manifestations of that love which caused him to give his only begotten Son, to the end that they who believe on him should not perish, but have everlasting life. May this God of love, and this love of God, be ever with you! And the communion of the Holy Ghost - May that Holy Spirit, that Divine and eternal energy which proceeds from the Father and the Son; that heavenly fire that gives light and life, that purifies and refines, sublimes and exalts, comforts and invigorates, make you all partakers with himself! Κοινωνια, which we translate fellowship and communion, signifies properly participation; having things in common; partaking with each other. This points out the astonishing privileges of true believers: they have communion with God's Spirit; share in all its gifts and graces; walk in its light; through him they have the fullest confidence that they are of God, that he is their father and friend, and has blotted out all their iniquities: this they know by the Spirit which he has given them. And is it possible that a man shall be a partaker with the Holy Ghost, and not know it! that he shall be full of light and love, and not know it! that he shall have the spirit of adoption, by which he can cry, Abba! Father! and yet know nothing of his relationship to God, but by inference from indirect proofs! In a word, that he shall have the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost with him, and all the while know nothing certain of the grace, as to his portion in it; feel nothing warming from the love, as to its part in him; and nothing energetic from the communion, as to his participation in the gifts and graces of this Divine energy! This is all as absurd as it is impossible. Every genuine Christian, who maintains a close walk with God, may have as full an evidence of his acceptance with God as he has of his own existence. And the doctrine that explains away this privilege, or softens it down to nothing, by making the most gracious and safe state consistent with innumerable doubts and fears and general uncertainty, is not of God. It is a spurious gospel, which, under the show of a voluntary humility, not only lowers, but almost annihilates, the standard of Christianity. This text, as well as that, Mat 3:16, Mat 3:17, and that other, Mat 28:19, strongly marks the doctrine of the holy Trinity. See the note on Mat 28:19. And had not the apostle been convinced that there was a personality in this ever-blessed and undivided Trinity, he could not have expressed himself thus. And had not our Lord intended to be understood in this way, he would not have given such a commission to his apostles, to baptize the nations in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. The doctrine is the teaching of God, let men make of it what they please. And the genuine Church of God have ever received and understood it in this way. Amen - This word is wanting, as usual, in almost every MS. of authority. Amen seems to have been anciently added at the conclusion of books, exactly as we add the word, finis, both merely signifying the end. As to the inscription, it is wanting, either in whole or in part, in almost all the ancient MSS. The principal forms in which it exists are the following: - To the Corinthians, the second. - The second to the Corinthians is completed. - The second to the Corinthians is finished. - To the Corinthians, the second, written from Philippi. - Written from Philippi by Titus. - Written from Philippi by Titus and Luke. - By Titus, Barnabas, and Luke. - The Second Epistle to the Corinthians was written from Philippi of Macedonia, and sent by Titus, Syriac. - The End of the Epistle. It was written from the city of Philippi by Titus and Luke. Praise be to God for ever, Arabic. - In the Vulgate there is no subscription; nor in the Ethiopic. - Written in Philippi of Macedonia, and sent by Titus and Luke, Coptic. - The Second Epistle to the Corinthians is ended; which was written from Philippi of Macedonia, by Titus and Luke, Syr. Philox. It has been often remarked that no dependence can be placed on many of the subscriptions to the sacred books, which are found in MSS. and versions, because those subscriptions were not written by the authors of those books, but were afterwards added by the transcribers or copiers, who followed either tradition or their own judgment. It is generally allowed that this second epistle was written from Macedonia; and probably from the city of Philippi, in that province. See the introduction and preface to this epistle. Finished the correction for a new edition, Dec. 13th, 1831. A. C.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The benediction which proves the doctrine of the Divine Trinity in unity. "The grace of Christ" comes first, for it is only by it we come to "the love of God" the Father (Joh 14:6). The variety in the order of Persons proves that "in this Trinity none is afore or after other" [Athanasian Creed]. communion--joint fellowship, or participation, in the same Holy Ghost, which joins in one catholic Church, His temple, both Jews and Gentiles. Whoever has "the fellowship of the Holy Ghost," has also "the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ," and "the love of God"; and vice versa. For the three are inseparable, as the three Persons of the Trinity itself [CHRYSOSTOM]. The doctrine of the Trinity was not revealed clearly and fully till Christ came, and the whole scheme of our redemption was manifested in Him, and we know the Holy Three in One more in their relations to us (as set forth summarily in this benediction), than in their mutual relations to one another (Deu 29:29). Amen--omitted in the oldest manuscripts. Probably added subsequently for the exigencies of public joint worship. Next: Galatians Introduction
Tyndale Open Study Notes
13:14 Paul closes his letter with a prayer and blessing. He invokes the three persons of the Trinity, with the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ (see 8:9) coming first. This is because we are always relying on Christ’s sacrificial love, which reconciles us to God the Father (5:18-21) and unites us through the fellowship of the Holy Spirit with all our fellow believers. • The love of God provides for our needs and graciously restores us to his family. • The fellowship of the Holy Spirit means our fellowship with the Spirit, who joins Christians together into a unity (Eph 4:3; Phil 2:1).
