The Corinthians wanted proof that Christ spoke through Paul. Paul turns the test around. Before they examine him, they should examine themselves, "whether ye be in the faith." His question presses them to recognize what should be true of every believer: Christ is in them.

Matthew Henry sees a quiet argument here: "if they could prove their own Christianity, this would be a proof of his apostleship," since they came to faith through his preaching. Barnes adds that Paul had reason to call for this because of the disorders in the church, which made it important for them to find out whether they had been deceived. Barnes also stresses that Christians "may know their true character," so the question expects an answer, not endless doubt.

No reply from Corinth is recorded. Paul answers the direction of his own question in the next lines: "But I trust that ye shall know that we are not reprobates" (2 Corinthians 13:6). Then he turns to prayer: "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 reprobates" (2 Corinthians 13:7). He wants them strong even if he looks weak: "this also we wish, even your perfection" (2 Corinthians 13:9).

Paul uses testing words drawn from everyday life. "Examine" is peirazo, to try or test. "Prove" is dokimazo, to test and so approve, a word Barnes says refers to "assaying or trying metals by the powerful action of heat." "Reprobates" is adokimos, the same root with a negative: not standing the test. Thayer's lexicon says it was used properly of metals and coins that failed to pass.

Barnes is careful to say that "reprobates" here does not mean people condemned forever. It describes religion "such as would not stand the test." Gill likewise compares it to "reprobate silver," counterfeit coin. Paul uses the same word of himself in 1 Corinthians 9:27, where the KJV has "castaway."

This question shows where Paul places the heart of the Christian life: "Jesus Christ is in you." Barnes calls this "the close union which subsists between the Redeemer and his people." Gill describes Christ dwelling in believers "by his Spirit and grace." The test is not first about rules kept or gifts displayed. It is whether Christ Himself lives in a person.

Paul's purpose is to build up, not tear down. He writes so that when he comes he will not "use sharpness," because the Lord gave him authority "to edification, and not to destruction" (2 Corinthians 13:10). Matthew Henry puts the stakes plainly: "either we are true Christians or we are great cheats." Yet Paul's tone is hopeful. He trusts they will know the truth about him (2 Corinthians 13:6), and he prays for their good (2 Corinthians 13:7).