II Corinthians 7 Commentary
Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man.
I speak not this to condemn you: for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts to die and live with you.
Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.
For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears.
Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus;
And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more.
For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not repent, though I did repent: for I perceive that the same epistle hath made you sorry, though it were but for a season.
Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing.
For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.
For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.
Wherefore, though I wrote unto you, I did it not for his cause that had done the wrong, nor for his cause that suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear unto you.
Therefore we were comforted in your comfort: yea, and exceedingly the more joyed we for the joy of Titus, because his spirit was refreshed by you all.
For if I have boasted any thing to him of you, I am not ashamed; but as we spake all things to you in truth, even so our boasting, which I made before Titus, is found a truth.
And his inward affection is more abundant toward you, whilst he remembereth the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling ye received him.
I rejoice therefore that I have confidence in you in all things.
This chapter of II Corinthians is pivotal, revealing the heart of Paul's apostolic ministry and the transformative power of godly sorrow. Following Paul's teachings on avoiding entanglement with unbelievers, II Corinthians 7 dives into themes of reconciliation, repentance, and the profound joy that comes from restored relationships. This chapter offers timeless insights into the Christian life, emphasizing the importance of living in holiness, embracing godly sorrow, and valuing authentic relationships within the body of Christ. Let's explore II Corinthians 7, verse by verse, to glean its rich wisdom and apply it to our lives today.
Cleansing and Completing Holiness (7:1)
II Corinthians 7:1 serves as a bridge, connecting Paul's exhortation against being "unequally yoked" with unbelievers (II Corinthians 6:14-18) to his appeal for acceptance by the Corinthians. In light of the incredible promises of God's presence among them – "we are the temple of the living God" (II Corinthians 6:16) – Paul urges believers to "cleanse ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God." This cleansing involves separating from anything, physical or spiritual, that hinders our relationship with God and embracing a life that reflects His holiness. It's a call to actively participate with God in completing His work of making us holy. This is not merely an external conformity but an internal transformation driven by a deep reverence for God.
An Appeal for Open Hearts (7:2-4)
Paul now transitions to a personal appeal, urging the Corinthians to "make room for us in your hearts" (II Corinthians 7:2). He emphatically denies any wrongdoing, corruption, or exploitation of those to whom he ministered. This addresses any accusations or rumors spread by the false apostles attempting to undermine his authority. He declares his deep affection for them, stating that he is ready to both live and die with them (II Corinthians 7:3). He speaks of his great confidence and pride in them, even amidst affliction (II Corinthians 7:4). Paul's heart is filled with affection, pride, and joy over them despite the unrest caused by the false apostles. This section reveals Paul's genuine love for the Corinthians, and his earnest desire to be reconciled with them.
Comfort Through Titus' Report (7:5-7)
Paul recounts his anxiety and unrest upon arriving in Macedonia, stemming from his uncertainty about the Corinthians' response to his previous, stern letter (II Corinthians 7:5). He had been waiting for Titus, who was to bring news from Corinth (see II Corinthians 2:12-13). God, in His providence, comforted Paul through the arrival of Titus, who brought good news of their repentance and their discipline of the man who had opposed Paul (II Corinthians 7:6-7; see II Corinthians 2:1-8). This highlights how God often comforts His children through fellow believers (see II Corinthians 1:3-7). He brings people alongside those experiencing conflict who can offer a sympathetic ear and speak words of truth and encouragement. So when you see a brother or sister in Christ suffering, don’t pass up the opportunity to be used of God to bring them comfort that perhaps only you can provide.
Godly Sorrow vs. Worldly Sorrow (7:8-10)
Paul acknowledges that his letter caused them grief, yet he does not regret it because of the positive spiritual outcome (II Corinthians 7:8). He makes a crucial distinction between "godly sorrow" and "worldly sorrow" (II Corinthians 7:10). Godly sorrow leads to repentance and salvation without regret, while worldly sorrow leads to death. Worldly grief is what Judas experienced after he betrayed Jesus. He knew he had sinned and was filled with remorse, but he was unwilling to repent (see Matthew 27:3-5). In contrast, Peter experienced godly grief after denying Christ. This led to his repentance and recommitment to the Lord, resulting in his spiritual restoration (see Matthew 26:75; John 21:15-19). Godly sorrow is a deep conviction of sin that motivates us to turn away from it and seek God's forgiveness. It produces repentance, a change of mind and heart that leads to a transformed life.
