Paul closes 2 Corinthians by re-emphasizing essential elements addressed in his letters. He does this through five imperatives (2 Corinthians 13:11).
The first imperative, “Rejoice” (ESV), recalls earlier texts in the letters.
The second imperative, “Strive for full restoration” (NIV), translates a single word in Greek (katartizō), which appears here and in 1 Corinthians 1:10.
The third, “Encourage one another” (NIV), resumes 2 Corinthians 1:3–7. Paul begins and closes his second letter with encouragement. We receive God’s encouragement in order to encourage others (2 Corinthians 1:4, 6).
The fourth and fifth imperatives, “Be of one mind, live in peace” (2 Corinthians 13:11, NKJV), are a call to unity. This atmosphere of joy, restoration, encouragement, unity, and peace is the condition for the presence of God, “the God of love and peace” (2 Corinthians 13:11, ESV). It results from our triune God’s work in the human heart (2 Corinthians 13:14).
Grace, love, and fellowship result from the work of the triune God for us. These three Christian features promote an atmosphere characterized by God’s presence.
Thought question: A well-known Christian song is entitled “Amazing Grace.” What is amazing about the grace of Jesus?