Commentary on 2 Corinthians 6:15
In 2 Corinthians 6:15, the Apostle Paul writes:
"And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel?"
This verse is fundamental to understanding the nature of the Christian's relationship with the world, the Church, and the divine. Below, we provide a summary of collective insights from respected public domain commentators including Matthew Henry, Albert Barnes, and Adam Clarke.
Contextual Overview
Paul's epistle aims to reconcile the Corinthian church with his apostolic authority and to press upon them the need for holiness and separation from the corrupting influences of the world. In chapter six, he addresses the theme of the believer's call to holiness and the implications inherent in their union with Christ.
Analysis of Key Phrases
"What concord hath Christ with Belial?"
Matthew Henry interprets Belial as a term representing wickedness or the devil. This rhetorical question emphasizes the stark contrast between the righteousness of Christ and the lawlessness represented by Belial. Paul is urging the church to reflect on the incompatibility of their Christian faith with pagan practices.
Albert Barnes elaborates that 'Belial' symbolizes everything vile, suggesting that no true harmony can exist between Christ and Satan. This question calls believers to discern the spiritual implications of their associations.
"What part hath he that believeth with an infidel?"
Adam Clarke points out that "infidel" refers to an unbeliever or someone who has rejected the truths of Christianity. Clarke argues that this separation indicates that true believers must not be unequally yoked with non-believers, fostering a lifestyle that is distinct and separate from worldly influences.
Matthew Henry similarly appraises this separation as crucial, stressing the need for believers to recognize their identity in Christ and to maintain spiritual purity by avoiding relationships or partnerships that compromise their faith.
Theological Insights
Implications for Church and Society
The implications of 2 Corinthians 6:15 extend into various aspects of church life and individual conduct:
- Righteousness and Sinfulness: The juxtaposition of Christ with Belial underscores the fundamental incompatibility of righteousness with sin. This serves as a reminder to believers of their higher calling.
- Spiritual Integrity: The verse calls for maintaining a lifestyle reflective of one's faith in Christ, abstaining from practices and relationships contrary to his teachings.
- Witness to the World: By exhorting believers to live distinctly, Paul emphasizes the necessity of showcasing the transformative power of faith, thereby serving as a witness to a fallen world.
Calls to Holiness
Both Barnes and Henry elucidate that holiness is essential in the life of a Christian. The verse not only reaffirms the separation from the world but also invites believers to cultivate a deeper communion with Christ, which enriches their personal faith and collective witness.
Practical Applications
Given the richness of this scripture, several practical applications arise for pastors, students, and scholars:
- Examine Relationships: Evaluate personal and community relationships against the standards of faith. Strive for partnerships that foster spiritual growth.
- Teaching the Doctrine of Separation: Leaders should teach the biblical doctrine of separation in a manner that encourages believers to be in the world but not of it.
- Encouragement in Struggles: Recognize the struggles of Christians in secular contexts and provide support and encouragement through biblical teachings on maintaining faith amidst challenges.
Conclusion
In summary, 2 Corinthians 6:15 offers profound insights into the believer's relationship with their faith and the broader world. The teachings of Paul, as analyzed through the lenses of notable commentators, stress the importance of maintaining spiritual integrity and the need for discernment in our associations. As pastors and theologians reflect on this scripture, they are called to guide their communities in understanding the implications of their faith in Christ as distinct from the powers of darkness.
