2 Corinthians 7:14

Translation
King James Version
For if I have boasted any thing to him of you, I am not ashamed; but as we spake all things to you in truth, even so our boasting, which I made before Titus, is found a truth.
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KJV (with Strong's)
For G3754 if I have boasted G2744 any thing G1536 to him G846 of G5228 you G5216, I am G2617 not G3756 ashamed G2617; but G235 as G5613 we spake G2980 all things G3956 to you G5213 in G1722 truth G225, even G2532 so G3779 our G2257 boasting G2746, which G3588 I made before G1909 Titus G5103, is found G1096 a truth G225.
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Complete Jewish Bible
For I had boasted somewhat about you to him, and now I have not been made to look foolish. On the contrary, just as everything we have said to you is true, so too our boasting in front of Titus has proved true.
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Berean Standard Bible
Indeed, I was not embarrassed by anything I had boasted to him about you. But just as everything we said to you was true, so our boasting to Titus has proved to be true as well.
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American Standard Version
For if in anything I have gloried to him on your behalf, I was not put to shame; but as we spake all things to you in truth, so our glorying also which I made before Titus was found to be truth.
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World English Bible Messianic
For if in anything I have boasted to him on your behalf, I was not disappointed. But as we spoke all things to you in truth, so our glorying also which I made before Titus was found to be truth.
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Geneva Bible (1599)
For if that I haue boasted any thing to him of you, I haue not bene ashamed: but as I haue spoken vnto you all things in trueth, euen so our boasting vnto Titus was true.
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Young's Literal Translation
because if anything to him in your behalf I have boasted, I was not put to shame; but as all things in truth we did speak to you, so also our boasting before Titus became truth,
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See also
2 Corinthians 8:242 Corinthians 7:42 Thessalonians 1:42 Corinthians 7:62 Corinthians 1:182 Corinthians 1:202 Corinthians 10:8
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In the KJVVerse 28,931 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

The Apostle Paul expresses profound relief and affirmation in 2 Corinthians 7:14, declaring that his confidence and positive reports about the Corinthian believers, which he had shared with Titus, were unequivocally proven true. This verse marks a joyful culmination of a period of anxiety, as the Corinthians' genuine repentance and obedience validated Paul's apostolic integrity and the transformative power of the gospel message he preached among them.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: This verse is situated within Paul's deeply personal and emotionally charged defense of his apostleship and ministry to the Corinthian church. Following a period of intense conflict and a "sorrowful letter" (likely an earlier, severe letter, not 1 Corinthians, that is now lost), Paul had sent Titus to Corinth to gauge their response. Paul's anxiety over their reaction was immense, leading to restlessness until he met Titus in Macedonia. The preceding verses, particularly 2 Corinthians 7:6-7, describe Paul's immense comfort and joy upon Titus's return with news of the Corinthians' "godly sorrow" and repentance. Therefore, 2 Corinthians 7:14 serves as a triumphant declaration, a final vindication of Paul's trust in them and the truthfulness of his ministry, confirming that his earlier boasting about their character to Titus was not in vain but was found to be a reality.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: The Corinthian church was notoriously problematic, plagued by divisions, immorality, and challenges to Paul's authority. Paul, as an apostle, faced constant scrutiny and accusations, including charges of being unreliable or manipulative. In the Greco-Roman world, the integrity and consistency of a speaker were paramount for credibility. Paul's sending of Titus, a trusted co-worker, was a common practice for apostles to maintain communication and oversight. The Corinthians' response to Paul's severe letter, demonstrating genuine repentance rather than defiance, was crucial not only for their spiritual health but also for Paul's vindication in the eyes of his critics and for reinforcing his legitimate apostolic authority. Their actions proved that Paul's assessment of their potential for repentance, and his subsequent boasting about them, was grounded in reality, upholding his honor and the truthfulness of his message.
  • Key Themes: 2 Corinthians 7:14 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the letter. Firstly, it underscores the theme of Apostolic Vindication and Integrity. Paul's ministry was often questioned, and this verse affirms that his words, whether spoken directly to the Corinthians or about them, were consistently truthful and reliable. Secondly, it highlights the Transformative Power of Godly Sorrow and Repentance. The Corinthians' positive response to Paul's painful admonition, leading to the "godly sorrow that produces a repentance that leads to salvation" as described in 2 Corinthians 7:10, is the direct cause for Paul's boasting being found true. This demonstrates that true spiritual change is observable and validates the efforts of those who minister. Finally, the verse speaks to the Joy and Comfort in Ministry. Paul's anxiety turned to profound joy, illustrating the deep emotional investment of a true shepherd in the spiritual well-being of his flock, and the immense satisfaction that comes from seeing believers walk in truth and obedience.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • Boasted (Greek, kaucháomai', G2744): This term (G2744) means "to vaunt (in a good or a bad sense):--(make) boast, glory, joy, rejoice." In this context, Paul's "boasting" (G2746, kaúchēsis) is not arrogant self-promotion but a justifiable confidence and expression of hope in the spiritual progress and character of the Corinthian believers. It reflects his genuine affection and pastoral pride in their responsiveness to correction, which he had shared with Titus.
  • Truth (Greek, alḗtheia', G225): Derived from G225, meaning "truth:--true, X truly, truth, verity." The repeated use of "truth" in this verse emphasizes sincerity, reality, and reliability. Paul's communication, whether his direct words to the Corinthians or his positive reports about them to Titus, was not based on flattery or wishful thinking but on genuine spiritual reality, which was subsequently confirmed by their actions.
  • Is found (Greek, gínomai', G1096): Meaning "to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e. (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.):--arise, be assembled, be(-come, -fall, -have self), be brought (to pass), (be) come (to pass), continue, be divided, draw, be ended, fall, be finished, follow, be found, be fulfilled, + God forbid, grow, happen, have, be kept, be made, be married, be ordained to be, partake, pass, be performed, be published, require, seem, be showed, X soon as it was, sound, be taken, be turned, use, wax, will, would, be wrought." Here, it signifies that Paul's boasting was not merely an assertion but was demonstrated or proven to be true by the Corinthians' actions. It became a reality.

