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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 2:12–17. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
After these directions concerning the excommunicated person the apostle makes a long digression, to give the Corinthians an account of his travels and labours for the furtherance of the gospel, and what success he had therein, declaring at the same time how much he was concerned for them in their affairs, how he had no rest in his spirit, when he found not Titus at Troas (Co2 2:13), as he expected, from whom he hoped to have understood more perfectly how it fared with them. And we find afterwards (Co2 7:5-7) that when the apostle had come into Macedonia he was comforted by the coming of Titus, and the information he gave him concerning them. So that we may look upon all that we read from this second chapter, v. 12, to ch. 7:5, as a kind of parenthesis. Observe here,
I.Paul's unwearied labour and diligence in his work, Co2 2:12, Co2 2:13.
He travelled from place to place, to preach the gospel. He went to Troas from Philippi by sea (Act 20:6), and thence he went to Macedonia; so that he was prevented from passing by Corinth, as he had designed, Co2 1:16. But, though he was prevented in his design as to the place of working, yet he was unwearied in his work.
II.His success in his work:
A great door was opened to him of the Lord, Co2 2:12. He had a great deal of work to do wherever he came, and had good success in his work; for God made manifest the savour of his knowledge by him in every place where he came. He had an opportunity to open the door of his mouth freely, and God opened the hearts of his hearers, as the heart of Lydia (Act 16:14), and the apostle speaks of this as a matter of thankfulness to God and of rejoicing to his soul: Thanks be to God, who always causeth us to triumph in Christ. Note,
1.A believer's triumphs are all in Christ. In ourselves we are weak, and have neither joy nor victory; but in Christ we may rejoice and triumph.
2.True believers have constant cause of triumph in Christ, for they are more than conquerors through him who hath loved them, Rom 8:37.
3.God causeth them to triumph in Christ. It is God who has given us matter for triumph, and hearts to triumph. To him therefore be the praise and glory of all.
4.The good success of the gospel is a good reason for a Christian's joy and rejoicing.
III.The comfort that the apostle and his companions in labour found, even when the gospel was not successful to the salvation of some who heard it, Co2 2:15-17. Here observe,
1.The different success of the gospel, and its different effects upon several sorts of persons to whom it is preached. The success is different; for some are saved by it, while others perish under it. Nor is this to be wondered at, considering the different effects the gospel has. For,
(1.)Unto some it is a savour of death unto death. Those who are willingly ignorant, and wilfully obstinate, disrelish the gospel, as men dislike an ill savour, and therefore they are blinded and hardened by it: it stirs up their corruptions, and exasperates their spirits. They reject the gospel, to their ruin, even to spiritual and eternal death.
(2.)Unto others the gospel is a savour of life unto life. To humble and gracious souls the preaching of the word is most delightful and profitable. As it is sweeter than honey to the taste, so it is more grateful than the most precious odours to the senses, and much more profitable; for as it quickened them at first, when they were dead in trespasses and sins, so it makes them more lively, and will end in eternal life.
2.The awful impressions this matter made upon the mind of the apostle, and should also make upon our spirits: Who is sufficient for these things? Co2 2:16. Tis hikanos - who is worthy to be employed in such weighty work, a work of such vast importance, because of so great consequence? Who is able to perform such a difficult work, that requires so much skill and industry? The work is great and our strength is small; yea, of ourselves we have no strength at all; all our sufficiency is of God. Note, If men did seriously consider what great things depend upon the preaching of the gospel, and how difficult the work of the ministry is, they would be very cautious how they enter upon it, and very careful to perform it well.
3.The comfort which the apostle had under this serious consideration,
(1.)Because faithful ministers shall be accepted of God, whatever their success be: We are, if faithful, unto God a sweet savour of Christ (Co2 2:15), in those who are saved and in those also who perish. God will accept of sincere intentions, and honest endeavours, though with many they are not successful. Ministers shall be accepted, and recompensed, not according to their success, but according to their fidelity. Though Israel be not gathered, yet shall I be glorious in the eyes of the Lord, Isa 49:5.
(2.)Because his conscience witnessed to his faithfulness, Co2 2:17. Though many did corrupt the word of God, yet the apostle's conscience witnessed to his fidelity. He did not mix his own notions with the doctrines and institutions of Christ; he durst not add to, nor diminish fRom. the word of God; he was faithful in dispensing the gospel, as he received it from the Lord, and had no secular turn to serve; his aim was to approve himself to God, remembering that his eye was always upon him; he therefore spoke and acted always as in the sight of God, and therefore in sincerity. Note, What we do in religion is not of God, does not come from God, will not reach to God, unless it be done in sincerity, as in the sight of God.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
5 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.
