Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary 2 Corinthians 13:8

"For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth." — 2 Corinthians 13:8 (ASV)

This verse, which reads like a proverb, bears one of two meanings in this context. (1) Paul’s concern was that truth, especially the truth of the Gospel (cf. 4:2; 6:7), should prevail at all costs—even if it were to involve his exposure as a false apostle and counterfeit Christian (vv.6–7). (2) Paul did not need to exercise his apostolic authority where “truth” already existed, but was able and willing, if necessary, to act decisively to establish “truth,” i.e., to restore the Corinthians to wholeness (v.9b).