What does 2 Corinthians 13:11 mean?

This begins the conclusion of Paul's second letter to this group of believers. As he often does, Paul issues a series of rapid-fire instructions in a warm tone, followed by a final blessing.

Paul calls them brothers—in this context meaning brothers and sisters—including all the Corinthian believers in a declaration of his familial affection. He tells them to rejoice. They should recognize that, in Christ, they are well provided for in every moment forever. Their lives are worth celebrating.

He repeats again that they should aim or strive for restoration. This includes repentance from any ongoing sin and a return to full devotion to Christ. Paul and his friends are praying exactly that for the church in Corinth (2 Corinthians 13:9).

Paul also directs them to comfort each other, agree with each other, and to live in peace. Believers should accept responsibility for building each other up. Other New Testament passages emphasize the need for Christians to "put up with" each other in a spirit of love (Colossians 3:13). That godly form of tolerance keeps us moving past issues which keep us from being united in Christ. Division was a major problem for the church in Corinth (1 Corinthians 1:10–11; 2 Corinthians 12:21). Restoration included healing those rifts.

Finally, Paul reminds these believers that the God of love and peace will be with them. Whatever has gone on in Corinth, they are not alone. God has not abandoned them. They can still receive His love and peace for them and share it with each other.