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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 2 Corinthians 1:15–24. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
The apostle here vindicates himself from the imputation of levity and inconstancy, in that he did not hold his purpose of coming to them at Corinth. His adversaries there sought all occasions to blemish his character, and reflect upon his conduct; and, it seemed, they took hold of this handle to reproach his person and discredit his ministry. Now, for his justification,
I.He avers the sincerity of his intention (Co2 1:15-17), and he does this in confidence of their good opinion of him, and that they would believe him, when he assured them he was minded, or did really intend, to come to them, and that with the design, not that he might receive, but that they might receive a second benefit, that is, a further advantage by his ministry. He tells them that he had not herein used lightness (Co2 1:17), that, as he aimed not at any secular advantage to himself (for his purpose was not according to the flesh, that is, with carnal views and aims), so it was not a rash and inconsiderate resolution that he had taken up, for he had laid his measures thus of passing by them to Macedonia, and coming again to them from Macedonia in his way to Judea (Co2 1:16), and therefore they might conclude that it was for some weighty reasons that he had altered his purpose; and that with him there was not yea yea, and nay nay, Co2 1:17. He was not to be accused of levity and inconstancy, nor a contradiction between his words and intentions. Note, Good men should be careful to preserve the reputation of sincerity and constancy; they should not resolve but upon mature deliberation, and they will not change their resolves but for weighty reasons.
II.He would not have the Corinthians to infer that his gospel was false or uncertain, nor that it was contradictory in itself, nor unto truth, Co2 1:18, Co2 1:19. For if it had been so, that he had been fickle in his purposes, or even false in the promises he made of coming to them (which he was not justly to be accused of, and so some understand his expression, Co2 1:18, Our word towards you was not yea and nay), yet it would not follow that the gospel preached not only by him, but also by others in full agreement with him, was either false or doubtful. For God is true, and the Son of God, Jesus Christ, is true. The true God, and eternal life. Jesus Christ, whom the apostle preached, is not yea and nay, but in him was yea (Co2 1:19), nothing but infallible truth. And the promises of God in Christ are not yea and nay, but yea and amen, Co2 1:20. There is an inviolable constancy and unquestionable sincerity and certainty in all the parts of the gospel of Christ. If in the promises that the ministers of the gospel make as common men, and about their own affairs, they see cause sometimes to vary from them, yet the promises of the gospel covenant, which they preach, stand firm and inviolable. Bad men are false; good men are fickle; but God is true, neither fickle nor false. The apostle, having mentioned the stability of the divine promises, makes a digression to illustrate this great and sweet truth, that all the promises of God are yea and amen. For,
1.They are the promises of the God of truth (Co2 1:20), of him that cannot lie, whose truth as well as mercy endureth for ever.
2.They are made in Christ Jesus (Co2 1:20), the Amen, the true and faithful witness; he hath purchased and ratified the covenant of promises, and is the surety of the covenant, Heb 7:22.
3.They are confirmed by the Holy Spirit. He does establish Christians in the faith of the gospel; he has anointed them with his sanctifying grace, which in scripture is often compared to oil; he has sealed them, for their security and confirmation; and he is given as an earnest in their hearts, Co2 1:21, Co2 1:22. An earnest secures the promise, and is part of the payment. The illumination of the Spirit is an earnest of everlasting life; and the comforts of the Spirit are an earnest of everlasting joy. Note, The veracity of God, the mediation of Christ, and the operation of the Spirit, are all engaged that the promises shall be sure to all the seed, and the accomplishment of them shall be to the glory of God (Co2 1:20) for the glory of his rich and sovereign grace, and never-failing truth and faithfulness.
III.The apostle gives a good reason why he did not come to Corinth, as was expected, Co2 1:23.
It was that he might spare them. They ought therefore to own his kindness and tenderness. He knew there were things amiss among them, and such as deserved censure, but was desirous to show tenderness. He assures them that this is the true reason, after this very solemn manner: I call God for a record upon my soul - a way of speaking not justifiable where used in trivial matters; but this was very justifiable in the apostle, for his necessary vindication, and for the credit and usefulness of his ministry, which was struck at by his opposers. He adds, to prevent mistakes, that he did not pretend to have any dominion over their faith, Co2 1:24. Christ only is the Lord of our faith; he is the author and finisher of our faith, Heb 12:2. He reveals to us what we must believe. Paul, and Apollos, and the rest of the apostles, were but ministers by whom they believed (Co1 3:5), and so the helpers of their joy, even the joy of faith. For by faith we stand firmly, and live safely and comfortably. Our strength and ability are owing to faith, and our comfort and joy must flow from faith.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
2 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
This is proof that the Corinthians have mended their ways, because earlier on Paul did not want to see them at all. Commentary on Paul’s Epistles.