The Fruit of Repentance (7:11)
Paul elaborates on the effects of their godly sorrow, listing the qualities it produced: earnestness, eagerness to clear themselves, indignation, alarm, longing, zeal, and readiness to punish wrong (II Corinthians 7:11). These qualities demonstrate the sincerity of their repentance and their renewed commitment to righteousness. Their response to what Paul wrote provided them with the opportunity to demonstrate their own devotion to him in the sight of God (II Corinthians 7:12).
Joy in Reconciliation (7:12-16)
Paul emphasizes that his primary aim in writing was not merely to address the wrongdoer or the one who was wronged, but to demonstrate their devotion to him before God (II Corinthians 7:12). This, in turn, comforted Paul and his companions (II Corinthians 7:13) because it validated the Corinthians’ faith and their desire to walk faithfully before God. Titus had been a key player in bringing harmony between the Corinthian church and Paul. The apostle had boasted of his confidence in the Corinthian believers, and he was not disappointed by the results (II Corinthians 7:14). Titus had been refreshed by them and grew in affection toward them because of their obedience, and this brought much rejoicing to them all (II Corinthians 7:13, 15-16). The chapter concludes with Paul's overflowing joy at their positive response and his complete confidence in them (II Corinthians 7:16).
Notice how both Paul and Titus experienced joy over, encouragement from, and affection for other believers because of their obedience to God. How does the obedience or disobedience of your fellow believers affect you? Are you grieved when they stray from the Lord? Are you willing to intervene as Paul did and have a difficult conversation so that they might be moved to godly grief and repentance? When they honor God through their obedience, do you rejoice and praise God? Kingdom disciples care deeply about the reputation of their King and the welfare of his people.
II Corinthians 7 is a powerful testament to the transformative power of repentance and reconciliation. It reminds us that godly sorrow, though painful, leads to spiritual growth and restored relationships. It also highlights the importance of authentic relationships within the body of Christ, where we can experience comfort, encouragement, and mutual edification. Let us embrace the lessons of this chapter, striving for holiness, cultivating godly sorrow, and valuing the bonds of fellowship with our fellow believers.
Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man.
I speak not this to condemn you: for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts to die and live with you.
Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.
For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears.
Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus;
And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more.
For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not repent, though I did repent: for I perceive that the same epistle hath made you sorry, though it were but for a season.
Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing.
For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.
For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.
Wherefore, though I wrote unto you, I did it not for his cause that had done the wrong, nor for his cause that suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear unto you.
Therefore we were comforted in your comfort: yea, and exceedingly the more joyed we for the joy of Titus, because his spirit was refreshed by you all.
For if I have boasted any thing to him of you, I am not ashamed; but as we spake all things to you in truth, even so our boasting, which I made before Titus, is found a truth.
And his inward affection is more abundant toward you, whilst he remembereth the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling ye received him.
I rejoice therefore that I have confidence in you in all things.
This chapter of II Corinthians is pivotal, revealing the heart of Paul's apostolic ministry and the transformative power of godly sorrow. Following Paul's teachings on avoiding entanglement with unbelievers, II Corinthians 7 dives into themes of reconciliation, repentance, and the profound joy that comes from restored relationships. This chapter offers timeless insights into the Christian life, emphasizing the importance of living in holiness, embracing godly sorrow, and valuing authentic relationships within the body of Christ. Let's explore II Corinthians 7, verse by verse, to glean its rich wisdom and apply it to our lives today.
Cleansing and Completing Holiness (7:1)
II Corinthians 7:1 serves as a bridge, connecting Paul's exhortation against being "unequally yoked" with unbelievers (II Corinthians 6:14-18) to his appeal for acceptance by the Corinthians. In light of the incredible promises of God's presence among them – "we are the temple of the living God" (II Corinthians 6:16) – Paul urges believers to "cleanse ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God." This cleansing involves separating from anything, physical or spiritual, that hinders our relationship with God and embracing a life that reflects His holiness. It's a call to actively participate with God in completing His work of making us holy. This is not merely an external conformity but an internal transformation driven by a deep reverence for God.
