Examine Your Faith in 2 Corinthians 13

As the Apostle Paul closes his second letter to the Corinthians, he leaves them with a final challenge. Faith is not something to be assumed but something to be tested. The Christian life requires self-examination, humility, and a constant dependence on God’s power. In this chapter, Paul reminds us that all strength comes from Christ, that truth cannot be compromised, and that our lives should build others up in love.

Testing Ourselves in the Faith

The Apostle Paul makes a bold call in 2 Corinthians 13:5: “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves.” This is not about doubting God but about testing the sincerity of our walk with Him. True faith is proven not just in words but in action, and the testing of our faith refines us to be more like Christ.

He reminds the Corinthians that power comes only from God, not from themselves (2 Corinthians 13:4). No matter how gifted or strong we think we are, we cannot serve the Lord apart from His strength. The truth of Christ is unchanging and cannot be bent to fit human preference (2 Corinthians 13:8). Our responsibility is to measure ourselves against His Word and allow His Spirit to shape our lives.

Building Up, Not Tearing Down

The Apostle Paul also stresses that the gifts God gives are meant to strengthen others. “This is why I write these things when I am absent, that when I come I may not have to be harsh in my use of authority — the authority the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down” (2 Corinthians 13:10). Authority and influence, whether spiritual or personal, should always reflect the heart of Christ.

In his final words, Paul calls the Corinthians to rejoice, strive for restoration, encourage one another, and live in peace (2 Corinthians 13:11–14). The standard is simple but profound: live in the mindset of Christ. Represent Him well in both love and truth, showing the world what it means to belong to Him.

Living a Tested Faith

2 Corinthians 13 calls us to examine our faith, depend on God’s strength, and live in a way that builds others up. It reminds us that truth cannot be bent, that gifts must be used with care, and that our lives should point people toward Jesus.

Reflection Prompt: How is God calling you to examine your faith today, and what steps can you take to use your gifts to build others up in Christ?

If you want to work through these questions and reflect on your journey, In His Voice, I Walk gives you space to process. Writing helps you see where God is testing and refining your faith, and how He is calling you to build up those around you.