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2 Corinthians 13 · a question people ask

"I write to those who have sinned before now and to all the rest" (13:2). Who are they?

In the text

The chapter doesn't name them. The chapter before uses the same words: "I would mourn for many of those who have sinned before now, and not repented" (12:21). Neither verse names anyone, and these notes don't. They say no more of "all the rest" than 13:2 does, and apply these verses to no one.

The verses

“I have warned previously, and I warn again, as when I was present the second time, so now, being absent, I write to those who have sinned before now and to all the rest that if I come again, I will not spare,”
2 Corinthians 13:2 · World English Bible
“that again when I come my God would humble me before you, and I would mourn for many of those who have sinned before now, and not repented of the uncleanness, sexual immorality, and lustfulness which they committed.”
2 Corinthians 12:21 · World English Bible

From Favor's study of 2 Corinthians 13

2 Corinthians 13: He lives through the power of God

The letter's last chapter says, "For he was crucified through weakness, yet he lives through the power of God." (13:4), and then of we, "we will live with him through the power of God toward you" (13:4). And the whole letter ends in grace: "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, God’s love, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen." (13:14).

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Last reviewed October 8, 2026. Scripture quotations are from the World English Bible, which is in the public domain. Every answer cites the verses it rests on. What we believe · All Bible questions