2 Corinthians 13:5-6 KJV
[5] Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?
[6] But I trust that ye shall know that we are not reprobates.
This does not say "Examine yourself," but “Examine yourselves." It is plural.
This could mean that each person at the church must examine only themselves. On the other hand, God could be commanding each person to examine all the others, as well. The latter would make sense, because others tend to be more objective.
However, we must look to the context, and/or other verses, to determine the meaning. The context indicates each one must examine not just themselves, but others too. How would they know that Paul, etc. were not reprobates, unless they examined them? Also, other verses do command you to examine others, not just yourself. For example,
Galatians 6:1-2 KJV
[1] Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.
[2] Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.
There are other similar verses.
In spite of this, many preachers scorn the practice of examining others, calling those who do this “fruit inspectors.” Not examining others is one main reason churches are filled with unsaved people, who swear they are saved.
Christians must be willing to give and receive others' examinations of them. It is one of the ways God has given them to become more holy.
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