2 Corinthians 13:14
Benediction and Farewell
13All the saints send you greetings. 14The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with all of you.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(The Mission and Ministry of the Holy Spirit) the Communion of the Holy Spirit
By David Wilkerson29K51:34CommunionISA 64:4MAT 6:331CO 2:92CO 13:14In this sermon, the speaker uses a hypothetical scenario of having the President of the United States visit your house to illustrate the importance of sharing the gospel. The speaker emphasizes the need to share the message of salvation with others, just as one would eagerly share the news of a visit from the President. The sermon also highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in convicting people of sin and drawing them back to God. The speaker encourages listeners to respond to the Holy Spirit's prompting and seek deliverance from sin.
Dr. Baxter's Testimony
By J. Sidlow Baxter4.9K38:24TestimonyMAT 6:33JHN 2:82CO 13:14REV 3:20In this sermon, the speaker shares personal anecdotes and reflections on the impact of Jesus in his life. He recalls his mother's faith and the influence of evangelists in his town. The speaker expresses empathy for the audience, acknowledging the potential weariness of listening to many sermons. He emphasizes the importance of finding one's purpose in Jesus and encourages young men to consider a calling to the ministry. The sermon concludes with a reminder to seek God's guidance and stay in His will.
The Unrelenting Love of God
By David Wilkerson3.8K51:51JHN 12:471CO 13:42CO 13:112CO 13:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of giving oneself to others, just as God has given Himself to us. He highlights the example of the early church in Corinth, who not only gave material things but also gave themselves to one another. The preacher encourages the congregation to understand that God desires for them to give themselves to others in love. He concludes by referencing the benediction in 2 Corinthians 13:14, explaining that it is not just a closing prayer but a powerful summary of Paul's teachings on the unrelenting love of God.
Benediction for the Zion of God
By John Alexander Dowie2.7K01:06SanctificationDivine Preservation2CO 13:14PHP 1:61TH 5:22John Alexander Dowie emphasizes the importance of abstaining from all appearances of evil and calls for complete sanctification by God. He prays for the preservation of the whole spirit, soul, and body until the return of Jesus Christ, highlighting the need for faithfulness in ensuring all is well. Dowie invokes the grace of Jesus, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, asking for blessings and guidance for all believers.
Jehovah Witnesses - Part 2
By Walter Martin2.2K27:38Jehovah WitnessesACT 17:312CO 13:14HEB 1:5REV 1:8REV 22:7REV 22:12REV 22:20In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of the triple point of water, where water exists simultaneously as a solid, liquid, and gas. He uses this scientific phenomenon to illustrate the complexity and mystery of the Trinity in Christianity. The speaker emphasizes that while the Trinity may be difficult to fully comprehend, it is a fundamental belief in Christianity that there is one God who exists as three distinct persons: the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He also argues that rational proof is not always necessary for belief, using examples like sitting on atoms and the nature of light. The speaker encourages the audience to accept the existence of God as revealed in the Bible, even if it cannot be fully understood or explained rationally.