Lacking the consolation of Titus’s presence Paul found the work unbearable, because there was so much opposition to him. For although some people had opened their hearts and accepted the Word of God, there were many unbelievers who reacted with impudent hostility. One lone voice could not teach the new believers and fend off these attacks at the same time. Therefore Paul said goodbye to those who had received him and left for Macedonia.
"Taking my leave of them, I went from thence." That is, 'I spent no longer time, being straitened and distressed.' And perhaps the work was even impeded by his absence. And this was no light consolation to them too. For if when a door was opened there, and for this purpose he had come; yet because he found not the brother, he quickly started away; much more, he saith, ought ye to make allowance for the compulsion of those affairs which lead us and lead us about everywhere, and suffer us not according as we desire either to journey, or to tarry longer amongst those with whom we may wish to remain. Whence also he proceeds in this place again to refer his journeyings to God, as he did above to the Spirit.
These words seem on the one hand to be unworthy of Paul, if because of a brother's absence he threw away so great an opportunity of saving; and on the other, to hang apart from the context. What then? Will ye that we should first prove that they hang upon the context, or, that he hath said nothing unworthy of himself? As I think, the second, for so the other point also will be easier and clearer.
How then do these words hang upon those before them? Let us recall to mind what those were, and so we shall perceive this. What then were those before? What he said at the beginning. "I would not have you," saith he, "ignorant concerning our affliction which befell us in Asia, that we were weighed down exceedingly, beyond our power." Now having shown the manner of his deliverance, and inserted the intermediate matter, he is of necessity led to teach them again that in yet another way he had been afflicted. How, and in what way? In not finding Titus. Fearful indeed, and enough to prostrate the soul, is it even to endure trials; but when there is none to comfort and that can help to bear the burden, the tempest becometh greater.
He doth not say that the absence of Titus impeded the salvation of those who were about to come over, nor yet that he neglected those that believed on this account, but that he had no relief, that is, 'I was afflicted, I was distressed for the absence of my brother;' showing how great a matter a brother's absence is; and therefore he departed thence. But what means, "when I came to Troas, for the Gospel?" he saith not simply 'I arrived," but 'so as to preach.' But still, though I had both come for that and found very much to do, (for "a door was opened unto me in the Lord,") I had, saith he, "no relief," not that for this he impeded the work.
Paul mentions Titus here for a purpose. Since he was the one who took the letter to Corinth, Paul wanted the church there to appreciate his worth.
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Summary
The Apostle Paul, in 2 Corinthians 2:13, vividly expresses his profound emotional distress and spiritual agitation upon arriving in Troas, not finding his trusted co-laborer, Titus. This personal revelation underscores the immense pastoral burden Paul carried for the Corinthian church, whose response to his previous, stern letter weighed heavily on his heart. His inner turmoil was so significant that it compelled him to forgo a promising evangelistic opportunity in Troas and depart for Macedonia, driven by an urgent desire for news and reassurance regarding the Corinthians' spiritual state.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is situated within Paul's defense of his apostolic ministry and his explanation for a change in travel plans. In 2 Corinthians 2:12, Paul mentions that "a door was opened unto me of the Lord to preach Christ's gospel." However, his subsequent decision to leave Troas, as detailed in 2 Corinthians 2:13, reveals that his personal anxiety over the Corinthian situation overshadowed this evangelistic opportunity. This passage transitions from Paul's explanation of his travel itinerary (which began in 2 Corinthians 1:15) to his profound relief upon finally meeting Titus in Macedonia, as described in 2 Corinthians 7:5-7. The immediate context highlights Paul's deep pastoral care and the emotional toll of his ministry, setting the stage for his subsequent discussion of forgiveness and reconciliation within the Corinthian community.
Historical & Cultural Context
Paul's journey from Ephesus to Troas, and then to Macedonia, was part of his broader apostolic mission to establish and strengthen churches across the Roman Empire. Corinth, a major Roman colony and bustling trade hub, was known for its diverse population and moral complexities, which often seeped into the church. Paul had previously sent a "painful letter" (likely 1 Corinthians, or an unpreserved letter mentioned in 2 Corinthians 7:8) to address severe issues, including immorality, divisions, and challenges to his authority. Titus had been dispatched to Corinth to assess the church's response. Paul's anxiety was rooted in the uncertainty of this mission, knowing that the spiritual health and even the very existence of the Corinthian church hung in the balance. Travel in the ancient world was arduous and slow, making direct, immediate communication impossible, thus intensifying Paul's wait for Titus and the news he carried.
