TRV
Besides our own encouragement, we had the even greater joy of seeing how happy Titus was, because all of you set his mind at rest.
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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 7:12–16.
In these verses the apostle endeavours to comfort the Corinthians, upon whom his admonitions had had such good effect. And in order thereto, 1. He tells them he had a good design in his former epistle, which might be thought severe, Co2 7:12. It was not chiefly for his cause that did the wrong, not only for his benefit, much less merely that he should be punished; nor was it merely for his cause that suffered wrong, namely, the injured father, and that he might have what satisfaction could be given him; but it was also to manifest his great and sincere concern and care for them, for the whole church, lest that should suffer by letting such a crime, and the scandal thereof, remain among them without due remark and resentment. 2. He acquaints them with the joy of Titus as well as of himself upon the account of their repentance and good behaviour. Titus was rejoiced, and his spirit refreshed, with their comfort, and this comforted and rejoiced the apostle also (Co2 7:13); and, as Titus was comforted while he was with them, so when he remembered his reception among them, expressing their obedience to the apostolical directions, and their fear and trembling at the reproofs that were given them, the thoughts of these things inflamed and increased his affections to them, Co2 7:15. Note, Great comfort and joy follow upon godly sorrow. As sin occasions general grief, so repentance and reformation occasion general joy. Paul was glad, and Titus was glad, and the Corinthians were comforted, and the penitent ought to be comforted; and well may all this joy be on earth, when there is joy in heaven over one sinner that repenteth. 3. He concludes this whole matter with expressing the entire confidence he had in them: He was not ashamed of his boasting concerning them to Titus (Co2 7:14); for he was not disappointed in his expectation concerning them, which he signified to Titus, and he could now with great joy declare what confidence he still had in them as to all things, that he did not doubt of their good behaviour for the time to come. Note, It is a great comfort and joy to a faithful minister to have to do with a people whom he can confide in, and who he has reason to hope will comply with every thing he proposes to them that is for the glory of God, the credit of the gospel, and their advantage.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
3 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.
Paul has been comforted by the fact that those whom he rebuked wished to mend their ways. But on learning from Titus that they were experiencing pain on account of their error, he was consoled even more and filled with joy, because their resolve had been confirmed by their behavior.
See again how he exalts their praises, and showeth their love. For having said, 'I was pleased that my Epistle wrought so much and that ye gained so much,' for "I rejoice," he saith, "not that ye were made sorry, but that ye were made sorry unto repentance;" and having shown his own love, for he saith, "Though I wrote unto you, I wrote not for his cause that did the wrong, nor for his cause that suffered the wrong, but that our care for you might be made manifest to you:" again he mentioneth another sign of their good will, which bringeth them great praise and showeth the genuineness of their affection. For, "in your comfort," he saith, "we joyed the more exceedingly for the joy of Titus." And yet this is no sign of one that loveth them exceedingly; rejoicing rather for Titus than for them. 'Yes,' he replies, 'it is, for I joyed not so much for his cause as for yours.' Therefore also he subjoins the reason, saying, "because his bowels were refreshed by you all." He said not, 'he,' but "his bowels;" that is, 'his love for you.' And how were they refreshed? "By all." For this too is a very great praise.
"Therefore we have been comforted." Since we both showed our care for you and have been wholly successful. As he said also in another place, "Now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord;" and again, "For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? are not even ye?" For this is life, this comfort, this consolation to a teacher possessed of understanding; the growth of his disciples. For nothing doth so declare him that beareth rule as paternal affection for the ruled. For begetting alone constitutes not a father; but after begetting, also loving. But if where nature is concerned there is so great need of love, much more where grace is concerned. In this way were all the ancients distinguished.
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Summary
The Apostle Paul expresses profound relief and overflowing joy upon receiving a positive report from Titus concerning the Corinthian church's repentance and spiritual restoration. This verse beautifully illustrates the deep interconnectedness of the Christian community, where the comfort and spiritual well-being of one member or group directly contributes to the joy and refreshment of others, particularly those in pastoral leadership. It underscores Paul's genuine pastoral heart and the mutual encouragement that flows from reconciliation and spiritual health within the body of Christ.
Context
Literary Context
This verse serves as a climactic expression of Paul's relief following a period of intense anxiety and uncertainty. Chapters 2 through 7 of 2 Corinthians deal extensively with Paul's relationship with the Corinthian church, particularly after he had sent a "painful letter" (likely referenced in 2 Corinthians 2:4 and 2 Corinthians 7:8) addressing their misconduct and challenging their loyalty. Paul was so distressed awaiting news from Titus that he could find no rest in Troas, feeling "troubled on every side" (2 Corinthians 7:5). The arrival of Titus in Macedonia with news of the Corinthians' genuine sorrow, repentance, and longing for Paul (as detailed in 2 Corinthians 7:6-11) transformed Paul's distress into overwhelming comfort and joy. Verse 13 specifically articulates how this comfort was rooted in the Corinthians' own comfort and their refreshing of Titus's spirit, highlighting the reciprocal nature of spiritual well-being.