Babylonian Pattern - Part 1
By Winkie Pratney1.9K59:26GEN 1:26MAT 28:19JHN 10:302CO 13:14EPH 4:4This sermon delves into the concept of the Trinity, emphasizing the distinct personalities of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit within the Godhead. It explores the eternal nature of God and the unique roles each person of the Trinity plays. The discussion moves from theological terms to the practical implications of the Trinity in our lives, highlighting the importance of understanding God's triune nature and the unity within the Godhead.
Return Unto Thy Rest
By C.H. Spurgeon1.6K37:34PSA 116:72CO 13:14EPH 3:20REV 20:6In this sermon, the speaker encourages believers to return to their rest in God. He references Psalm 116, where the psalmist acknowledges that the Lord has delivered his soul from death, his eyes from tears, and his feet from falling. The speaker emphasizes that believers should not be satisfied with losing their spiritual rest and should strive to maintain their communion with Christ. He warns against being like a hen that continues to sit on eggs even when most of them have been taken away, highlighting the importance of not losing even a little bit of grace. The overall message is that believers should always seek to rest in Jesus and not be content with anything less.
Princess & Her Relationships, the (Part 1)
By Dora Esh1.4K1:51:31ModestyEXO 20:12PSA 68:5MAT 7:12MAT 11:28MAT 22:372CO 13:14EPH 6:1In this sermon, Brother Denny addresses the issue of submission and obedience in relationships. He emphasizes the importance of submitting to authority, even when we may not agree with it. He warns against the dangers of disregarding the guidance of parents and making choices based on personal desires. Brother Denny encourages young women to consider the impact of their actions on their reputation and the potential recommendations they may receive from parents when it comes to finding a suitable partner. He concludes by inviting questions and discussions on the topic.
Princess & Her Relationships, the (Part 2)
By Dora Esh1.3K1:51:31ModestyEXO 20:12PSA 68:5MAT 7:12MAT 11:28MAT 22:372CO 13:14EPH 6:1In this sermon, Brother Denny discusses the importance of submission in the family. He emphasizes that submission is not just obeying when we agree, but obeying regardless of how we feel. He encourages listeners to show respect and build up their family members, even when they may be taking advantage of them. Brother Denny also highlights the importance of playing games together as a way to build friendships and create a joyful atmosphere in the home.
His Name Is Called Jesus
By Erlo Stegen1.2K1:10:22Name Of JesusMAT 6:33LUK 2:21LUK 2:25JHN 1:29ACT 5:12CO 13:14HEB 13:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of staying faithful to God and following His word. He uses the story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fiery furnace as an example of how God can protect and deliver His people in difficult times. The preacher also warns against lying and deceit, using the story of Ananias and Sapphira as a cautionary tale. He encourages listeners to live a life of overflowing abundance in Christ and to experience the promised land here on earth. The sermon concludes with a reminder that if one has not experienced heaven on earth, they will not experience it in the afterlife.
The Communion of Saints
By Paris Reidhead1.2K39:27CommunionPSA 10:2MAL 3:16MAT 6:332CO 13:14In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the theme of the communion of saints, as mentioned in 2 Corinthians 13:14. He emphasizes that what one shares is a reflection of what one is, as it comes from the abundance of the heart. The preacher then discusses the communion of sinners, highlighting its nature, grounds, and ultimate end. He references Psalm 7 and Psalm 1 to illustrate the consequences of this communion, stating that the ungodly will perish and not stand approved in judgment. The sermon concludes with the idea that nature itself recognizes its own kind, just as believers should recognize and commune with fellow saints.
The Manifestation of the Holy Spirit ( 1 of 2 )
By Stephen Kaung1.0K1:22:351CO 12:71CO 12:122CO 4:22CO 13:14GAL 3:18GAL 5:22In this sermon, the speaker discusses how even though the disciples believed in Jesus, their understanding of his teachings was often limited. The speaker gives an example of when Jesus warned about the leaven of the Pharisees and the disciples misunderstood, thinking he was talking about bread. Jesus then reminded them of the miracle of feeding the five thousand to emphasize that bread was not the issue. The speaker emphasizes the importance of having a hearing heart and asks for God's word to fall on good ground and bear fruit. The sermon also mentions the previous conference themes of knowing God and knowing Christ, and highlights the importance of truth as the ultimate reality.
