2 CORINTHIANS 7

PAUL ENCOURAGES THE CORINTHIANS TO CONTINUE PURSUING GOD

In response to God’s fulfilled promises, Paul encourages believers to cleanse themselves of anything that defiles their body or spirit. Paul speaks of his sustained joy from God despite facing many trials. God has provided Paul with comfort and rejoicing.

Paul recalls that his previous letter to the Corinthians caused them grief. His intention was not to upset the people in Corinth, but correct their wrongdoing and encourage them to follow God. Because they were grieved by the reality of their sinfulness, many repented. Paul describes this as godly grief and says that it produces rejoicing and salvation. Sometimes the process of sanctification, or becoming more like Jesus, can be painful and refining, but Paul encourages the Corinthians to persevere in faith.

Titus, a fellow church leader and missionary with Paul, visited Corinth and returned with a positive report. Paul is encouraged by the Corinthians response to the first letter and expresses confidence in and affection for the believers in Corinth.