2 Corinthians 7:5-9, Comfort

5 For even when we came into Macedonia, our bodies had no rest, but we were afflicted at every turn—fighting without and fear within. 6 But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus, 7 and not only by his coming but also by the comfort with which he was comforted by you, as he told us of your longing, your mourning, your zeal for me, so that I rejoiced still more. 8 For even if I made you grieve with my letter, I do not regret it—though I did regret it, for I see that that letter grieved you, though only for a while. 9 As it is, I rejoice, not because you were grieved, but because you were grieved into repenting. For you felt a godly grief, so that you suffered no loss through us.

What is Paul so worried about? He wonders how the Corinthians received the painful letter and about their partnership in the gospel. Paul’s use of the word translated “comfort” could perhaps better be translated as “encourage.” God is the one who encourages Paul and them. When Paul speaks of the coming of Titus he uses the Greek word “parousia,” which is used for the second coming of Christ. Titus’ coming was in a sense a royal appearance of God’s surrogate, and Paul treats it as special. Titus brings God’s comfort to Paul because he reports the Corinthians have repented and turned back to Paul. The painful letter produced what he had wished.

Paul had concerns about sending the letter, but it has led to a change of life and lifestyle brought about by repentance, and this he does not regret. They lost nothing but gained in holiness.

Reflection:

Circle me Lord

Keep protection near

And danger afar

Circle me Lord

Keep hope within

Keep doubt without

Circle me Lord

Keep light near

And darkness afar

Circle me Lord

Keep peace within

Keep evil out

– David Adam