Commentaries:
Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown
Examine—Greek, "Try (make trial of) yourselves."
prove your own selves—This should be your first aim, rather than "seeking a proof of Christ speaking in me" (II Corinthians 13:3).
your own selves—I need not speak much in proof of Christ being in me, your minister (II Corinthians 13:3), for if ye try your own selves ye will see that Christ is also in you [CHRYSOSTOM], (Romans 8:10). Finding Christ dwelling in yourselves by faith, ye may well believe that He speaks in me, by whose ministry ye have received this faith [ESTIUS]. To doubt it would be the sin of Israel, who, after so many miracles and experimental proofs of God's presence, still cried (Exodus 17:7), "Is the Lord among us or not?" (Compare Mark 8:11).
except ye be reprobates—The Greek softens the expression, "somewhat reprobates," that is, not abiding the "proof" (alluding to the same word in the context); failing when tested. Image from metals (Jeremiah 6:30; Daniel 5:27; Romans 1:28).
Other Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown entries containing 2 Corinthians 13:5:
Acts 20:3
1 Corinthians 5:4
2 Corinthians 13:1
2 Corinthians 13:3
2 Corinthians 13:6
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