A Sure Leading
By Doc Greenway3801:14:02Christian LifeMAT 6:33ACT 13:2ACT 15:4ROM 8:8ROM 12:12CO 13:141PE 1:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of prayer in helping others understand the preaching of the word of God. The speaker shares that when they tried to explain the word of God, people couldn't fully comprehend it, but when they bombarded them with prayer, something amazing happened. The speaker also discusses the need for partnership with the Holy Spirit and the sense of deliverance and freedom that comes from it. They highlight the importance of obedience to the leading of the Spirit and the responsibility we have in keeping our vows to God.
The Communion of the Spirit
By Michael Koulianos3143:58Holy SpiritCommunion with the Holy SpiritIntimacy With GodPSA 51:11MRK 16:19JHN 14:17ACT 1:8ROM 5:51CO 6:172CO 13:14GAL 5:22EPH 4:301TH 5:19Michael Koulianos emphasizes the profound love and communion of the Holy Spirit, illustrating how our spirits unite with Him at salvation, creating an intimate relationship akin to marriage. He highlights the importance of fellowship with the Holy Spirit, which encompasses intimacy, partnership, friendship, presence, and command, urging believers to cultivate this relationship for spiritual growth and empowerment. Koulianos also reflects on the recent youth camp where many children accepted Christ, showcasing the active work of the Holy Spirit in their lives. He encourages the congregation to recognize the kingdom of God within them and to seek peace through the Holy Spirit rather than external circumstances. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of the Holy Spirit's role in their lives, emphasizing that true friendship with Him requires sensitivity and obedience.
The Spirit of Love
By Michael Koulianos2940:56Love and UnityHoly SpiritJHN 15:12CO 13:14GAL 5:22EPH 4:3JAS 4:5Michael Koulianos emphasizes the importance of the Holy Spirit in cultivating a deep, loving relationship with Jesus, likening it to the bond between a bride and bridegroom. He discusses the significance of abiding in Christ to bear the fruit of the Spirit, particularly love, and stresses that true discipleship is about quality over quantity in our spiritual lives. Koulianos encourages believers to trust in the Lord and immerse themselves in Scripture, which leads to spiritual growth and a deeper communion with the Holy Spirit. He warns against seeking validation through gifts rather than through a genuine relationship with God, highlighting that our value comes from the sacrifice of Jesus. Ultimately, the sermon calls for unity in the Spirit and living a life marked by peace and love.
The Magnificence of Jesus in the Trinity
By Mike Bickle251:03:47The TrinityThe Deity of ChristGEN 1:26PSA 110:1MAT 28:19JHN 1:1JHN 10:30JHN 14:10JHN 17:212CO 13:14EPH 2:6COL 2:9Mike Bickle emphasizes the magnificence of Jesus within the context of the Trinity, explaining that the doctrine of the Trinity is essential for understanding our faith and salvation. He highlights the importance of recognizing Jesus as fully God and fully man, and warns against the heresies that seek to undermine this truth. Bickle also discusses the historical significance of figures like Athanasius and Augustine in defending the Trinity, and encourages believers to engage deeply with this mystery to enhance their worship and relationship with God. Ultimately, he calls for a response of awe and love towards Jesus, who desires a personal relationship with each of us.
Fellowshipping With the Holy Spirit
By Mike Bickle2547:54Intimacy With GodFellowship with the Holy SpiritISA 30:21JHN 4:14JHN 7:38ROM 8:261CO 6:172CO 13:14GAL 5:16EPH 4:30PHP 2:11TH 5:19Mike Bickle emphasizes the significance of fellowshipping with the Holy Spirit, presenting Him as a dynamic person rather than merely a power source. He encourages believers to cultivate a personal relationship with the Holy Spirit through intentional conversation, which leads to a deeper experience of God's presence. Bickle highlights that our greatest destiny is to grow in intimacy with God through the Holy Spirit, who guides us into the fullness of the Trinity's love. He stresses that a vibrant walk with the Holy Spirit is essential for overcoming sinful desires and experiencing more of God. Ultimately, Bickle calls for believers to engage in regular, heartfelt communication with the Holy Spirit to enrich their spiritual lives.