Historical & Cultural Context
The city of Corinth was a bustling, cosmopolitan port city, known for its wealth, diverse population, and moral laxity. The church there was established by Paul during his second missionary journey (Acts 18) but was plagued by internal divisions, moral issues, and challenges to Paul's apostolic authority. The "painful letter" was a significant attempt by Paul to address these deeply rooted problems. In the Greco-Roman world, letters were often delivered by trusted emissaries who would also provide oral reports, making Titus's mission crucial and his return highly anticipated. The concept of "comfort" (paraklesis) was vital in a world often marked by hardship and persecution, and the mutual encouragement within a community was a powerful counter-cultural force, demonstrating the unique bond of Christian fellowship.
Key Themes
This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in 2 Corinthians. Firstly, it underscores the theme of Divine Comfort in Affliction, demonstrating how God comforts Paul through the positive response of the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 1:3-4). Secondly, it highlights the Authenticity of Paul's Apostolic Ministry, showing his deep emotional investment and genuine love for the churches he founded, refuting accusations that he was aloof or self-serving. His joy is not merely for a successful outcome but for the spiritual health and repentance of the believers, reflecting a true Pastoral Heart. Thirdly, it emphasizes the Interdependence of the Body of Christ, where the spiritual state of one member or group profoundly impacts others. The Corinthians' comfort brings Paul comfort, and their refreshing of Titus brings Paul joy, illustrating the principle that "if one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together" (1 Corinthians 12:26). Finally, it speaks to the Power of Repentance and Reconciliation, as the comfort and joy experienced are the direct result of the Corinthians' turning away from their sin and their renewed relationship with Paul.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This verb means "to call near," implying an invitation, invocation, or consolation. It encompasses beseeching, exhorting, and comforting. Here, it signifies the deep solace and relief Paul received. The repetition of this root word (verb "comforted" and noun "comfort") emphasizes the profound sense of ease and encouragement that settled over Paul and his companions.
This strong adverbial phrase combines "more superabundantly" (G4056) with "more (in a greater degree) or rather" (G3123). Together, they convey an intensity of joy that goes beyond mere comfort. It signifies an overwhelming, even overflowing, increase in their gladness, indicating that Titus's good report not only alleviated Paul's anxiety but also brought an extra measure of delight.
This verb means "to repose," "to take ease," or "to rest." By implication, it means "to refresh." It suggests a cessation from toil or burden, leading to renewal. For Titus, who carried the heavy burden of Paul's stern letter and the uncertainty of the Corinthians' response, this "refreshing" points to a deep spiritual and emotional renewal, a sense of rest and relief from the anxieties of his mission, brought about by the Corinthians' positive reception.
Verse Breakdown
"Therefore we were comforted in your comfort:"
Paul begins by drawing a conclusion ("Therefore") from the preceding positive news brought by Titus. The "we" refers to Paul and his companions (likely Timothy, as mentioned in 2 Corinthians 1:1). Their comfort was directly linked to, and indeed found in, the comfort experienced by the Corinthians themselves. This highlights a profound spiritual empathy and solidarity: the Corinthians' repentance and subsequent peace brought them comfort, and this, in turn, became the source of Paul's own comfort. It's a powerful statement about mutual spiritual well-being within the body of Christ.
"yea, and exceedingly the more joyed we for the joy of Titus,"
This clause introduces an even greater dimension of Paul's emotional response. Not only were they comforted, but they "exceedingly the more joyed." The intensity of this joy surpassed their comfort. The source of this heightened joy was "the joy of Titus." Titus's personal experience of gladness, evident in his report, further amplified Paul's own delight. This shows Paul's deep affection for his co-worker and his ability to rejoice in the joy of others.
"because his spirit was refreshed by you all."
This final clause provides the reason for Titus's joy and, consequently, Paul's amplified joy. Titus's "spirit" (his inner being, his disposition, his very soul) was "refreshed" by the Corinthians. This refreshing implies a profound sense of relief, rest, and renewal for Titus after the arduous and potentially stressful mission of delivering Paul's stern letter. The Corinthians, by their repentance and positive reception, provided this spiritual and emotional rest, demonstrating their love and respect for Paul's envoy and, by extension, for Paul himself.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several effective literary devices. Repetition is prominent with the root word for "comfort" (G3870 parakaléō and G3874 paráklēsis). Paul states, "we were comforted in your comfort," which not only emphasizes the theme but also underscores the reciprocal nature of their shared experience. This is a form of polyptoton, where different grammatical forms of the same root word are used to create emphasis and connection. Furthermore, the phrase "exceedingly the more joyed" utilizes hyperbole or intense amplification to convey the overwhelming nature of Paul's joy, suggesting it went beyond mere relief to an exuberant delight. The imagery of Titus's "spirit was refreshed" serves as a metaphor for spiritual and emotional renewal, likening the restoration of his inner being to the physical refreshment one experiences after toil or exhaustion. This vivid imagery helps the reader grasp the profound impact the Corinthians' response had on Titus and, consequently, on Paul.
