2 Corinthians 7:11 - Exposition

For behold, etc. The effects produced by their repentance showed that it was "according to God;" for it brought forth in them "the fruits of good living to the honour and glory of God." Carefulness ; rather, earnestness, active endeavour . Yea what. There is an untranslatable energy about the original Greek. The same use of ἀλλὰ (Latin, immo vero ) in a climax is found in 1 Corinthians 6:11 . Clearing of yourselves; literally, apology, self-defence, addressed to me through Titus. Indignation . Against themselves for their neglect. Fear . Of the measures which I might take, if I came to you "with a rod" ( 1 Corinthians 4:21 ). Vehement desire. Longing that I should return to you (see verse 7). Zeal . To make up for past remissness. Revenge . Judicial punishment of the incestuous offender. The "apology" and "indignation" referred to themselves; the "fear" and "yearning" to the apostle; the "zeal" and "judicial retribution" to the offender. In all things. His summing up is, "In every respect ye approved yourselves to be pure in the matter." Whatever may have been your previous carelessness and connivance, the steps you took on receiving my letter vindicated your character. In this matter; rather, in the matter . It is quite in accordance with St. Paul's usual manner that "he speaks indefinitely of what was odious" ( 1 Thessalonians 4:6 ).