2 Corinthians 1:12-14 (WEL) For our rejoicing is in this—the witness of our conscience—because we’ve lived in this world and especially towards you with openness and godly sincerity, not with human wisdom, but by the grace of God. 13 We are not writing anything else to you other than what you can read and understand. I expect you will understand even to the end. 14 Just as some of you have understood us because we are your reason to rejoice, even as you are ours on the Day of the Lord Jesus.
V12 For our rejoicing is in this—the witness of our conscience—because we’ve lived in this world and especially towards you with openness and godly sincerity, not with human wisdom, but by the grace of God.
Paul lists two character traits that all Christians must live by: 1) openness and 2) godly sincerity. We are to subject human wisdom (our own included) to a low priority with God’s wisdom as the priority.
Openness is the Greek word G572 ἁπλότης haplótēs, which means (Word Study Dictionary) “single, not having an ulterior or double motive…In the NT used only in a moral sense as the opposite of duplicity meaning sincerity, faithfulness toward others, manifest in helpfulness and giving assistance to others.” Paul and his evangelistic team wanted to live their lives truthfully, honestly, and without any deception.
Sincerity is the Greek word G1505 εἰλικρίνεια eilikrineia, which means (Theological Dictionary of the New Testament (Abridged – Little Kittel)) these words mean ‘tested by sunlight,’ i.e., ‘pure,’ and ‘purity.
It is not only sincerity but godly sincerity; it is the sincerity that God has.
Let us live our lives this way.
The difference between godly wisdom (James 3:17-18) and ungodly wisdom (James 3:14-16).
V13 We are not writing anything else to you other than what you can read and understand. I expect you will understand even to the end.
This is the clarity or perspicuity of Scripture.
AskAndy AI:
“The perspicuity of Scripture refers to the clarity and understandability of the Bible’s message. This doctrine teaches that God has revealed His Word in such a way that its basic message is clear and accessible to all who read it with diligence and a willingness to understand. The Bible is not written in a way that only an elite group of scholars or those with special spiritual gifts can comprehend. Instead, it is simple enough for any literate person to grasp the essential truths necessary for salvation and godly living. While some parts of Scripture may be more difficult or complex, the core message—especially regarding salvation through Jesus Christ—is clear and straightforward. This clarity is intentional because God desires that people come to know Him and be saved without confusion or unnecessary barriers. The perspicuity of Scripture assures believers that they can trust the Bible as a reliable and understandable guide for faith and practice. In summary, the perspicuity of Scripture means:
• The Bible’s essential teachings are clear and understandable.
• No special talents or spiritual gifts are required to grasp the fundamental truths.
• Difficult passages exist but do not obscure the clear message of salvation and godliness.
• God’s Word is meant to be accessible to all who seek to understand it sincerely.
“Relevant Bible verses include:
• Psalm 119:105 — “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.”
• 2 Timothy 3:16-17 — “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.”
• James 1:5 — “But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”
V14 Just as some of you have understood us because we are your reason to rejoice, even as you are ours on the Day of the Lord Jesus.
Paul and his team are the reason because they preached the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Faith in Jesus alone brings salvation and all its benefits promised by God.
When the phrase “Day of the Lord” is used, it refers to a special intervention of God upon the world and especially upon sinful humanity.
The Day of the Lord Jesus refers to the Rapture, a time of joy and rejoicing. There is also the Bema Seat judgment for rewards for faithfulness and service. Defender’s Study Bible adds: “The “judgment seat” (Greek bema) is not the “great white throne” (Rev 20:11) where unbelievers are to be judged by their works and then sent into hell, but a judgment for rewards, or loss of rewards, to believers. See also Romans 14:10-12, 1 Corinthians 3:11-15, and Revelation 22:12).”
We learn:
• Some godly principles of Christian life.
• Salvation brings rejoicing.
Questions:
• Is your life lived in openness and sincerity?
• Are you rejoicing in your salvation?