Walking in the Spirit: Fellowship With the Holy Spirit
By Mike Bickle191:05:55Overcoming the FleshFellowship with the Holy SpiritJHN 7:38JHN 14:17ROM 7:24ROM 8:111CO 6:192CO 13:14GAL 5:16EPH 4:30PHP 4:6Mike Bickle emphasizes the importance of walking in the Spirit and fellowshipping with the Holy Spirit as a means to overcome the desires of the flesh. He explains that while we all struggle with various emotional and mental challenges, engaging in an ongoing dialogue with the Holy Spirit can help us resist these temptations and experience His power in our lives. Bickle encourages believers to actively communicate with the Holy Spirit, recognizing His presence within us, and to thank Him for His attributes, which can lead to transformation and renewal. He highlights that this practice is essential for maintaining freedom from the law of sin and death, and that it is through this relationship that we can partake in the divine nature and experience the fullness of God's grace and peace.
Fellowship of the Holy Spirit
By Erlo Stegen0Humility and HolinessFellowship with the Holy SpiritISA 6:22CO 13:14Erlo Stegen emphasizes the profound meaning of the 'fellowship of the Holy Spirit' as an intimate relationship with God, highlighting the Holy Spirit's role as the third Person of the Trinity. He warns against grieving the Holy Spirit, sharing his personal conviction of pride that hindered his ministry and the importance of recognizing the holiness of the Spirit. Stegen reflects on the consequences of rebellion against God, as seen in the Israelites, and encourages believers to seek God's strength and victory in temptation. The sermon serves as a reminder of the seriousness of our relationship with the Holy Spirit and the need for humility in our walk with God.
Less Than Trinitarian
By A.W. Tozer0TrinityThe Holy SpiritJHN 14:162CO 13:14A.W. Tozer emphasizes the critical importance of recognizing the Holy Spirit's role within the Trinity, arguing that many Christians neglect this doctrine, effectively denying the Spirit's place in the Godhead. He points out that while formal creeds may affirm the Trinity, the practical application of this belief is often absent in the lives of believers, leading to a diminished understanding of the Holy Spirit's power and presence. Tozer calls for a renewed awareness and acknowledgment of the Holy Spirit, urging Christians to worship and glorify Him as an essential part of their faith.
Of a Plurality on the Godhead; Or, a Trinity of Persons in the Unity of the Divine Essence.
By John Gill0Doctrine of the TrinityUnity of GodGEN 1:1GEN 1:26ISA 6:8MAT 28:19JHN 1:1JHN 14:232CO 13:14EPH 1:31JN 5:7REV 1:4John Gill expounds on the doctrine of the Trinity, asserting that the Godhead consists of three distinct persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—while maintaining the unity of the divine essence. He provides scriptural evidence for this plurality, citing various passages that use plural terms and expressions when referring to God, such as 'Elohim' and 'us' in creation. Gill emphasizes that the Trinity is not merely a theological concept but is essential to understanding God's nature and His works in creation, providence, and grace. He argues that the distinct roles of each person in the Godhead are evident in the acts of salvation and the worship practices of believers. Ultimately, Gill concludes that the Trinity is foundational to the Christian faith and the experience of salvation.
The Virgin Birth of Christ
By W.H. Griffith Thomas0GEN 3:15DEU 22:23ISA 7:14ISA 9:6MAT 1:20LUK 1:352CO 13:14GAL 4:41PE 1:19W.H. Griffith Thomas delves into the significance of the Virgin Birth in explaining the earthly origin and uniqueness of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes the importance of considering the Virgin Birth in light of the New Testament accounts in Matthew and Luke, highlighting the impact on the authenticity of the Gospels. The sermon explores the historical, theological, and philosophical reasons supporting the belief in the Virgin Birth, including the necessity to account for the uniqueness of Jesus' life and the Church's universal belief in this doctrine. Thomas also addresses the challenges posed by modern denials of the Virgin Birth and the implications of rejecting this foundational belief on the Person of Christ.