An Appeal for Open Hearts (7:2-4)
Paul now transitions to a personal appeal, urging the Corinthians to "make room for us in your hearts" (II Corinthians 7:2). He emphatically denies any wrongdoing, corruption, or exploitation of those to whom he ministered. This addresses any accusations or rumors spread by the false apostles attempting to undermine his authority. He declares his deep affection for them, stating that he is ready to both live and die with them (II Corinthians 7:3). He speaks of his great confidence and pride in them, even amidst affliction (II Corinthians 7:4). Paul's heart is filled with affection, pride, and joy over them despite the unrest caused by the false apostles. This section reveals Paul's genuine love for the Corinthians, and his earnest desire to be reconciled with them.
Comfort Through Titus' Report (7:5-7)
Paul recounts his anxiety and unrest upon arriving in Macedonia, stemming from his uncertainty about the Corinthians' response to his previous, stern letter (II Corinthians 7:5). He had been waiting for Titus, who was to bring news from Corinth (see II Corinthians 2:12-13). God, in His providence, comforted Paul through the arrival of Titus, who brought good news of their repentance and their discipline of the man who had opposed Paul (II Corinthians 7:6-7; see II Corinthians 2:1-8). This highlights how God often comforts His children through fellow believers (see II Corinthians 1:3-7). He brings people alongside those experiencing conflict who can offer a sympathetic ear and speak words of truth and encouragement. So when you see a brother or sister in Christ suffering, don’t pass up the opportunity to be used of God to bring them comfort that perhaps only you can provide.
Godly Sorrow vs. Worldly Sorrow (7:8-10)
Paul acknowledges that his letter caused them grief, yet he does not regret it because of the positive spiritual outcome (II Corinthians 7:8). He makes a crucial distinction between "godly sorrow" and "worldly sorrow" (II Corinthians 7:10). Godly sorrow leads to repentance and salvation without regret, while worldly sorrow leads to death. Worldly grief is what Judas experienced after he betrayed Jesus. He knew he had sinned and was filled with remorse, but he was unwilling to repent (see Matthew 27:3-5). In contrast, Peter experienced godly grief after denying Christ. This led to his repentance and recommitment to the Lord, resulting in his spiritual restoration (see Matthew 26:75; John 21:15-19). Godly sorrow is a deep conviction of sin that motivates us to turn away from it and seek God's forgiveness. It produces repentance, a change of mind and heart that leads to a transformed life.
The Fruit of Repentance (7:11)
Paul elaborates on the effects of their godly sorrow, listing the qualities it produced: earnestness, eagerness to clear themselves, indignation, alarm, longing, zeal, and readiness to punish wrong (II Corinthians 7:11). These qualities demonstrate the sincerity of their repentance and their renewed commitment to righteousness. Their response to what Paul wrote provided them with the opportunity to demonstrate their own devotion to him in the sight of God (II Corinthians 7:12).
Joy in Reconciliation (7:12-16)
Paul emphasizes that his primary aim in writing was not merely to address the wrongdoer or the one who was wronged, but to demonstrate their devotion to him before God (II Corinthians 7:12). This, in turn, comforted Paul and his companions (II Corinthians 7:13) because it validated the Corinthians’ faith and their desire to walk faithfully before God. Titus had been a key player in bringing harmony between the Corinthian church and Paul. The apostle had boasted of his confidence in the Corinthian believers, and he was not disappointed by the results (II Corinthians 7:14). Titus had been refreshed by them and grew in affection toward them because of their obedience, and this brought much rejoicing to them all (II Corinthians 7:13, 15-16). The chapter concludes with Paul's overflowing joy at their positive response and his complete confidence in them (II Corinthians 7:16).
Notice how both Paul and Titus experienced joy over, encouragement from, and affection for other believers because of their obedience to God. How does the obedience or disobedience of your fellow believers affect you? Are you grieved when they stray from the Lord? Are you willing to intervene as Paul did and have a difficult conversation so that they might be moved to godly grief and repentance? When they honor God through their obedience, do you rejoice and praise God? Kingdom disciples care deeply about the reputation of their King and the welfare of his people.
II Corinthians 7 is a powerful testament to the transformative power of repentance and reconciliation. It reminds us that godly sorrow, though painful, leads to spiritual growth and restored relationships. It also highlights the importance of authentic relationships within the body of Christ, where we can experience comfort, encouragement, and mutual edification. Let us embrace the lessons of this chapter, striving for holiness, cultivating godly sorrow, and valuing the bonds of fellowship with our fellow believers.