Verse Breakdown

  • "For if I have boasted any thing to him of you, I am not ashamed": Paul begins by recalling his earlier expressions of confidence concerning the Corinthians, which he had shared with Titus. The phrase "I am not ashamed" signifies that his confidence was not misplaced, nor were his words proven false. This directly contrasts with the potential for embarrassment or humiliation if the Corinthians had failed to respond positively.
  • "but as we spake all things to you in truth": This clause emphasizes the consistent integrity of Paul's communication with the Corinthians. His previous words, whether admonitions or teachings, were always grounded in sincerity and reality, not deception or manipulation. This establishes a baseline of truthfulness for his entire ministry among them.
  • "even so our boasting, which [I made] before Titus, is found a truth": This is the triumphant conclusion. Just as his direct communication to them was true, so too was his positive report about them to Titus. Their repentance and obedience served as the irrefutable evidence, validating Paul's confidence and proving his words to be genuine and reliable. The "boasting" was not empty rhetoric but a prophetic declaration that was fulfilled.

Literary Devices

Paul employs several literary devices in 2 Corinthians 7:14 to underscore his message. The most prominent is Repetition, specifically the double emphasis on "truth" (Greek: alētheia). This repetition serves to highlight the unwavering integrity of Paul's ministry and the genuine reality of the Corinthians' spiritual transformation. It acts as a powerful affirmation, contrasting with any accusations of deceit or inconsistency. There is also an element of Vindication, as Paul's words and confidence are explicitly "found a truth," demonstrating his authenticity and the effectiveness of his apostolic labor. This vindication brings a sense of Relief and Triumph, marking the end of a period of intense anxiety for the apostle. Furthermore, the verse functions as a form of Apostolic Apologia (defense), where Paul implicitly defends his character and ministry by showing that his words, even those spoken in confidence to a third party like Titus, were consistently reliable and grounded in reality.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

This verse beautifully illustrates the divine principle that God honors truth and genuine repentance, and He vindicates His faithful servants. Paul's relief and joy are not merely personal but reflect the joy of God over a repentant people. It underscores that true spiritual growth and obedience are tangible and bring glory to God, validating the ministry that leads people to such transformation. The integrity of the messenger, rooted in truthfulness, is paramount for effective ministry, mirroring God's own unchangeable truthfulness.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

2 Corinthians 7:14 serves as a powerful reminder for believers today about the profound importance of integrity in our words and actions, particularly within the community of faith. Just as Paul's boasting was "found a truth" because of the Corinthians' genuine repentance, our lives should consistently reflect the truth of the Gospel we profess. This means living authentically, allowing our walk to align with our talk, so that our witness to others, both believers and unbelievers, is credible and compelling. Furthermore, this verse calls us to cultivate a spirit of genuine repentance when we err, understanding that such humility not only restores our relationship with God but also brings joy and validation to those who have invested in our spiritual growth. It encourages us to find deep satisfaction and encouragement in witnessing the transformative power of God at work in the lives of others, celebrating their spiritual victories as our own.

