2 Corinthians 6:2
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Notice how Paul uses "behold" twice here, not just as an exclamation, but to grab our attention and emphasize that this isn't just a past promise; it's an immediate, present reality. God's offer of grace isn't a historical footnote; it's happening now, calling for our urgent response.
For he says, “In a favorable time I listened to you, and in a day of salvation I have helped you.” Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul is addressing the Corinthian believers, urging them to accept God's grace and reconciliation through him, as God's co-workers. This plea comes after a series of challenging interactions where Paul defended his apostolic authority and authenticity. The urgency of the present moment, as a unique opportunity for salvation, is highlighted by quoting Isaiah to emphasize that now is the time to respond to God's outstretched hand.
Do you ever feel like you're waiting for 'the right time' to get serious about faith or make a change? Paul reminds us that we're already in it.
Paul quotes Isaiah 49:8, where God speaks of hearing and helping his people. The incredible thing is how Paul immediately applies this ancient word to his present moment. He declares, 'Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.'
God's Definition of 'Now'
This isn't about wishful thinking; it's a bold proclamation of faith. God's 'favorable time' and 'day of salvation' aren't some distant future event but are actively present through Christ. It's the moment we are living in right now, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Responding to God's Invitation
This 'now' calls for an immediate, wholehearted response. It means not delaying our obedience, our repentance, or our trust in God. The urgency comes from understanding that this present moment is precisely when God is at work, offering His grace and help.
We often think of salvation as a one-time event. But what if God's 'day of salvation' is also an ongoing reality?
The phrase 'day of salvation' isn't just about the initial moment of conversion. While it certainly includes that profound turning point, it also speaks to God's continuous work in our lives.
Past, Present, and Future Salvation
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Paul's call to seize the 'day of salvation' reminds us to live fully in the reality of God's saving power today, embracing His help in overcoming sin's grip right now.
Understand the original words
sōtēria · Greek Noun
God's decisive act of deliverance from the penalty, power, and ultimately the presence of sin, accomplished through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Paul uses Isaiah's prophecy (referencing the time of exile and return) to declare that the presence and salvation of God are not distant hopes but an immediate reality in Christ, urging the Corinthians to seize this present opportunity.
c. 586 BC
Fall of Jerusalem and Babylonian Exile Begins
Jerusalem falls to the Babylonians, the Temple is destroyed, and many Judeans are deported. This marks a period of intense national crisis and divine silence for many.
539 BC
Cyrus the Great Conquers Babylon
The Persian Empire under Cyrus the Great overthrows the Babylonian Empire. This ushers in a new era and opens the door for Jewish return.
538 BC
Edict of Cyrus Allows Return
Cyrus issues a decree permitting exiled Jews to return to Judah and rebuild the Temple. This represents a moment of potential salvation and restoration.
c. 516 BC
Second Temple Completed
After delays and opposition, the Second Temple is completed in Jerusalem. While a significant achievement, it doesn't fully restore the glory of the first Temple.
c. 458-430 BC
Ezra and Nehemiah's Reforms
Ezra and Nehemiah lead further waves of returnees, focusing on religious and social reforms to re-establish Jewish identity and faithfulness.
c. 30 BC - AD 70
Second Temple Period
The era encompassing Jesus' ministry, the early church, and the destruction of the Second Temple. This period was marked by Roman occupation and Messianic expectation.
c. AD 55-57— this verse
Paul Writes Second Corinthians
The Apostle Paul writes his second letter to the church in Corinth. He is addressing ongoing issues and defending his ministry amidst opposition.
This Old Testament passage is directly quoted in 2 Corinthians 6:2, framing God's promise of help and salvation as an ongoing, present reality.
Hebrews 3:7-8This passage echoes the urgency of responding to God's call, warning against hardening one's heart and emphasizing the importance of seizing the 'day' of salvation.
Luke 4:16-21Jesus himself quotes from Isaiah (in a passage similar to Isaiah 49:8) and declares that the 'words of this Scripture are fulfilled in your hearing,' highlighting the arrival of a decisive moment of salvation through Him.
Romans 13:11-12This passage also speaks to the present moment as critical for salvation, urging believers to 'wake up' and 'throw off' their old ways because the 'hour has already come' for transformation.
Notice how Paul uses "behold" twice here, not just as an exclamation, but to grab our attention and emphasize that this isn't just a past promise; it's an immediate, present reality. God's offer of grace isn't a historical footnote; it's happening now, calling for our urgent response.
Paul is addressing the Corinthian believers, urging them to accept God's grace and reconciliation through him, as God's co-workers. This plea comes after a series of challenging interactions where Paul defended his apostolic authority and authenticity. The urgency of the present moment, as a unique opportunity for salvation, is highlighted by quoting Isaiah to emphasize that now is the time to respond to God's outstretched hand.
Paul is addressing the Corinthian believers, urging them to accept God's grace and reconciliation through him, as God's co-workers. This plea comes after a series of challenging interactions where Paul defended his apostolic authority and authenticity. The urgency of the present moment, as a unique opportunity for salvation, is highlighted by quoting Isaiah to emphasize that now is the time to respond to God's outstretched hand.
"For he says,
“In a favorable time I listened to you,
and in a day of salvation I have helped you.”
Behold, now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation." — Notice how Paul uses "behold" twice here, not just as an exclamation, but to grab our attention and emphasize that this isn't just a past promise; it's an immediate, present reality. God's offer of g…
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Last reviewed October 2026