Theological and Thematic Connections
This verse profoundly illustrates the theological truth of the interconnectedness and mutual dependence within the body of Christ. Paul's experience of comfort and joy, directly stemming from the Corinthians' spiritual well-being and Titus's refreshment, underscores that Christian fellowship is not merely a social gathering but a deep spiritual bond where the health and struggles of one member genuinely affect all others. It highlights the divine design for believers to bear one another's burdens and share in one another's joys, reflecting the very nature of God, who is himself a community of persons. This mutual comfort and joy are fruits of the Spirit, demonstrating the power of reconciliation and repentance to restore relationships and bring spiritual flourishing, not just to individuals but to the entire community.
Reflection and Application
The profound comfort and overflowing joy experienced by Paul in 2 Corinthians 7:13 serve as a powerful reminder of the deep spiritual bonds that unite believers. It challenges us to consider how genuinely invested we are in the spiritual health and well-being of our fellow church members. Are we quick to rejoice when we hear of another's repentance, growth, or restoration? Do we actively seek to be a source of refreshment and encouragement to those who serve in ministry, understanding the burdens they often carry? This verse calls us to cultivate a community where empathy is not just a sentiment but a lived reality, where our actions—whether of repentance, forgiveness, or humble service—have ripple effects that bring comfort and joy throughout the body. It encourages us to pursue reconciliation diligently, knowing that its fruit is profound peace and renewed vigor for all involved.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
What was the "comfort" that Paul received from the Corinthians?
The comfort Paul received was primarily the relief and solace that came from hearing Titus's report that the Corinthian church had genuinely repented of their previous misconduct and had responded positively to Paul's stern letter. This meant that their relationship was being restored, their spiritual health was improving, and Paul's apostolic authority was being reaffirmed. This news alleviated Paul's deep anxiety and distress, turning his sorrow into profound relief and joy, as detailed in 2 Corinthians 7:6-11.
Why was Paul "exceedingly the more joyed" by Titus's joy?
Paul's joy was magnified because it wasn't just his own comfort, but also the evident joy of Titus. Titus had undertaken a difficult and sensitive mission to Corinth, delivering Paul's "painful letter" and waiting for the church's response. The fact that Titus returned not only with good news but also personally "refreshed" and joyful indicated the profound success of his mission and the genuine repentance of the Corinthians. Paul's deep affection for Titus and his pastoral heart meant that Titus's personal well-being and gladness further amplified Paul's own delight, demonstrating the reciprocal nature of joy within Christian fellowship.
What does it mean that Titus's "spirit was refreshed by you all"?
The phrase "his spirit was refreshed by you all" (Greek: anapaúō) means that Titus experienced a deep sense of rest, renewal, and relief from the burdens and anxieties of his mission. He had likely been carrying a heavy emotional and spiritual weight while awaiting the Corinthians' response to Paul's severe admonition. The Corinthians, by their genuine repentance, their obedience, and their loving reception of Titus, provided him with this much-needed spiritual and emotional rest. It signifies that their positive response invigorated and encouraged Titus, allowing him to experience peace and renewal after a challenging task.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
While 2 Corinthians 7:13 speaks to the comfort and joy experienced within the Christian community, its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning are found in Christ. The mutual comfort and refreshing described here are a direct outflow of the new life and unity that believers share in Christ. Jesus himself is the ultimate source of comfort, the "God of all comfort" (2 Corinthians 1:3). He promised the Holy Spirit as the "Comforter" or "Helper" (John 14:26), who enables believers to extend comfort and refreshment to one another. The reconciliation that brought joy to Paul and Titus is a reflection of the ultimate reconciliation achieved by Christ on the cross, bridging the chasm between God and humanity (2 Corinthians 5:18-19). Furthermore, the "refreshing" of Titus's spirit foreshadows the spiritual rest and renewal that Christ offers to all who are weary and burdened (Matthew 11:28-30). In Christ, the body of believers is knit together, so that the joy and comfort of one member truly become the joy and comfort of all, demonstrating the Spirit-empowered reality of His unified church, living out the love and reconciliation He accomplished.