13:31 Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which
to you-ward is not weak, but is a mighty in you.
(1) A most sharp reprehension, because, while they despise the
apostle's admonitions, they tempt Christ's own patience:
and also while they condemn him as wretched and miserable,
they lay nothing against him, which is not common to him
with Christ.
(a) And will be most mighty to be avenged upon you, when
need will be.
13:4 For though he was crucified through b weakness, yet he
liveth by the power of God. For we also are weak in him,
but we shall live with him by the power of God toward you.
(b) Regarding that base form of a servant which he took
upon him when he abased himself.
13:52 Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove
your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that
Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?
(2) He confirms that which he spoke about the power of God
appearing in his ministry, and he gathers by the mutual
relation between the people's faith and the minister's
preaching, that they must either reverence his apostleship,
upon whose doctrine their faith is grounded, or they must
condemn themselves of infidelity, and must confess
themselves not to be of Christ's body.
13:63 But I trust that ye shall know that we are not
reprobates.
(3) He appeases that sharpness, trusting that they will show
themselves towards their faithful apostle, able and willing
to be taught. And he also adds this, that he does not seek
his own fame and estimation, so that they may serve their
saviour, which is the only mark that he shoots at.
13:7 Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should
appear approved, but that ye should do that which is
honest, though we be as c reprobates.
(c) In men's judgment.
13:9 For we are glad, when we are weak, and ye are strong: and
this also we wish, [even] your d perfection.
(d) That all things may be in good order among you, and
the members of the church restored into their place,
which have been shaken and are out of place.
13:114 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.
(4) A brief exhortation, but yet such a one as comprehends all
the parts of a Christian man's life.
13:125 Greet one another with an holy kiss.
(5) He salutes them familiarly, and in conclusion wishes well
to them.