"And in this confidence I was minded to come before unto you." What confidence? "In relying exceedingly on you, glorying over you, being your glorying, loving you exceedingly, being conscious to myself of nothing evil, being confident that all is spiritual with us, and having you as witnesses of this."
"I was minded to come unto you, and by you to pass into Macedonia."
And yet he promised the contrary in his former Epistle, saying thus: "Now I will come unto you when I shall have passed through Macedonia: for I do pass through Macedonia." How is it then that he here says the contrary? He doth not say the contrary: away with the thought. For it is contrary indeed to what he wrote, but not contrary to what he wished.
Wherefore also here he said not, "I wrote that I would pass by you into Macedonia;" but, "I was minded." For though I did not write on that wise," he says, "nevertheless I was greatly desirous, and 'was minded,' even before, to have come unto you: so far was I from wishing to be later than my promise that I would gladly have come before it." "That ye might have a second benefit." What is, a second benefit? "That ye might have a double benefit, both that from my writings, and that from my presence." By "benefit" he here means pleasure.
"And by you to pass into Macedonia, and to come again from Macedonia unto you, and of you to be set forward on my journey unto Judaea."
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Summary
In 2 Corinthians 1:15, the Apostle Paul articulates his original intention to visit the Corinthian church twice, a plan he had confidently formed with the aim of imparting a "second benefit" or spiritual blessing to them. This statement serves as part of his broader defense against accusations of fickleness or insincerity regarding his travel arrangements, emphasizing his pastoral heart and the genuine desire to minister further grace and encouragement to the believers in Corinth.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is situated at the beginning of Paul's second letter to the Corinthians, immediately following his customary salutation and a profound expression of comfort in affliction. The overarching theme of 2 Corinthians 1 is Paul's defense of his apostolic integrity and the nature of his ministry, particularly in light of changed travel plans that had caused some in Corinth to question his trustworthiness. Verses 2 Corinthians 1:12-14 establish Paul's clear conscience and the Corinthians' shared joy and boasting in him, setting the stage for his explanation of why his initial plans (mentioned in 2 Corinthians 1:15-16) were altered. His subsequent explanation in 2 Corinthians 1:17-20 directly addresses the perceived inconsistency, linking his own reliability to the faithfulness of God.
Historical & Cultural Context
Paul's relationship with the Corinthian church was complex and often strained. Corinth, a major Roman port city, was a melting pot of cultures, philosophies, and religions, which contributed to various issues within the church, including factions, moral laxity, and challenges to Paul's apostolic authority. Travel in the ancient world was arduous and subject to many unpredictable factors, making fixed itineraries difficult to maintain. However, in a culture that highly valued honor and consistency, a change in plans could be easily misconstrued as unreliability or even deceit. Paul's opponents likely seized upon his altered itinerary as evidence to undermine his credibility, making his detailed explanation in this chapter crucial for restoring trust and defending his ministry.
Key Themes
The verse contributes significantly to several key themes woven throughout 2 Corinthians. First, it highlights Apostolic Integrity and Transparency, as Paul openly explains his intentions and actions to maintain his credibility among the Corinthians, a theme he revisits frequently (e.g., 2 Corinthians 4:2). Second, it underscores Pastoral Care and Spiritual Edification, revealing Paul's deep desire to impart spiritual blessings and further strengthen the believers, reflecting his role as a spiritual father (1 Corinthians 4:15). Third, the concept of Divine Grace and Benefit is central, as Paul views his ministry and presence as a conduit for God's favor and spiritual advantage to the church (2 Corinthians 9:8).
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
From the perfect form of a verb meaning "to suffer" or "to experience," this noun denotes reliance, assurance, or trust. Here, it signifies Paul's firm conviction and settled resolve in his original plans, indicating that his intention to visit was not whimsical but a matter of settled purpose and belief in its spiritual benefit.
This verb, in the middle voice, means "to will," "to be willing," or "to intend." It expresses a deliberate and conscious decision, a volitional act. Paul's use of this word emphasizes that his desire to visit was a thoughtful and intentional choice, not a casual thought or an uncommitted wish.
While famously translated as "grace," this word carries a broader semantic range including graciousness, favor, gift, or blessing. In this context, it refers to a spiritual advantage, a blessing, or an act of divine favor that Paul intended to impart through his presence, teaching, and ministry. It implies a tangible spiritual gain or enrichment for the Corinthians.
Verse Breakdown
"And in this confidence"
Paul begins by grounding his past intention in a state of firm assurance and conviction. This "confidence" refers to the integrity of his conscience and the transparency of his ministry, as he has just explained in the preceding verses. His plans were not made lightly but with a settled belief in their rightness and benefit.
