Paul closes his letter with a call to grow, comfort one another, agree, and live in peace.
“Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.”2 Corinthians 13:11 (KJV)
What does “Of one mind” mean in 2 Corinthians 13:11?
In his farewell, Paul gives a short list of exhortations. The promise that follows is that the God of love and peace will be with those who live this way.
Going deeper
Paul writes, Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you. Perfect here means mature, complete, being restored and put in order. The list describes a healthy community: growing up, encouraging one another, sharing a common purpose, and living peacefully. The promise is that God will be present in such a group in a special way.
Being of one mind does not require agreeing on everything. It means sharing a commitment to Christ and to each other, and working through differences with love. Think about the communities you belong to, your family, your church, your workplace. What would help them be more at peace? Perhaps you could offer an apology, encourage someone, or seek a point of agreement. Choose one step this week, and trust the God of love and peace to be with you.
Reflect
What step could you take this week to help your family or church live in greater peace?
Pray
God of love and peace, be with us. Help us to grow, to comfort one another, to be of one mind, and to live in peace. In Jesus' name, amen.
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