2 Corinthians 2:7
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Corinthians 2:7
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.
Chapter Context
2 Corinthians 2 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of prayer, mercy, creation. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 55-56 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Paul defended his apostleship against challenges in a culture valuing rhetorical prowess.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-17: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 2 Corinthians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
2 Corinthians 2:7
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.
Analysis
Ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him—Paul employs two imperatives: charisasthai (χαρίσασθαι, "to forgive, show grace") and parakalesai (παρακαλέσαι, "to comfort, encourage"). The verb charizomai shares its root with charis (grace), indicating forgiveness is a gracious gift, not earned merit. Having disciplined, the church must now actively restore—forgiveness requires intentional comfort, not merely ceasing hostility.
Lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow—The verb katapothē (καταποθῇ, "to swallow up, overwhelm") suggests drowning or complete engulfment. The phrase perissotera lupē (περισσοτέρᾳ λύπῃ, "excessive sorrow") warns of despair leading to spiritual destruction. Unrelenting discipline can drive the repentant to abandon faith entirely. Satan's goal (v. 11) is accomplished whether through unrepentant sin or through excessive grief that destroys the penitent. Paul's pastoral wisdom recognizes both dangers.
Historical Context
Roman legal practice often demanded perpetual shame for certain offenses. Paul's insistence on restoration after repentance reflects Hebrew concepts of restoration (as in Psalm 51) rather than Greco-Roman honor codes. The church operates by grace, not shame-based social control.
Reflection
- How does ongoing punishment of the repentant contradict the Gospel of grace?
- What practical steps should accompany verbal forgiveness in restoration?
- How can churches guard against both laxness in discipline and harshness in restoration?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 2 Corinthians 5:4, 7:10, Psalms 21:9, 124:3, Proverbs 1:12, 17:22