2 Corinthians 6:13 – “As a fair exchange—I speak as to my children—open wide your hearts also.”

Extended Explanation

In this verse, Paul continues his heartfelt appeal to the Corinthian believers. He has already told them that he and his fellow workers have opened their hearts completely to them (2 Corinthians 6:11) and that it is the Corinthians who have been holding back (2 Corinthians 6:12). Now, he calls them to respond with the same openness and love.

1. “As a fair exchange” – Paul is asking for something reasonable. He has poured out his love, time, and energy into the Corinthians, and now he simply asks them to respond with the same openness.
2. “I speak as to my children” – Paul is not angry or demanding. Instead, he speaks with the affection of a loving father. He sees the Corinthians as his spiritual children—people he deeply cares for and wants the best for.
3. “Open wide your hearts also” – Paul wants the Corinthians to stop holding back. He has given them everything—his heart, his teachings, his encouragement, and even his corrections—yet they remain distant. He is urging them to receive his love and teaching fully.

This verse is a call for love, trust, and restored relationship. Paul is saying, “I have loved you openly—now will you do the same for me?”

Historical Context

Paul’s relationship with the Corinthians had gone through difficulties:

• He founded the church in Corinth and had spent over a year teaching them (Acts 18:1-18).
• After leaving, problems arose—the church faced divisions, immorality, and false teachers.
• Some Corinthians questioned Paul’s authority and were influenced by other teachers who tried to discredit him.
• Paul had written strong corrections in his first letter (1 Corinthians) and was now pleading for reconciliation in this second letter.

Despite their faults and failures, Paul still loved them deeply. He did not abandon them or become bitter. Instead, he wanted to restore their relationship.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches several important spiritual lessons:

1. Christian relationships should be based on mutual love and openness – Paul had been transparent and loving; now he calls the Corinthians to do the same.
2. Spiritual leaders should care for their people like parents care for their children – Paul’s love was not based on control but on genuine concern for their well-being.
3. True love seeks reconciliation – Even when people have been distant or difficult, Christians should still pursue restored relationships.
4. Openness is essential for spiritual growth – If the Corinthians continued to resist Paul’s teaching and love, they would stunt their spiritual progress.

Paul is modeling how Christian love should work—full of truth, patience, and a desire for real connection.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s words in this verse are both emotional and persuasive:

• “As a fair exchange” – He is not demanding, but appealing to their sense of fairness.
• “I speak as to my children” – He softens his request by showing that this is a fatherly plea, not a command.
• “Open wide your hearts also” – This phrase echoes his earlier words in verse 11, reinforcing the theme of mutual love and trust.

Paul’s tone is gentle but firm—he is inviting them to respond with the same love that he has shown.

Biblical Cross-References

• 1 Corinthians 4:14-15 – “I am writing this not to shame you but to warn you as my dear children… for in Christ Jesus I became your father through the gospel.” (Paul’s fatherly love for the Corinthians.)
• Galatians 4:19 – “My dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you.” (Paul’s deep concern for the spiritual growth of his churches.)
• Proverbs 27:6 – “Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.” (Paul’s tough love was for their good.)
• Romans 12:10 – “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” (Christian relationships should be marked by mutual love and honor.)
• John 13:34-35 – “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” (Jesus’ command for believers to love as He loved.)

These verses confirm that Christian love is not one-sided—it should be mutual, open, and selfless.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse challenges believers to examine their relationships:

1. Are you withholding love from someone who has shown you love? – Paul had been open with the Corinthians, but they had held back.
2. Do you appreciate and trust the spiritual leaders God has placed in your life? – Many people resist godly correction, just as the Corinthians resisted Paul.
3. Are you willing to be open in your relationships, or are you guarding your heart too much? – Fear, pride, or past hurts can cause people to close themselves off.
4. Do you pursue reconciliation, even when relationships are difficult? – Paul could have walked away from the Corinthians, but he chose to fight for the relationship.

Paul’s words remind us that healthy Christian relationships require mutual love, trust, and openness.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Paul’s plea to the Corinthians mirrors how God loves us:

• God has never withheld His love from us – He has fully opened His heart, especially through Jesus.
• Many people resist His love – Just as the Corinthians resisted Paul, people often resist God’s love and correction.
• God invites people to respond – He constantly calls people to open their hearts to Him (Revelation 3:20).

Paul’s words reflect God’s desire for a relationship with His people—one that is built on love, trust, and openness.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus demonstrated the ultimate open-hearted love:

• He spoke openly and truthfully – Jesus never held back from preaching what people needed to hear (John 18:37).
• He loved even when people rejected Him – He continued loving and calling people, even when they turned away (Luke 19:41).
• He invites people to open their hearts to Him – Jesus longs for real relationship, not just religious duty (Matthew 11:28-30).

Paul’s love for the Corinthians reflects Christ’s love for His followers.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Are there relationships in your life where you have “withheld your heart” from someone who loves you?
2. Have you ever resisted a spiritual leader’s guidance, even though they genuinely cared for you?
3. How can you practice greater openness and love in your relationships?
4. Do you fully trust God’s love, or are there areas where you are still holding back?
5. How can you follow Jesus’ example of open-hearted love, even when people disappoint you?