2 Corinthians 7:11-13 (WEL) For, look, concerning this very thing, you were sad in the godly sense, and what earnestness it caused to clear yourselves. Indeed, what disgust, what fear, what longing, what zeal, what handing out of justice. In all this, you have proved yourselves to be innocent in this matter. 12 Therefore, even though I wrote to you, not on account of the wrongdoer or of the one wronged, but instead that our care for you in God’s sight might be obvious. 13 So then, we were comforted at your comfort. Yes, and we rejoiced exceedingly at Titus’ joy because his spirit was refreshed by all of you.
V11 For, look, concerning this very thing, you were sad in the godly sense, and what earnestness it caused to clear yourselves. Indeed, what disgust, what fear, what longing, what zeal, what handing out of justice. In all this, you have proved yourselves to be innocent in this matter.
Their action in dealing with the sin shows that they repented correctly. They repented not from pressure or God’s decree, they repented because the Holy Spirit convicted them of their sin. This is sorrow in the godly sense.
Earnestness shows their haste to make correction. They did not argue, stall, or procrastinate.
The assembly showed: 1) godly repentance (change of mind and actions), 2) earnestness (quick to apply God’s word and punishment), 3) disgust (understanding the seriousness of this sin in God’s sight), 4) fear (respect and desire to honor God), 5) longing (strong desire to do what is right), 6) zeal (to obey), 7) handing out of justice (applying the sentence once they knew what to do).
V12 Therefore, even though I wrote to you, not on account of the wrongdoer or of the one wronged, but instead that our care for you in God’s sight might be obvious.
Paul’s motivation was for the congregation to obey God’s rules. This shows an example of pastoral care and action.
V13 So then, we were comforted at your comfort. Yes, and we rejoiced exceedingly at Titus’ joy because his spirit was refreshed by all of you.
Paul and his team were comforted by the brothers and sisters’ obedience and good attitude. Titus rejoiced, and their repentance and actions eased any tension and worry Titus had, which then comforted Paul when he heard the news.
We learn:
- To obey the Law of Christ quickly, properly, with longing to please God.
- The proper response to obedience.
Questions:
- How do you respond to the Law of Christ?
- How do you respond to godly counsel regarding your sin?