The word this refers to what Paul has written in the preceding verse. Paul’s denials in verse 2 were not stated in order to criticize the Corinthians (or his opponents in Corinth). He simply states the facts without accusing them of wrongdoing. In some languages it may be more natural to recast the sentence to say “When I speak in this manner, I am not condemning you….” The word condemn is translated in Revised Standard Version as a verb, but Greek has the same noun found in 3.9. Coupled with the verb “to say,” the idea in this context is that of passing negative judgment on someone. Other languages may say something like “criticize,” “denounce,” or “accuse of wrong.”

For: this transition word introduces Paul’s explanation why the Corinthian readers should not take his words as a condemnation.

I said before: probably referring to statements earlier in this letter (see 1.4-7; 3.2; 4.10 and following; 5.14; 6.9, 11-12), but possibly referring to a previous visit to Corinth or to an earlier letter. This may be rendered “I have already said,” but in some languages the verb form itself will make it unnecessary to add an adverb like “before” or “already.”

You are in our hearts: the expression in our hearts is used in 1.22 and 4.6, but the context is different in those cases. Here Paul indicates that the Corinthians are in his heart (and the hearts of his associates). This is an indication of deep affection and may be better not translated literally in a number of languages. Both Translator’s New Testament and Good News Translation render it “you are so dear to us.” In other languages one may wish to say “we love you so very much” or something similar.

To die together and to live together: many scholars interpret this expression as a well-known formula used to indicate lasting friendship. And this sense seems to fit the context here. Combined with the preceding affirmation, the meaning seems to be that “we love you and will keep on loving you no matter what happens.” One translation says “we will not be separated whether we live or die.”

Quoted with permission from Omanson, Roger L. and Ellingworth, Paul. A Handbook on Paul’s Second Letter to the Corinthians. (UBS Handbook Series). New York: UBS, 1993. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .