2 Corinthians 7:15

Translation
King James Version
And his inward affection is more abundant toward you, whilst he remembereth the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling ye received him.
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KJV (with Strong's)
And G2532 his G846 inward affection G4698 is G2076 more abundant G4056 toward G1519 you G5209, whilst he remembereth G363 the obedience G5218 of you G5216 all G3956, how G5613 with G3326 fear G5401 and G2532 trembling G5156 ye received G1209 him G846.
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Complete Jewish Bible
And his affection for you is all the greater as he remembers how ready you were to obey and how you received him with reverence and respect.
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Berean Standard Bible
And his affection for you is even greater when he remembers that you were all obedient as you welcomed him with fear and trembling.
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American Standard Version
And his affection is more abundantly toward you, while he remembereth the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling ye received him.
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World English Bible Messianic
His affection is more abundantly toward you, while he remembers all of your obedience, how with fear and trembling you received him.
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Geneva Bible (1599)
And his inwarde affection is more aboundant toward you, when he remembreth the obedience of you all, and howe with feare and trembling ye receiued him.
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Young's Literal Translation
and his tender affection is more abundantly toward you, remembering the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling ye did receive him;
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See also
Philippians 2:122 Corinthians 2:91 John 3:17Colossians 3:12Psalms 119:120Isaiah 66:2Hosea 13:1
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In the KJVVerse 28,932 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Reveals the profound increase in Titus's affection for the Corinthian believers, a direct result of their humble and obedient reception of Paul's challenging message. This verse encapsulates the joy and relief felt by Paul and Titus as they witnessed the Corinthians' genuine repentance, which transformed a strained relationship into one of deep mutual love and respect, highlighting the spiritual fruit of teachability and submission to apostolic authority.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: This verse is nestled within Paul's deeply personal and emotionally charged second letter to the Corinthians, specifically in a section (2 Corinthians 7) where he expresses immense relief and joy over Titus's return from Corinth. Paul had previously sent a "severe letter" (likely referenced in 2 Corinthians 2:4 and 2 Corinthians 7:8) addressing various issues, including immorality and challenges to his apostolic authority. Paul had been anxious about the Corinthians' response, even delaying his own travels to await news from Titus (2 Corinthians 2:12-13). Titus's report, detailed in 2 Corinthians 7:5-7, brought immense comfort, confirming the Corinthians' godly sorrow, repentance, and renewed devotion. 2 Corinthians 7:15 specifically highlights Titus's personal experience of their changed hearts, which deepened his own affection for them and validated Paul's difficult pastoral approach.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: The Corinthian church was a complex and often tumultuous community, marked by internal divisions, moral laxity, and a tendency to question apostolic authority. Paul, as their spiritual father, had to navigate these challenges with both firmness and love. In the Greco-Roman world, the concept of "fear and trembling" (phobos kai tromos) was a common idiom, often used in secular contexts to denote a respectful, diligent, and serious approach to a task or a superior, rather than abject terror. It signified a profound reverence for authority and a carefulness in fulfilling obligations. For the Corinthians to receive Titus in this manner demonstrated a significant shift from their previous rebellious attitudes, indicating a genuine recognition of the divine authority behind Paul's message, delivered through his emissary. This humble reception was crucial for restoring the strained relationship between Paul and the church, demonstrating their willingness to submit to apostolic instruction and the Lordship of Christ.
  • Key Themes: This verse powerfully illustrates several key themes central to Paul's ministry and the Christian life. Firstly, it underscores The Fruit of True Repentance, showing how genuine godly sorrow (2 Corinthians 7:10) leads to a transformative change in behavior and attitude, manifesting as "obedience" and a humble reception of correction. Secondly, it highlights the Deepening of Pastoral Bonds, demonstrating how authentic spiritual transformation within a congregation fosters profound affection and trust between spiritual leaders and their flock. Titus's "inward affection" grew precisely because he witnessed their sincere change of heart and submission. Finally, the phrase "fear and trembling" emphasizes the theme of Humility in Receiving God's Word, signifying not a cowering fear, but a profound reverence, earnestness, and seriousness in acknowledging the authority of God's message and His messengers. This attitude is essential for spiritual growth and reconciliation, as seen in Paul's instruction in Philippians 2:12 to "work out your own salvation with fear and trembling."

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

  • inward affection (Greek, splánchnon', G4698): Literally meaning "bowels" or "intestines," this word was used in ancient thought as the seat of deep emotions, particularly compassion, tenderness, and love. Thus, "inward affection" conveys a profound, visceral, heartfelt, and sympathetic love that Titus felt for the Corinthians, indicating a deep emotional bond.
  • more abundant (Greek, perissotérōs', G4056): This adverb means "more superabundantly," "exceedingly," or "much more." It emphasizes the significant increase in Titus's affection, indicating that his positive experience with the Corinthians far surpassed any previous feelings or expectations, growing immensely due to their positive response.
  • received (Greek, déchomai', G1209): This verb means "to receive" in various applications, including to accept, take, or welcome. Here, it implies an active, intentional, and positive reception of Titus, signifying that the Corinthians not only heard his message but embraced it and him with openness and willingness to comply.
  • fear (Greek, phóbos', G5401): This word refers to alarm or fright, but in the idiom "fear and trembling," it signifies a profound reverence, awe, and respect for God's authority and message, rather than mere terror. It suggests a serious and careful consideration of spiritual truth.
  • trembling (Greek, trómos', G5156): Meaning a "quaking with fear," this word, when paired with "fear," forms a common biblical idiom. It denotes a humble earnestness, diligence, and a serious sense of responsibility in approaching a task or spiritual truth, signifying a carefulness born of deep respect.

Verse Breakdown

  • "And his inward affection is more abundant toward you": This clause highlights Titus's deeply personal and growing emotional connection to the Corinthian believers. His "inward affection" (splánchnon) signifies a profound, heartfelt compassion and love, which had become "more abundant" (perissotérōs), indicating a significant increase in his positive feelings towards them as a direct result of his recent visit.
  • "whilst he remembereth the obedience of you all": This phrase provides the reason for Titus's increased affection. It was not merely a general fondness but a specific response to their "obedience" (hypakoḗ). This obedience refers to their compliance with Paul's instructions, particularly those conveyed through Titus, demonstrating their submission to apostolic authority and, by extension, to God's will. The phrase "of you all" emphasizes the collective and widespread nature of this obedience within the church.
  • "how with fear and trembling ye received him": This final clause describes the manner of their obedience and reception. "Fear and trembling" (phóbos kai trómos) is a biblical idiom signifying a profound reverence, humility, earnestness, and diligent care. It means they did not receive Titus casually or defiantly, but with a serious and respectful attitude, acknowledging the gravity of the message he carried and their responsibility to respond appropriately. Their reception was characterized by a humble submission to the truth and to God's messenger.

Literary Devices

The verse employs several significant literary devices. The most prominent is the Idiom "fear and trembling" (phobos kai tromos). This is a common biblical phrase that, as discussed, does not primarily denote terror but rather a profound reverence, humility, and earnest diligence in one's actions, particularly in response to divine authority or a weighty task. Its use here underscores the Corinthians' sincere and serious approach to Paul's correction. Another device is Metonymy in the phrase "inward affection" (splánchnon). By referring to the "bowels" or "intestines," the text uses a physical organ to represent the deep, visceral emotions of compassion and love, where such feelings were believed to originate in ancient physiology. This emphasizes the depth and sincerity of Titus's feelings. Additionally, there is a subtle Contrast implied between Paul's previous anxiety and the current joy and increased affection. The positive report from Titus, leading to his "more abundant" affection, stands in stark contrast to the initial apprehension and sorrow surrounding the "severe letter," highlighting the transformative power of repentance and reconciliation.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

This verse offers profound theological insights into the nature of true repentance, the dynamics of spiritual leadership, and the reciprocal joy found in healthy Christian relationships. The Corinthians' "fear and trembling" in receiving Titus demonstrates that genuine repentance is not merely sorrow for consequences but a humble, earnest submission to God's word and His appointed messengers. This posture of obedience allows for divine grace to work, leading to reconciliation and the strengthening of spiritual bonds. Titus's "more abundant inward affection" is a testament to the fact that when a flock responds with humility and obedience, it deepens the love and commitment of their spiritual leaders, fostering a mutually edifying relationship built on trust and shared spiritual growth. It underscores that God delights in a humble and obedient heart, and such a heart brings joy not only to God but also to those who labor for the Gospel.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

