2 Corinthians 1:7

And our hope for you is sure, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you will share in our comfort.

Study Bible

And our hope for you is firm
The word "hope" in Greek is "ἐλπίς" (elpis), which conveys a confident expectation rather than a mere wish. In the context of 2 Corinthians, Paul expresses a steadfast assurance in the spiritual well-being and perseverance of the Corinthian believers. This hope is "firm," indicating a solid, unwavering foundation. Historically, the early church faced numerous trials, and Paul's confidence in the Corinthians' faithfulness is rooted in the transformative power of the Gospel and the work of the Holy Spirit within them. This phrase encourages believers today to hold onto a firm hope in Christ, knowing that it is anchored in the promises of God.

because we know
The Greek word for "know" is "οἴδαμεν" (oidamen), which implies a deep, intimate understanding or awareness. Paul speaks from a place of experiential knowledge, having witnessed the faith and endurance of the Corinthians. This knowledge is not speculative but is based on the evidence of God's faithfulness in their lives. For contemporary Christians, this serves as a reminder that our faith is not blind but is informed by the historical and personal realities of God's work in the world and in our lives.

that just as you share in our sufferings
The term "share" comes from the Greek "κοινωνέω" (koinoneo), meaning to participate or have fellowship with. The early church was marked by a profound sense of community, where believers supported one another in times of trial. "Sufferings" refers to the hardships and persecutions faced by Paul and his companions, which were common experiences for Christians in the first century. This sharing in sufferings is a testament to the unity of the body of Christ, where believers are called to bear one another's burdens. It highlights the reality that suffering is an integral part of the Christian journey, yet it is also a means through which believers are drawn closer to Christ and to each other.

so also you will share in our comfort
The word "comfort" is translated from the Greek "παράκλησις" (paraklesis), which can also mean encouragement or consolation. This comfort is not merely a relief from suffering but is the divine consolation that comes from God, often through the Holy Spirit, who is referred to as the "Paraclete" or Comforter. The promise that the Corinthians "will share" in this comfort assures them that their trials are not in vain and that God's comfort is both present and future. Historically, this reflects the early church's understanding of suffering as a precursor to divine comfort and glory. For believers today, it is a powerful reminder that God's comfort is available to us in our trials, and it is a shared experience within the community of faith.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who authored the letter to the Corinthians, addressing the church in Corinth with encouragement and teaching.

2. Corinthians
The recipients of the letter, a Christian community in Corinth facing various challenges and persecutions.

3. Sufferings
Refers to the trials and tribulations faced by Paul and the Corinthians, which are part of the Christian experience.

4. Comfort
The consolation and encouragement provided by God, which Paul assures the Corinthians they will share in.

5. God
The source of all comfort, who provides strength and hope to believers in times of suffering.

Teaching Points

The Certainty of Hope
Our hope in Christ is steadfast and sure, rooted in the promises of God. This hope is not wishful thinking but a confident expectation based on God's faithfulness.

Shared Sufferings and Comfort
As believers, we are called to share in both the sufferings and the comfort of Christ. This shared experience strengthens our community and deepens our reliance on God.

God as the Source of Comfort
True comfort comes from God, who is the ultimate source of peace and encouragement. In times of trial, we are invited to draw near to Him and receive His comfort.

Encouragement in Community
The Christian community is a vital source of support and encouragement. We are called to bear one another's burdens and share in each other's joys and sorrows.

Endurance through Trials
Suffering is not without purpose. It produces endurance and character, leading us to a deeper relationship with Christ and a greater capacity to comfort others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the certainty of our hope in Christ impact the way we face trials and sufferings?

2. In what ways can we actively share in the sufferings and comfort of our fellow believers within our community?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's comfort during a difficult period. How did that experience shape your faith?

4. How can we cultivate a deeper reliance on God as the source of our comfort in everyday life?

5. What practical steps can we take to encourage and support others who are going through trials, based on the teachings of 2 Corinthians 1:7 and related scriptures?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 8:17
This verse speaks about sharing in Christ's sufferings and glory, similar to the theme of sharing in sufferings and comfort in 2 Corinthians 1:7.

Philippians 3:10
Paul expresses a desire to know Christ and the power of His resurrection, sharing in His sufferings, which aligns with the idea of participating in both suffering and comfort.

1 Peter 4:13
Encourages believers to rejoice in sharing Christ's sufferings, with the promise of future joy and comfort.

Isaiah 40:1
Speaks of God's comfort to His people, reinforcing the theme of divine consolation amidst trials.

Matthew 5:4
Jesus' teaching on the blessedness of those who mourn, for they will be comforted, echoes the promise of comfort in suffering.