NT Text: 2 Corinthians 6:17
OT Source(s):
Source: John Gill, Exposition of the Entire Bible (1763)
Reference Type: Allusion
Connection Method(s): Promise-Fulfillment + Longitudinal Theme
Significance: Paul's composite quotation in 2 Corinthians 6:17b — "and I will welcome you" (kagō eisdexomai hymas) — may echo Ezekiel 20:34, where God promises to gather Israel "out from the peoples and out of the countries" in a second exodus, receiving them with acceptance after separating them from the rebellious (20:38). The language of divine reception/welcoming does not appear in Isaiah 52:11 (the primary source for v. 17a), suggesting Paul draws from an additional OT text for the promise of welcome that follows separation. Ezekiel 20:33-44 describes God's eschatological gathering of Israel, passing them "under the rod" (v. 37) in a new-exodus judgment that separates the faithful from the unfaithful. Paul's application to the Corinthian church reflects the pattern: separation from uncleanness (v. 17a, from Isa 52:11) leads to divine welcome (v. 17b, echoing Ezek 20:34). This combination creates a two-movement theology: come out, and God will receive you.
NT Use Pattern: Assimilated — Tributary element of the 2 Corinthians 6:16-18 catena — Ezekiel's gathering-from-the-nations promise.