Speaking as Children (2 Corinthians 6:11-13)

Today’s scripture: 2 Corinthians 6:11-13

I recently spent a few days with my family in Oregon, and I especially enjoyed seeing my four great-nephews. They range in age from nine months to nine years. It’s fun to see the baby’s reactions and the energy of the older three.

Sometimes when we read the Bible, and it deals with children, we often interpret it to mean we’re to talk in simpler terms. I think these verses mean something slightly different. I think it means we’re to be open with one another, speaking with affection and transparency, just as we do with children.

When I talk with my great-nephews, it’s true that I don’t use lofty words. I certainly speak in terms they easily understand. Even more, however, I use tones that clearly demonstrate my affection for them. My heart is “opened wide” when I interact with them.

This is how we should be with each other: open and affectionate. We should demonstrate our love through active listening and careful—and caring—words.

As one commentary puts it, “I speak to you with the utmost freedom and fluency because of my affection for you. It is expanded to take you and all your interests in; and to keep you in the most affectionate remembrance” (The Adam Clarke Commentary).