2 Corinthians 2:3

And I wrote this same unto you, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow from them of whom I ought to rejoice; having confidence in you all, that my joy is [the joy] of you all.

And {G2532} I wrote {G1125} this {G5124} same {G846} unto you {G5213}, lest {G3363}, when I came {G2064}, I should have {G2192} sorrow {G3077} from {G575} them of whom {G3739} I {G3165} ought {G1163} to rejoice {G5463}; having confidence {G3982} in {G1909} you {G5209} all {G3956}, that {G3754} my {G1699} joy {G5479} is {G2076} the joy of you {G5216} all {G3956}.

Indeed, this is why I wrote as I did — so that when I came, I would not have to be pained by those who ought to be making me happy; for I had enough confidence in all of you to believe that unless I could be happy, none of you could be happy either.

I wrote as I did so that on my arrival I would not be saddened by those who ought to make me rejoice. I had confidence in all of you, that you would share my joy.

And I wrote this very thing, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow from them of whom I ought to rejoice; having confidence in you all, that my joy is the joy of you all.

In 2 Corinthians 2:3, the Apostle Paul continues to explain the reasoning behind his previous, stern letter to the Corinthian church. This verse highlights his pastoral heart and his desire for a joyful reunion rather than one filled with sadness.

Context

This verse follows Paul's explanation of why he decided not to make a painful visit to Corinth, which would have added to the existing tensions. The "this same" letter refers to a previous communication, often understood to be the one mentioned in 2 Corinthians 7:8, which caused the Corinthians sorrow but ultimately led to their repentance. Paul's intent was not to inflict pain but to correct serious issues, such as the situation with the man who had committed incest (1 Corinthians 5:1-2), so that when he did visit, their fellowship could be characterized by mutual rejoicing.

Key Themes

  • Pastoral Motivation: Paul's primary motivation for writing the severe letter was not anger, but a deep desire for the spiritual health and well-being of the Corinthian believers. He sought to address sin and disorder remotely to prevent a sorrowful encounter upon his arrival.
  • Anticipation of Joy: Paul expresses his hope that his visit would be a time of joy, not grief. His confidence in them suggests an expectation that they would respond positively to his instructions, leading to a restored relationship.
  • Shared Joy in Christ: The phrase "my joy is [the joy] of you all" underscores the profound spiritual bond between Paul and the Corinthians. Their spiritual prosperity and obedience were a source of immense joy for him, a joy he believed they would also share if they were walking rightly with God. This reflects the interconnectedness of believers in the body of Christ, where if one member rejoices, all rejoice (1 Corinthians 12:26).

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "I wrote this same unto you" points to the consistency of Paul's message and his established relationship with the Corinthian church. The word "confidence" (Greek: pepoithēsis) here signifies a deep trust and assurance Paul had in the Corinthians' capacity for repentance and obedience, despite their past failings. It wasn't a naive hope, but a belief in the Spirit's work within them.

Practical Application

This verse offers valuable lessons for relationships within the church and beyond:

  • Difficult Conversations for Good: Sometimes, tough words or necessary correction are given out of love, with the ultimate goal of restoration and joy. Paul's example shows that true love does not shy away from addressing sin or unhealthy patterns.
  • The Goal is Restoration: The purpose of correction should always be to bring about healing, repentance, and renewed fellowship, leading to shared joy.
  • Interconnectedness of Believers: Our spiritual health and actions impact others. When one part of the body of Christ flourishes, it brings joy to the whole. Conversely, sin or division can bring sorrow to those who care deeply for the community.

Paul's desire for a joyful reunion with the Corinthians serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of addressing issues with grace and truth, always aiming for unity and the common good.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Galatians 5:10

    I have confidence in you through the Lord, that ye will be none otherwise minded: but he that troubleth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever he be.

  • 2 Corinthians 8:22

    And we have sent with them our brother, whom we have oftentimes proved diligent in many things, but now much more diligent, upon the great confidence which [I have] in you.

  • 2 Corinthians 7:12

    ¶ Wherefore, though I wrote unto you, [I did it] not for his cause that had done the wrong, nor for his cause that suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear unto you.

  • Philemon 1:21

    Having confidence in thy obedience I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say.

  • 2 Corinthians 7:6

    Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus;

  • 1 Corinthians 4:21

    What will ye? shall I come unto you with a rod, or in love, and [in] the spirit of meekness?

  • 1 Corinthians 5:13

    But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.

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