Key Themes
This verse contributes significantly to several key themes in 2 Corinthians. Firstly, it profoundly illustrates Apostolic Suffering and Vulnerability. Paul, far from being an unfeeling leader, reveals his deep emotional investment and the personal cost of ministry. His "no rest in my spirit" demonstrates the heavy burden of pastoral responsibility and the genuine anguish he felt for his spiritual children. This aligns with the theme of weakness and suffering that Paul frequently highlights as a paradoxically powerful aspect of his ministry (e.g., 2 Corinthians 4:7-12 and 2 Corinthians 12:9-10). Secondly, it emphasizes the Importance of Fellowship and Co-laborers in ministry. Paul's reliance on Titus is evident; Titus was not merely a messenger but a trusted "brother" whose presence and report were crucial for Paul's peace of mind. This highlights the communal nature of Christian service and the necessity of mutual support, a theme also seen in Paul's commendation of other co-workers throughout his epistles. Finally, the verse subtly touches on Divine Providence and Human Agency. Despite Paul's distress and altered plans, God's overarching purpose for the gospel continued to unfold, demonstrating how God works through the very real human experiences—including anxiety and uncertainty—of His servants.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This word signifies "relaxation or (figuratively) relief." It denotes not merely physical repose but a cessation of tension, a state of inner composure or tranquility. Paul's declaration that he had "no rest" indicates a deep-seated spiritual and psychological disquiet, a profound lack of inner peace caused by his anxiety over the Corinthian church and the absence of Titus. It speaks to a troubled spirit rather than mere physical fatigue.
This term refers to "a current of air, i.e. breath... figuratively, a spirit, i.e. (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital principle, mental disposition." In this context, "my spirit" refers to Paul's innermost being, his mind, emotions, and will—the core of his personality. The lack of "rest" in his "spirit" highlights that his distress was not superficial but deeply affected his entire inner man, reflecting a profound spiritual and emotional burden.
This verb means "to find (literally or figuratively), get, obtain, perceive, see." Paul's use of this word emphasizes his active search and expectation for Titus. The fact that he "found not" Titus indicates a frustrated expectation, a failure to connect with the person who held the key to alleviating his intense anxiety. This unmet expectation was the direct catalyst for his continued distress and subsequent change of travel plans.
Verse Breakdown
"I had no rest in my my spirit"
This clause reveals Paul's profound internal turmoil. Despite the "open door" for ministry in Troas mentioned in the preceding verse, Paul's inner state was one of agitation and disquiet. This was not a physical weariness but a spiritual and emotional unrest, indicating the depth of his pastoral burden and sensitivity to the spiritual well-being of the churches.
"because I found not Titus my brother"
This phrase provides the immediate cause of Paul's distress. Titus was Paul's trusted co-worker and messenger, sent to Corinth to assess the church's response to Paul's "painful letter." Paul's anxiety was directly linked to the absence of Titus, from whom he desperately awaited news regarding the Corinthians' repentance and reconciliation. The term "my brother" emphasizes the deep personal bond and reliance Paul had on Titus, highlighting the importance of faithful companions in ministry.
"but taking my leave of them, I went from thence into Macedonia"
This final clause describes Paul's decisive action driven by his unresolved anxiety. Despite the promising evangelistic opportunity in Troas, his inner turmoil compelled him to depart. His departure for Macedonia indicates his hope that he might encounter Titus there, demonstrating the overwhelming priority he placed on resolving the situation in Corinth and receiving reassurance about the church's spiritual health, even over immediate gospel opportunities.
Literary Devices
The verse effectively employs Pathos to convey Paul's deep emotional state. His declaration, "I had no rest in my spirit," is a direct appeal to the reader's emotions, inviting empathy for the apostle's profound anxiety and pastoral burden. This personal revelation humanizes Paul, showing him not as an infallible, detached figure, but as a vulnerable servant deeply invested in the spiritual welfare of his flock. The phrase "my spirit" also functions as Metonymy, where "spirit" stands for Paul's entire inner being—his mind, emotions, and will—emphasizing that his distress permeated his very core. Furthermore, the verse contributes to the Narrative Progression of Paul's journey and his relationship with the Corinthian church. It explains his unexpected departure from Troas and sets the stage for the eventual joyful reunion with Titus in Macedonia, which brings him comfort and good news, as detailed later in the epistle.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Paul's experience in 2 Corinthians 2:13 offers a profound theological insight into the nature of genuine pastoral care and the human dimension of divine service. It demonstrates that ministry is not merely an intellectual or strategic endeavor but a deeply personal and emotionally taxing calling. Paul's "no rest in my spirit" underscores the spiritual burden of caring for souls, reflecting a heart that genuinely grieves over the potential spiritual harm to his beloved Corinthians. This deep concern mirrors the heart of God, who desires reconciliation and repentance, and it highlights that true spiritual leadership involves a profound empathy and emotional investment in the lives of those being served. Paul's reliance on Titus also points to the communal nature of the body of Christ and the necessity of mutual support and fellowship among believers and ministers.
