16. therefore—omitted in the oldest manuscripts. The conclusion is more emphatical without it. that I have confidence in you in all things—rather, as Greek, "that in everything I am of good courage concerning (literally, 'in the case of') you," as contrasted with my former doubts concerning you. read more
2. The encouraging responses of the Corinthians so far 7:5-16Here Paul rejoiced that the Corinthians’ recent reception of Titus and their response to Paul’s previous letter evidenced a proper response to him. He said this to encourage his readers to follow through and become completely openhearted toward him. read more
C. Appeal for restoration of the Corinthians’ confidence in Paul 6:11-7:16The apostle now turned to a direct appeal for the Corinthians to reconcile with him in their hearts."The call for reconciliation with Paul, therefore, stands in parallel with the call for reconciliation with God [2 Corinthians 5:20]. While it would be too much to say that these two forms of reconciliation are equally important, for Paul they are directly linked with one another." [Note: Beverly R. Gaventa, "Apostle and... read more
II. ANSWERS TO INSINUATIONS ABOUT THE SINCERITY OF PAUL’S COMMITMENT TO THE CORINTHIANS AND TO THE MINISTRY 1:12-7:16Second Corinthians is a rather difficult book to outline because it is a very personal letter that flowed from Paul’s heart."Traditionally, Paul’s two letters to Timothy and one to Titus are called ’the Pastorals.’ But 2 Corinthians has a strong claim to be recognized as the Pastoral Epistle par excellence, because it contains not ’pure’ but ’applied’ pastoralia." [Note: Harris,... read more
Titus’ encouragement at their response 7:13-16 read more
The Corinthians’ submissive response to Titus, even though initially they feared him, had endeared these Christians to Titus greatly. Their speedy acquiescence constituted both the basis of Paul’s appeal to them to open their hearts wider to him and the ground of his confidence that they would do so. read more
Paul was now completely confident of the Corinthians’ continuing submissive obedience to him as their spiritual father and apostle. Consequently he proceeded to appeal to them again (2 Corinthians 8:1 to 2 Corinthians 9:15)."This brief verse, indeed, provides a perfect transition to all that follows. It is the delicate pin around which the whole of the epistle pivots." [Note: Ibid., p. 282.] read more
7:15 affections (h-3) Lit. 'bowels.' read more
(e) 7:2-16. The Apostle’s Joy in the Corinthians’ repentanceSt. Paul goes on to ask them to give him their affection, and renews his assurance of purity of deed and motive. He tells them of the suspense in which he had awaited their response to his ’severe’ letter, and his joy at the return of Titus with good news. He is now glad that he vexed them by that letter—though he was inclined to regret his action for a time—because of its happy results in their attitude and conduct; and he concludes... read more
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Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible - 2 Corinthians 7:15
15. his inward affection—literally, "bowels" (compare 2 Corinthians 6:12; Philippians 1:8; Philippians 2:1; Colossians 3:12). obedience— (Colossians 3:12- :). fear and trembling—with trembling anxiety to obey my wishes, and fearful lest there should be aught in yourselves to offend him and me (Colossians 3:12- :; compare 1 Corinthians 2:3). read more