2 Corinthians 7:15
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2 Corinthians 7:15
15 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.
Chapter Context
2 Corinthians 7 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, prayer, redemption. 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 13-16: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it provides guidance for worship and spiritual devotion. 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 7:15
15 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.
Analysis
And his inward affection is more abundant toward you—Kai ta splanchna autou perissoteros eis hymas estin (καὶ τὰ σπλάγχνα αὐτοῦ περισσοτέρως εἰς ὑμᾶς ἐστιν, "and his affections are even more abundantly toward you"). Splanchna (σπλάγχνα, literally "bowels/intestines") refers to the seat of emotions in ancient physiology—deep visceral affection. Philemon 7, 12, 20 use it of Christian love; Colossians 3:12 links it to compassion. Titus's affection wasn't duty but genuine emotional bond forged through ministry crisis.
Whilst he remembereth the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling ye received him—Anamimnēskomenou tēn pantōn hymōn hypakoēn, hōs meta phobou kai tromou edexasthe auton (ἀναμιμνῃσκομένου τὴν πάντων ὑμῶν ὑπακοήν, ὡς μετὰ φόβου καὶ τρόμου ἐδέξασθε αὐτόν, "while remembering the obedience of all of you, how with fear and trembling you received him"). Hypakoē (ὑπακοή, "obedience") isn't servile submission but covenant faithfulness—the response of faith (Rom 1:5, 16:26). Meta phobou kai tromou (μετὰ φόβου καὶ τρόμου, "with fear and trembling")—the same phrase Paul uses for working out salvation (Phil 2:12) and slave-master relationships (Eph 6:5). The Corinthians treated Titus with reverence appropriate to Christ's ambassador.
Historical Context
Receiving traveling Christian workers 'with fear and trembling' contrasted with pagan hospitality customs based on patronage and honor hierarchies. The Corinthians could have rejected Titus (as Paul's proxy) or received him with political calculation. Instead, their humble reception demonstrated they recognized apostolic authority. In a shame-honor culture, 'fear and trembling' before a messenger showed submission to the one who sent him—ultimately God.
Reflection
- How does my reception of Christian leaders and teachers reveal my attitude toward the authority of God's Word?
- What does Titus's growing affection for the Corinthians teach about how suffering together builds ministry relationships?
- Do I treat church leaders with 'fear and trembling' (reverent respect) or casual familiarity that undermines spiritual authority?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 2 Corinthians 2:9, 6:12, Job 21:6, Psalms 2:11, 119:120, Isaiah 66:2