Reflection and Application
Paul's raw vulnerability in 2 Corinthians 2:13 offers a powerful model for believers and leaders today. His "no rest in my spirit" reminds us that genuine spiritual concern often comes with a significant emotional cost. For those in leadership, it validates the deep anxieties and burdens that accompany the responsibility of caring for God's people, encouraging empathy and self-care. For all believers, it underscores the importance of intercessory prayer for our spiritual leaders, recognizing the immense weight they carry. Furthermore, Paul's reliance on Titus highlights the indispensable value of Christian community and trusted relationships. We are not meant to bear our burdens alone, whether in ministry or in daily life. Just as Paul needed Titus, we need brothers and sisters in Christ for support, encouragement, and accountability. Even when faced with distress and unmet expectations, Paul continued to press forward, trusting in God's ultimate plan. This encourages us to persevere in faith, knowing that God can use our periods of unrest and uncertainty to refine our character and deepen our reliance on Him, ultimately working all things for His glory and our good.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was Paul so distressed by not finding Titus?
Paul's distress stemmed from his profound pastoral concern for the Corinthian church. He had sent Titus to Corinth with a "painful letter" (likely 1 Corinthians or another severe letter) to address serious issues, including moral failures and challenges to his apostolic authority. Paul was anxiously awaiting Titus's return with news about the Corinthians' response. Not finding Titus in Troas meant he had no immediate update on the situation, leaving him in a state of intense uncertainty and spiritual agitation regarding the spiritual health and reconciliation of the Corinthian believers. His deep love for them and his apostolic responsibility fueled this "no rest" in his spirit.
What does "no rest in my spirit" mean for Paul?
"No rest in my spirit" (Greek: ouk eschēka anesin tō pneumati mou) signifies a profound internal disquiet, a lack of inner peace and composure, rather than mere physical fatigue. It indicates that Paul's mind, emotions, and innermost being were agitated and troubled. This was a deep psychological and spiritual distress caused by his intense anxiety over the Corinthian church's response to his previous letter and the absence of Titus, his trusted confidant and messenger. It highlights the immense emotional and spiritual burden Paul carried as an apostle and pastor.
Did Paul make the wrong decision by leaving Troas, given the "open door for the gospel"?
While Paul acknowledges an "open door" for the gospel in 2 Corinthians 2:12, his decision to leave Troas was not necessarily "wrong" but rather a demonstration of his holistic approach to ministry. For Paul, the spiritual health and reconciliation of an existing church community were paramount. His overwhelming anxiety about the Corinthians and his need for news from Titus outweighed the immediate evangelistic opportunity. This decision reveals that Paul prioritized the relational and spiritual well-being of his converts, understanding that a healthy church is itself a powerful witness to the gospel. It underscores that ministry is not solely about outward expansion but also about the deep, often costly, work of nurturing and restoring the body of Christ.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Paul's profound distress in 2 Corinthians 2:13, marked by his "no rest in my spirit," finds its ultimate comfort and meaning in Christ. While Paul experienced the very real human anxieties of ministry, Jesus Christ perfectly embodies the empathetic High Priest who understands our weaknesses and burdens. He is the one who, though fully God, took on human flesh and experienced the depths of human sorrow and anguish, even to the point of crying out in Gethsemane, "My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death" (Matthew 26:38). Christ, therefore, fully comprehends the "no rest in my spirit" that Paul felt. Moreover, the comfort Paul eventually finds in Titus's arrival (2 Corinthians 7:6-7) foreshadows the ultimate comfort and peace found in Christ alone. He is our true "rest" (Matthew 11:28), the one who bears our burdens and gives us peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). Paul's anxious search for his brother Titus, a human source of relief, points to our deeper, spiritual need for the presence and assurance of Christ, our ultimate Brother and Savior, who never leaves us nor forsakes us (Hebrews 13:5). In Christ, our restless spirits find their true and eternal repose.