Questions for Reflection

  • In what areas of my life do my words and actions consistently align, demonstrating integrity and truthfulness?
  • How do I respond when I am corrected or admonished? Do I exhibit a "godly sorrow" that leads to genuine repentance and change?
  • What joy do I experience when I witness true spiritual growth or repentance in others, and how can I better encourage such transformation?
  • How can my life be a "truth" that validates the Gospel to those around me, just as the Corinthians' actions validated Paul's boasting?

FAQ

What was Paul "boasting" about concerning the Corinthians?

Answer: Paul's "boasting" was not arrogant self-praise but an expression of confidence and hope in the Corinthians' spiritual character and their potential for a positive response to his earlier, severe letter. He had likely spoken to Titus about their capacity for repentance, their underlying love for him, and their commitment to the truth of the gospel, even amidst their struggles. When Titus returned with news of their genuine godly sorrow and obedience, Paul's confidence was vindicated; his positive assessment of them was "found a truth." This reflects a pastoral pride and joy in the spiritual fruit borne by those he ministered to.

What is the significance of "truth" being mentioned twice in this verse?

Answer: The repetition of "truth" (Greek: alētheia) emphasizes the unwavering integrity and reliability of Paul's communication and ministry. Firstly, it highlights that Paul's direct words to the Corinthians were always spoken "in truth," meaning with sincerity, honesty, and alignment with reality. Secondly, it affirms that his boasting about them to Titus was also "found a truth," meaning it was substantiated by their actions. This double emphasis serves to counter any accusations of deception or inconsistency against Paul, firmly establishing his credibility and the genuine nature of the spiritual transformation in Corinth.

How does this verse relate to Paul's overall relationship with the Corinthian church?

Answer: This verse marks a significant turning point and a moment of reconciliation in Paul's often tumultuous relationship with the Corinthian church. The earlier parts of 2 Corinthians reveal deep tension, pain, and a challenge to Paul's apostolic authority. 2 Corinthians 7:14 signals that the difficult period has passed, and a measure of trust and mutual respect has been restored. Their repentance brought immense comfort to Paul, validating his pastoral efforts and reaffirming their spiritual bond. It shows that despite conflict, genuine love and truth can prevail, leading to renewed fellowship and shared joy.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

2 Corinthians 7:14 finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Christ, who is the embodiment of all truth and the perfect example of God's unwavering integrity. Paul's vindication, where his words were "found a truth," powerfully echoes the divine validation of Jesus's own ministry and claims. Christ consistently spoke the truth, and His life, death, and resurrection were the ultimate demonstration that all of God's promises and His very character are "Amen" in Him (2 Corinthians 1:20). Just as the Corinthians' repentance validated Paul's boasting, Christ's perfect obedience and sacrificial work on the cross validated God's plan of salvation, proving His love and justice to be utterly true. The "truth" found in the Corinthian church's transformation is a reflection of the transformative power of the Spirit of Christ, who enables believers to walk in newness of life (Romans 6:4). Ultimately, our own lives, when lived in obedience to the Gospel, become a testament to the truth of Christ, allowing God's glory to be seen and His faithfulness to be affirmed through us, just as Paul's joy was complete when his confidence in the Corinthians was proven true in Christ.

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Commentary on 2 Corinthians 7 verses 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.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 12–16. Public domain.
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John ChrysostomAD 407
Homily 16 on 2 Corinthians
"For if in anything I have gloried to him on your behalf." It is high praise when the teacher boasted, for he saith, "I was not put to shame." I therefore rejoiced, because ye showed yourselves to be amended and proved my words by your deeds. So that the honor accruing to me was twofold; first, in that ye had made progress; next, in that I was not found to fall short of the truth. "But as we spake always to you in truth, so our glorying also which I made before Titus was found to be truth." Here he alludes to something further. As we spake all things among you in truth, (for it is probable that he had also spoken to them much in praise of this man,) so also, what we said of you to Titus has been proved true.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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