2 Corinthians 7:10

For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.

For {G1063} godly {G2316}{G2596} sorrow {G3077} worketh {G2716} repentance {G3341} to {G1519} salvation {G4991} not to be repented of {G278}: but {G1161} the sorrow {G3077} of the world {G2889} worketh {G2716} death {G2288}.

Pain handled in God’s way produces a turning from sin to God which leads to salvation, and there is nothing to regret in that! But pain handled in the world’s way produces only death.

Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation without regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.

For godly sorrow worketh repentance unto salvation, a repentance which bringeth no regret: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.

Context

This verse is a pivotal statement in Paul's second letter to the church in Corinth, following a period of significant tension and reconciliation. Paul had previously sent a "severe letter" (likely what is now lost, or perhaps parts of 1 Corinthians, or a previous section of 2 Corinthians itself) which caused the Corinthians much grief. However, in 2 Corinthians 7:9, Paul expresses joy that their sorrow led to repentance, not despair. Verse 10 builds upon this, distinguishing between two fundamentally different types of sorrow and their respective outcomes, providing profound insight into the nature of true spiritual change.

Key Themes

  • The Nature of True Repentance: The verse clearly defines "godly sorrow" (λύπη κατά Θεόν - lypē kata Theon) as the catalyst for genuine change. This sorrow is not merely regret over being caught or facing consequences, but a deep grief over sin itself, because it offends God. This leads to repentance (μετάνοια - metanoia), which signifies a fundamental change of mind, heart, and direction, resulting in salvation. The phrase "not to be repented of" (ἀμεταμέλητος - ametamelētos) emphasizes the lasting, irrevocable nature of this true transformation.
  • The Danger of Worldly Sorrow: In contrast, Paul highlights "the sorrow of the world" (λύπη του κόσμου - lypē tou kosmou). This is a sorrow rooted in self-pity, regret over consequences rather than the sin itself, or despair that lacks hope in God's mercy. Such sorrow, being devoid of a divine focus, "worketh death." This death can manifest as spiritual deadness, emotional despair, isolation, or even physical destruction, as it offers no path to reconciliation or healing.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV's phrase "not to be repented of" for godly sorrow is a powerful translation of the Greek ametamelētos, meaning "without regret" or "irrevocable." It underscores that the repentance born of godly sorrow is a complete and lasting turning, a decision one will never regret because it leads to life and freedom. Conversely, the "sorrow of the world" leads to "death," using the Greek word θάνατος (thanatos), which signifies not only physical death but also spiritual separation and ultimate ruin, as seen in passages like Romans 6:23.

Practical Application

This verse provides a crucial diagnostic tool for self-examination and spiritual growth. It challenges believers to discern the source and nature of their sorrow when they face failures or sins:

  • Godly Sorrow: This sorrow leads to confession, seeking forgiveness from God and others, a desire for restitution, and a genuine effort to change behavior and alignment with God's will. It is painful but ultimately constructive, leading to humility, healing, and a deeper relationship with God. It produces the fruit of repentance.
  • Worldly Sorrow: This type of sorrow often manifests as blame, self-pity, secrecy, despair, or bitterness. It does not seek reconciliation but rather seeks to avoid consequences or wallow in guilt. It is destructive, often leading to further isolation and spiritual decline.

Understanding this distinction helps us embrace godly sorrow as a gift from God, a painful but necessary step towards spiritual maturity and lasting salvation, recognizing that God's goodness leads us to repentance.

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.

  • Acts 3:19

    Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord;

  • Acts 11:18

    When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.

  • 2 Timothy 2:25

    In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;

  • 2 Timothy 2:26

    And [that] they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

  • 2 Samuel 12:13

    And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the LORD. And Nathan said unto David, The LORD also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die.

  • Luke 15:10

    Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.

  • Luke 18:13

    And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as [his] eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.
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