2 Corinthians 7:7

and not only by his arrival, but also by the comfort he had received from you. He told us about your longing, your mourning, and your zeal for me, so that I rejoiced all the more.

Study Bible

and not only by his arrival
The phrase "and not only by his arrival" indicates that the Apostle Paul experienced joy not merely from the physical presence of Titus but from something deeper. The Greek word for "arrival" (παρουσία, parousia) often denotes presence or coming, which in the New Testament context can also refer to the coming of Christ. Here, it emphasizes the significance of Titus's presence as a bearer of good news, reflecting the importance of fellowship and community in the early church.

but also by the comfort he had received from you
The word "comfort" (παράκλησις, paraklēsis) is rich in meaning, often translated as encouragement or consolation. It is the same root used for the Holy Spirit as the "Comforter" (Paraclete). This highlights the spiritual and emotional support the Corinthian church provided to Titus, which in turn comforted Paul. The early Christian communities were known for their mutual support, reflecting the love and unity that Christ taught.

He told us about your longing
The term "longing" (ἐπιπόθησις, epipothēsis) conveys a deep yearning or desire. This longing was likely for reconciliation and restored relationship with Paul. It reflects the Corinthians' sincere affection and desire to be in right standing with their spiritual father, showcasing the transformative power of repentance and the work of the Holy Spirit in fostering genuine love and unity among believers.

your mourning
"Mourning" (ὀδυρμός, odyrmos) suggests a profound sorrow or lamentation, often associated with repentance. In the context of 2 Corinthians, it indicates the Corinthians' sorrow over their previous actions or misunderstandings that may have caused Paul distress. This mourning is a godly sorrow that leads to repentance, as Paul discusses earlier in the chapter, demonstrating the process of spiritual growth and maturity.

and your zeal for me
The word "zeal" (ζῆλος, zēlos) denotes fervor or ardent interest. The Corinthians' zeal for Paul signifies their passionate commitment to him as their apostle and teacher. This zeal is a positive force, driving them to correct past wrongs and align themselves with Paul's teachings. It reflects the early church's dedication to apostolic authority and the teachings of Christ.

so that I rejoiced all the more
Paul's "rejoicing" (χαίρω, chairō) is a response to the good report from Titus. His joy is not just personal but spiritual, as it signifies the successful reconciliation and spiritual health of the Corinthian church. This joy is a testament to the power of God's grace in healing relationships and fostering unity within the body of Christ. It serves as an encouragement to believers to pursue reconciliation and unity, knowing that such efforts bring joy to the heart of God and His servants.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who wrote the letter to the Corinthians, expressing his joy and relief upon hearing about the Corinthians' response.

2. Titus
A fellow worker and messenger of Paul who brought news of the Corinthians' repentance and longing for Paul.

3. Corinthians
The recipients of the letter, a church community in Corinth that had previously been in conflict with Paul but had shown signs of repentance and reconciliation.

4. Macedonia
The region where Paul was when he received the encouraging report from Titus about the Corinthians.

5. The Comfort
The emotional and spiritual relief Paul experienced upon hearing of the Corinthians' positive response and change of heart.

Teaching Points

The Power of Reconciliation
The Corinthians' change of heart and reconciliation with Paul highlights the transformative power of repentance and forgiveness in Christian relationships.

The Role of Encouragement
Titus' report brought immense comfort to Paul, demonstrating the importance of sharing good news and encouragement within the body of Christ.

Longing and Zeal for Spiritual Leaders
The Corinthians' longing and zeal for Paul serve as a model for how believers should honor and support their spiritual leaders.

The Joy of Spiritual Growth
Paul's joy upon hearing of the Corinthians' spiritual progress underscores the deep satisfaction that comes from witnessing others grow in their faith.

The Importance of Godly Sorrow
The Corinthians' mourning over their previous actions reflects a godly sorrow that leads to repentance, as discussed later in 2 Corinthians 7:10.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the comfort Paul received from Titus' report reflect the nature of Christian fellowship and community?

2. In what ways can we actively encourage and support our spiritual leaders, as the Corinthians did for Paul?

3. Reflect on a time when you experienced reconciliation in a relationship. How did it impact your spiritual journey?

4. How can we cultivate a longing and zeal for spiritual growth in our own lives and in the lives of others?

5. What steps can we take to ensure that our sorrow over sin leads to genuine repentance and transformation, as seen in the Corinthians' response?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Corinthians 1:3-4
This passage speaks about God as the "God of all comfort," which ties into the comfort Paul received through Titus' report.

1 Thessalonians 3:6-7
Similar to the joy Paul felt from the Corinthians, he also experienced comfort and joy from the Thessalonians' faith and love.

Philippians 1:8
Paul's deep affection and longing for the believers, similar to the Corinthians' longing for him.

Acts 18:1-11
Provides background on Paul's initial ministry in Corinth and the establishment of the church there.

Galatians 4:19-20
Reflects Paul's deep concern and emotional investment in the spiritual well-being of the churches he ministered to.