Suso and His Spiritual Daughter
By W.R. Inge0PSA 139:6PRO 8:22ISA 55:8JHN 1:1JHN 4:24ROM 11:332CO 13:14COL 2:91JN 4:8W.R. Inge delves into the deep questions about the nature of God, explaining the complexity of understanding God's essence and the concept of the Trinity. He describes God as an immortal, eternal, unchangeable, and incorporeal Spirit, whose essence is a source of joy and happiness. Inge explores the idea of God being everywhere and in all things, emphasizing the unity and simplicity of God's essence. He further discusses the Trinity as a divine outpouring of love and goodness within the Godhead, leading to the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit existing in perfect communion and equality.
The Personal Dispensation of the Holy Spirit
By Olin Alfred Curtis0MAT 12:31MAT 28:19JHN 4:24JHN 16:13ACT 13:2ROM 8:261CO 12:42CO 13:14Olin Alfred Curtis preaches about the profound experience of a heart transformed by God, singing a new song of redemption and forgiveness, reflecting on the deep love and gratitude for the salvation received. The sermon delves into the question of the personality of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the Holy Spirit as a distinct person in the Trinity based on biblical evidence from the teachings of Jesus, the early church, and the apostle Paul. Furthermore, the sermon explores the dispensation of the Holy Spirit, highlighting the quiet yet powerful work of the Spirit in transforming individuals, emphasizing the moral quality, gentleness, and inevitableness of the Spirit's test in every person's life.
Shepherd of the Churches
By Henry Bullinger0MRK 16:15ACT 16:14ROM 10:172CO 13:14EPH 4:3Henry Bullinger, a Swiss-born Reformer, played a significant role in the English Reformation, producing more Christian writings than Luther, Calvin, and Zwingli combined. His works were widely printed and influential, with English Puritans and Presbyterians leaning more on Bullinger than Calvin. Bullinger's emphasis on sound doctrine, acceptance of the New Testament Canon, and pioneering work on Revelation impacted the Reformation movement. He faced challenges with the Catabaptists, but his diplomatic approach and commitment to biblical principles guided his interactions.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ - All the favor and beneficence that come from and through the Redeemer of the world; as the Lord, the ruler and governor of all things; as Jesus, the Savior of all men by his passion and death; as Christ, the distributer of all that Divine unction which enlightens, comforts, harmonizes, and purifies the mind. May this most exalted, glorious, and all-sufficient Savior, be ever with you! And the love of God - God, your Maker, in that infinite love which induced him to create the world, and form man in his own image and in his own likeness, that he might be capable of knowing, loving, and enjoying him for ever; and God in the fullest manifestations of that love which caused him to give his only begotten Son, to the end that they who believe on him should not perish, but have everlasting life. May this God of love, and this love of God, be ever with you! And the communion of the Holy Ghost - May that Holy Spirit, that Divine and eternal energy which proceeds from the Father and the Son; that heavenly fire that gives light and life, that purifies and refines, sublimes and exalts, comforts and invigorates, make you all partakers with himself! Κοινωνια, which we translate fellowship and communion, signifies properly participation; having things in common; partaking with each other. This points out the astonishing privileges of true believers: they have communion with God's Spirit; share in all its gifts and graces; walk in its light; through him they have the fullest confidence that they are of God, that he is their father and friend, and has blotted out all their iniquities: this they know by the Spirit which he has given them. And is it possible that a man shall be a partaker with the Holy Ghost, and not know it! that he shall be full of light and love, and not know it! that he shall have the spirit of adoption, by which he can cry, Abba! Father! and yet know nothing of his relationship to God, but by inference from indirect proofs! In a word, that he shall have the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost with him, and all the while know nothing certain of the grace, as to his portion in it; feel nothing warming from the love, as to its part in him; and nothing energetic from the communion, as to his participation in the gifts and graces of this Divine energy! This is all as absurd as it is impossible. Every genuine Christian, who