2 Corinthians 7
In this chapter, Paul addresses the outcomes of his previous correspondence with the Corinthians, focusing on their emotional and spiritual responses. He discusses the concepts of godly sorrow and repentance, which lead to salvation and spiritual renewal. This chapter provides an intimate look at the relational dynamics between Paul and the Corinthian church, highlighting the positive changes that have occurred due to his direct and sometimes challenging communications.
2 Corinthians 7:1 (NKJV)
1 Therefore, having these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
Paul opens by urging the Corinthians to live up to the promises of divine relationship and protection mentioned in the previous chapter. He calls for a thorough purification of both external behaviors and internal motivations, aiming for a life characterized by complete holiness out of reverence for God.
2 Corinthians 7:2-3 (NKJV)
2 Open your hearts to us. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have cheated no one.
3 I do not say this to condemn; for I have said before that you are in our hearts, to die together and to live together.
Paul appeals for openness and mutual affection between himself and the Corinthians, defending the integrity of his actions and intentions towards them. He reassures them that his remarks are not meant to be condemnatory but are expressions of his deep commitment to their shared life in Christ, whether in trials or in joy.
2 Corinthians 7:4 (NKJV)
4 Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my boasting on your behalf. I am filled with comfort. I am exceedingly joyful in all our tribulation.
Here, Paul expresses his confidence and pride in the Corinthian believers, noting how their positive responses to his teachings have brought him great comfort and joy, even amidst personal sufferings. His relationship with them is a source of great satisfaction and encouragement.
2 Corinthians 7:5-7 (NKJV)
5 For indeed, when we came to Macedonia, our bodies had no rest, but we were troubled on every side. Outside were conflicts, inside were fears.
6 Nevertheless, God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus,
7 and not only by his coming but also by the consolation with which he was comforted in you, when he told us of your earnest desire, your mourning, your zeal for me; so that I rejoiced even more.
Paul describes the physical and emotional challenges he faced in Macedonia, which were alleviated by the arrival of Titus. Titus’s reports of the Corinthians' renewed affection and repentance brought Paul great joy and relief, demonstrating the supportive nature of their relationships within the body of Christ.
2 Corinthians 7:8-10 (NKJV)
8 For even if I made you sorry with my letter, I do not regret it, though I did regret it. For I see that the letter grieved you, though only for a while.
9 Now I rejoice, not that you were made sorry, but that your sorrow led to repentance. For you were made sorry in a godly manner, that you might suffer loss from us in nothing.
10 For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.
Paul reflects on the emotional impact of his previous letter, acknowledging that it caused them grief but led to beneficial repentance. He distinguishes between godly sorrow, which motivates a transformative change towards salvation, and worldly sorrow, which results in spiritual death. This outcome validates the tough love approach he sometimes takes in his guidance.
2 Corinthians 7:11 (NKJV)
11 For observe this very thing, that you sorrowed in a godly manner: What diligence it produced in you, what clearing of yourselves, what indignation, what fear, what vehement desire, what zeal, what vindication! In all things you proved yourselves to be clear in this matter.
Paul commends the Corinthians on the productive outcomes of their godly sorrow, which led to proactive measures to correct their errors and realign with Christian teachings. Their reactions encompass a range of positive spiritual emotions and actions that signify genuine repentance and a renewed commitment to integrity.
2 Corinthians 7:12-13 (NKJV)
12 Therefore, although I wrote to you, it was not for the sake of him who had done the wrong, nor for the sake of him who suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear to you.
13 Therefore we have been comforted in your comfort. And we rejoiced exceedingly more for the joy of Titus, because his spirit has been refreshed by you all.
Paul clarifies that his primary motive for writing was not to address individual wrongdoings per se but to demonstrate his deep pastoral concern for their spiritual well-being. The positive changes in the Corinthians also refreshed and comforted Titus, whose own upliftment brought even greater joy to Paul.
2 Corinthians 7:14-16 (NKJV)
14 For if in anything I have boasted to him about you, I am not ashamed; but as we spoke all things to you in truth, so our boasting before Titus was found to be true.
15 His affection toward you is abundantly increased as he remembers the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling you received him.
16 Therefore I rejoice that I have confidence in you in everything.
Paul concludes with a note of affirmation, expressing pride in how well the Corinthians lived up to the expectations he shared with Titus. The evident obedience and respect they showed to Titus have increased his affection for them and reinforced Paul's confidence in their spiritual growth and commitment. This overall positive report ends the chapter on a high note, celebrating the restored and strengthened relationships within the Christian community.