"I was minded to come unto you before"
This clause reveals Paul's original, deliberate intention to visit the Corinthians. The use of "minded" (from boúlomai) highlights his conscious decision and willingness. The phrase "unto you before" indicates that this was his initial, pre-planned itinerary, implying a visit that would precede other travels or engagements.
"that ye might have a second benefit;"
This final clause states the purpose and desired outcome of Paul's intended visit. The "second benefit" (or "second grace") suggests that his first visit had already brought a "benefit" (spiritual blessing or grace), and he desired to impart further spiritual enrichment, teaching, or encouragement. It implies an ongoing process of spiritual growth and the reception of God's favor through his apostolic ministry.
Literary Devices
Paul employs Ethos in this verse, appealing to his character and credibility by asserting the sincerity and deliberate nature of his original travel plans. By stating "in this confidence I was minded," he presents himself as a man of integrity whose intentions are well-considered and aimed at the spiritual good of the Corinthians. The phrase "second benefit" functions as a form of Euphemism or Understatement, referring to the spiritual blessings and grace he sought to impart, which would be far more profound than a mere "benefit" in a secular sense. This also serves as a subtle form of Pathos, reminding the Corinthians of his deep pastoral care and the spiritual value he places on their relationship, aiming to evoke a positive emotional response and reinforce their trust in him.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Paul's statement in 2 Corinthians 1:15 is deeply rooted in the theology of grace and the nature of apostolic ministry. The "benefit" Paul intended to impart is best understood as a manifestation of God's cháris (grace) flowing through his ministry. This highlights that spiritual growth and enrichment are not solely dependent on individual effort but are also facilitated by the divinely appointed ministry of others. Paul saw himself as a steward of God's mysteries, commissioned to deliver spiritual truth and encouragement, thereby extending God's favor to the churches. His desire to provide a "second benefit" underscores the ongoing, progressive nature of sanctification and the continuous need for believers to receive fresh infusions of grace and teaching for their spiritual maturity. This also speaks to the importance of genuine pastoral care, where the minister's primary aim is the spiritual well-being and edification of the flock, rather than personal gain or convenience.
Reflection and Application
Paul's explanation in 2 Corinthians 1:15 offers profound insights for both leaders and congregants today. For those in ministry, it underscores the vital importance of integrity in intention and transparency in communication. Even when plans change, the underlying motivation to serve and bless God's people should remain steadfast and clearly articulated. It reminds us that ministry is fundamentally about imparting God's grace and spiritual benefit, not about personal agendas or convenience. For all believers, this verse encourages a posture of receptivity to spiritual growth and a gracious understanding when circumstances alter the plans of others, especially those in leadership. We are called to discern the genuine heart behind actions, extending grace and trust rather than quickly judging based on perceived inconsistencies. Ultimately, it teaches us to value opportunities for mutual spiritual enrichment and to trust that God's ultimate "benefit" to us, through Christ, is always assured, even when human plans shift.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was Paul's travel plan to Corinth so significant that he needed to defend it?
Paul's travel plans were significant because they became a point of contention and accusation against his integrity. He had initially promised to visit Corinth twice (once on his way to Macedonia and again on his return), as detailed in 2 Corinthians 1:15-16. When these plans changed, possibly due to unforeseen circumstances or a strategic decision to avoid a more painful visit (as implied in 2 Corinthians 2:1-2), some in the Corinthian church, particularly his opponents, seized upon this as evidence of his unreliability, fickleness, or even deceit. In a culture that highly valued consistency and honor, such accusations could severely undermine his apostolic authority and the credibility of his message. Therefore, Paul needed to defend his actions to restore trust and ensure the Corinthians understood his motives were pure and focused on their spiritual good, not on personal convenience or duplicity.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
While 2 Corinthians 1:15 speaks of Paul's intention to impart a "second benefit" to the Corinthians, this concept finds its ultimate and most profound fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Paul's ministry, and any spiritual benefit he could offer, was always a derivative of the immeasurable grace and blessing found in Christ. Jesus is the singular source of all spiritual benefits, the one through whom God's cháris (grace) is fully manifested to humanity. He is the "second Adam" who brings life where the first brought death (1 Corinthians 15:45-49). Every spiritual blessing we possess is "in Christ" (Ephesians 1:3), and His advent brought grace upon grace (John 1:16). The "benefit" Paul sought to bring was a further unveiling of this divine grace, a deeper experience of the life and truth found in the Son. Thus, Paul's desire to give a "second benefit" foreshadows the unending, ever-increasing spiritual blessings that flow from our union with Christ, who is the "yes" and "amen" to all of God's promises (2 Corinthians 1:20). He is the ultimate and continuous "benefit" to all who believe, providing not just a second, but an eternal and complete spiritual advantage.