1 But I determined this with myself, that I would not come again to you in heaviness.
2 For if I make you sorry, who is he then that maketh me glad, but the same which is made sorry by me?
3 And I wrote this same unto you, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow from them of whom I ought to rejoice; having confidence in you all, that my joy is [the joy] of you all.
4 For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote unto you with many tears; not that ye should be grieved, but that ye might know the love which I have more abundantly unto you.
5 But if any have caused grief, he hath not grieved me, but in part: that I may not overcharge you all.
6 Sufficient to such a man [is] this punishment, which [was inflicted] of many.
7 So that contrariwise ye [ought] rather to forgive [him], and comfort [him], lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.
8 Wherefore I beseech you that ye would confirm [your] love toward him.
9 For to this end also did I write, that I might know the proof of you, whether ye be obedient in all things.
10 To whom ye forgive any thing, I [forgive] also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave [it], for your sakes [forgave I it] in the person of Christ;
11 Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.
12 Furthermore, when I came to Troas to [preach] Christ’s gospel, and a door was opened unto me of the Lord,
13 I had no rest in my spirit, because I found not Titus my brother: but taking my leave of them, I went from thence into Macedonia.
14 Now thanks [be] unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place.
15 For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish:
16 To the one [we are] the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who [is] sufficient for these things?
17 For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.
Overview of 2 Corinthians Chapter 2
In this chapter, the Apostle Paul addresses the Corinthian church regarding his previous letter and the emotional turmoil it caused. He emphasizes themes of forgiveness, comfort, and the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with the community of believers.
Key Themes
- Emotional Turmoil: Paul expresses his deep feelings regarding the pain caused by his previous correspondence.
- Forgiveness: The chapter highlights the necessity of forgiving those who have wronged us, reflecting Christ’s forgiveness.
- Comfort in Christ: Paul discusses the comfort believers receive from God, which enables them to comfort others.
- Spiritual Warfare: The chapter touches on the importance of being aware of the schemes of Satan and the need for vigilance in the faith.
Detailed Analysis
Verses 1-4: Paul’s Concern for the Corinthians
Paul begins by expressing his decision not to come to Corinth in sorrow, indicating that he desires joy for both himself and the church. He reflects on the emotional weight of his previous letter, which was meant to admonish but also to demonstrate love.
- Paul’s intention was not to cause pain but to express his love and concern.
- He acknowledges the pain that his previous letter inflicted, showcasing his sensitivity to their feelings.
Verses 5-11: The Importance of Forgiveness
In these verses, Paul addresses a specific individual who has caused grief. He urges the church to forgive and comfort this person, emphasizing that forgiveness is essential for healing and restoration.
- Paul encourages the Corinthians to reaffirm their love for the offender.
- He highlights the danger of unforgiveness, suggesting that it can lead to spiritual consequences and give an advantage to Satan.
Verses 12-17: The Ministry of the Gospel
Paul shifts focus to his ministry, describing his travels and the challenges he faced. He expresses gratitude for the triumphs in Christ, illustrating how God uses believers to spread the knowledge of Him.
- Paul contrasts the fragrance of Christ among believers with the stench of death among those who reject Him.
- He emphasizes the seriousness of the ministry and the responsibility it carries, indicating that not all are suited for this calling.
Conclusion
Chapter 2 of 2 Corinthians serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of relationships within the church. Paul’s emphasis on forgiveness, comfort, and the seriousness of the ministry reflects his pastoral heart and commitment to the spiritual well-being of the Corinthian believers. The chapter encourages readers to embrace forgiveness and recognize the importance of unity and love within the body of Christ.