maintains a close walk with God, may have as full an evidence of his acceptance with God as he has of his own existence. And the doctrine that explains away this privilege, or softens it down to nothing, by making the most gracious and safe state consistent with innumerable doubts and fears and general uncertainty, is not of God. It is a spurious gospel, which, under the show of a voluntary humility, not only lowers, but almost annihilates, the standard of Christianity. This text, as well as that, Mat 3:16, Mat 3:17, and that other, Mat 28:19, strongly marks the doctrine of the holy Trinity. See the note on Mat 28:19. And had not the apostle been convinced that there was a personality in this ever-blessed and undivided Trinity, he could not have expressed himself thus. And had not our Lord intended to be understood in this way, he would not have given such a commission to his apostles, to baptize the nations in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. The doctrine is the teaching of God, let men make of it what they please. And the genuine Church of God have ever received and understood it in this way. Amen - This word is wanting, as usual, in almost every MS. of authority. Amen seems to have been anciently added at the conclusion of books, exactly as we add the word, finis, both merely signifying the end. As to the inscription, it is wanting, either in whole or in part, in almost all the ancient MSS. The principal forms in which it exists are the following: - To the Corinthians, the second. - The second to the Corinthians is completed. - The second to the Corinthians is finished. - To the Corinthians, the second, written from Philippi. - Written from Philippi by Titus. - Written from Philippi by Titus and Luke. - By Titus, Barnabas, and Luke. - The Second Epistle to the Corinthians was written from Philippi of Macedonia, and sent by Titus, Syriac. - The End of the Epistle. It was written from the city of Philippi by Titus and Luke. Praise be to God for ever, Arabic. - In the Vulgate there is no subscription; nor in the Ethiopic. - Written in Philippi of Macedonia, and sent by Titus and Luke, Coptic. - The Second Epistle to the Corinthians is ended; which was written from Philippi of Macedonia, by Titus and Luke, Syr. Philox. It has been often remarked that no dependence can be placed on many of the subscriptions to the sacred books, which are found in MSS. and versions, because those subscriptions were not written by the authors of those books, but were afterwards added by the transcribers or copiers, who followed either tradition or their own judgment. It is generally allowed that this second epistle was written from Macedonia; and probably from the city of Philippi, in that province. See the introduction and preface to this epistle. Finished the correction for a new edition, Dec. 13th, 1831. A. C.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
The benediction which proves the doctrine of the Divine Trinity in unity. "The grace of Christ" comes first, for it is only by it we come to "the love of God" the Father (Joh 14:6). The variety in the order of Persons proves that "in this Trinity none is afore or after other" [Athanasian Creed]. communion--joint fellowship, or participation, in the same Holy Ghost, which joins in one catholic Church, His temple, both Jews and Gentiles. Whoever has "the fellowship of the Holy Ghost," has also "the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ," and "the love of God"; and vice versa. For the three are inseparable, as the three Persons of the Trinity itself [CHRYSOSTOM]. The doctrine of the Trinity was not revealed clearly and fully till Christ came, and the whole scheme of our redemption was manifested in Him, and we know the Holy Three in One more in their relations to us (as set forth summarily in this benediction), than in their mutual relations to one another (Deu 29:29). Amen--omitted in the oldest manuscripts. Probably added subsequently for the exigencies of public joint worship. Next: Galatians Introduction
Tyndale Open Study Notes
13:14 Paul closes his letter with a prayer and blessing. He invokes the three persons of the Trinity, with the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ (see 8:9) coming first. This is because we are always relying on Christ’s sacrificial love, which reconciles us to God the Father (5:18-21) and unites us through the fellowship of the Holy Spirit with all our fellow believers. • The love of God provides for our needs and graciously restores us to his family. • The fellowship of the Holy Spirit means our fellowship with the Spirit, who joins Christians together into a unity (Eph 4:3; Phil 2:1).