Devine Scripture

2 Corinthians 13:9

What does 2 Corinthians 13:9 mean?

A plain-English look at 2 Corinthians 13:9 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What 2 Corinthians 13:9 means

Paul rejoices when he appears weak and the Corinthians are strong in faith and holiness. He prays for their “perfecting,” meaning their being made complete—brought to maturity in character, doctrine, and unity. This joy underscores that his ministry is not about self-importance but about their flourishing in Christ. If his weakness—restraint, patience, willingness to suffer—contributes to their strengthening, he is content. The true measure of ministry success is the people’s upbuilding, not the leader’s prominence. Paul’s constant prayer is that the church would be whole, stable, and fully equipped for faithful living.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

For we rejoice, when we are weak, and ye are strong: this we also pray for, even your perfecting.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

For we are glad, when we are weak, and ye are strong: and this also we wish, even your perfection.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

For we rejoice, when we are weak, and ye are strong: this we also pray for, even your perfecting.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

For we are glad when we are feeble and you are strong: and this is our prayer, even that you may be made complete.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

for we rejoice when we may be infirm, and ye may be powerful; and this also we pray for--your perfection!

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

For we rejoice that we are weak and you are strong. This also we pray for, your perfection.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

For we rejoice when we may be weak and ye may be powerful. But this also we pray for, your perfecting.

Context

Verse 8’s commitment to truth’s advance leads naturally to joy in the church’s strength. In verse 9, Paul makes explicit that their maturity is his prayer and delight. This heightens the reason for his written warnings: he wants growth without needing to exert severe measures. The next verse, 10, explains that purpose—writing now to avoid sharp action later—and locates his authority’s goal in edification, not demolition. The context stresses constructive intent.

v.8For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.

v.9This passage

v.10For this cause I write these things while absent, that I may not when present deal sharply, according to the authority which the Lord gave me for building up, and not for casting down.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • 1 Corinthians 4:10

    We are fools for Christ’s sake, but ye are wise in Christ; we are weak, but ye are strong; ye have glory, but we have dishonor.

  • Hebrews 13:21

    make you perfect in every good thing to do his will, working in us that which is well-pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be the glory for ever and ever. Amen.

  • Hebrews 6:1

    Wherefore leaving the doctrine of the first principles of Christ, let us press on unto perfection; not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,

  • 2 Corinthians 11:30

    If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things that concern my weakness.

  • 2 Corinthians 7:1

    Having therefore these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

  • 1 Peter 5:10

    And the God of all grace, who called you unto his eternal glory in Christ, after that ye have suffered a little while, shall himself perfect, establish, strengthen you.

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