Lesson 480: 2 Corinthians 13:4
2 Corinthians 13:4
The Blueprint — The Verse
For to be sure, he was crucified in weakness, yet he lives by God’s power. Likewise, we are weak in him, yet by God’s power we will live with him in our dealing with you.
Memorization Practice
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The Context — The History
Paul closed 2 Corinthians with warnings, appeals, and final greetings after defending his ministry throughout the letter. He prepared to visit them a third time with accountability.
The Narrative — The Lead-Up
Paul called for self-examination and rejoiced in weakness when Christ's power rested on him. He ended noting that Christ was crucified in weakness yet lives by God's power — the pattern for believers who share His weakness and life.
The Echo — Follow-on Verses
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2 Corinthians 13:3
3since you are demanding proof that Christ is speaking through me. He is not weak in dealing with you, but is powerful among you.
Read the verse immediately before this lesson (2 Corinthians 13:3) to hear the lead-in to the passage.
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2 Corinthians 13:5
5Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you—unless, of course, you fail the test?
Read the verse immediately after this lesson (2 Corinthians 13:5) to continue the passage.
Discussion
- How is God's power perfected in human weakness?
- Why does Paul highlight the cross's weakness alongside resurrection power?
- Where might weakness be an opening for Christ's strength?