2 Corinthians 7:15 serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of humility and obedience within the Christian community. For believers, it challenges us to examine our own hearts: how do we receive correction, whether from Scripture, spiritual leaders, or even fellow believers? Do we respond with defensiveness or with the "fear and trembling" of a heart eager to align with God's will? This verse shows that such a humble and teachable spirit not only facilitates our own spiritual growth but also brings immense encouragement and joy to those who labor in love for our souls. It highlights that genuine repentance is a relational act, restoring not only our fellowship with God but also our bonds with the body of Christ. For those in leadership, it offers the profound encouragement that despite the difficulties of pastoral ministry, witnessing true spiritual transformation and humble obedience in those they serve is a source of deep, abiding affection and joy, reinforcing the sacred trust between shepherd and flock.

Questions for Reflection

  • How do I typically respond when I receive correction or a challenging word from God's messengers or His Word? Is it with "fear and trembling" (reverence and humility) or with resistance?
  • In what areas of my life might God be calling me to a deeper "obedience" and a more humble "reception" of His truth?
  • How does my response to spiritual guidance impact my relationships with spiritual leaders and fellow believers?
  • What does Titus's "inward affection" teach me about the reciprocal nature of love and trust within the body of Christ?

FAQ

What does "inward affection" mean in this context?

Answer: The phrase "inward affection" translates the Greek word splánchnon (G4698), which literally refers to the internal organs or "bowels." In ancient Greek thought, these organs were considered the seat of deep emotions, particularly compassion, tenderness, and strong affection. Therefore, when Paul says Titus's "inward affection" was "more abundant," he means that Titus felt a profound, visceral, and heartfelt love and sympathy for the Corinthian believers. It signifies a deep emotional bond and a genuine, overflowing compassion that grew significantly due to their positive response to his ministry.

What is the significance of "fear and trembling" in this verse?

Answer: The phrase "fear and trembling" (Greek: phóbos G5401 and trómos G5156) is a common biblical idiom that does not primarily denote cowering terror or paralyzing fright. Instead, it signifies a profound reverence, humility, earnestness, and diligent care in approaching a task or receiving spiritual truth. In the context of 2 Corinthians 7:15, it indicates that the Corinthians did not receive Titus or Paul's message casually or defiantly. Rather, they responded with a serious, respectful, and humble attitude, acknowledging the authority of God's message and their responsibility to obey it. It reflects a teachable spirit and a sincere desire to align their lives with God's will, similar to how Paul uses the phrase in Philippians 2:12 regarding working out one's salvation.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

The humble obedience and reverent reception of Titus by the Corinthians, which deepened his "inward affection" for them, beautifully foreshadows and reflects the ultimate Christ-centered fulfillment of reconciliation and submission. Jesus Christ is the quintessential example of obedience, who, "though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross" (Philippians 2:6-8). Our "fear and trembling" in receiving God's word, as exemplified by the Corinthians, is ultimately a response to the authority and grace of Christ. He is the one who, with profound "inward affection" (compassion), welcomes all who come to Him in humility, saying, "Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28). The reconciliation between Paul and the Corinthians, facilitated by their humble obedience, mirrors the grander reconciliation that God accomplished through Christ, "who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation" (2 Corinthians 5:18). Thus, the Corinthians' response to Titus becomes a paradigm for how humanity is called to receive the Gospel of Christ: with humble submission, reverent awe, and a willingness to obey, leading to a deepening of affection and an unbreakable bond with the Savior.

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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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AmbrosiasterAD 384
Paul is saying that Titus’s mind and affection are concerned with them, because he has seen their progress, for the mind of a saint is concerned with everything that is good. Commentary on Paul’s Epistles.
John ChrysostomAD 407
Homily 16 on 2 Corinthians
"And his inward affection is more abundant toward you." What follows is in commendation of him, as exceedingly consumed with love and attached to them. And he said not 'his love.' Then that he may not appear to be flattering, he everywhere mentions the causes of his affection; in order that he may, as I said, both escape the imputation of flattery and the more encourage them by making the praise redound unto them, and by showing that it was they who had infused into him the beginning and ground of this so great love. For having said, "his inward affection is more abundant toward you;" he added, "Whilst he remembereth the obedience of you all." Now this both shows that Titus was grateful to his benefactors, seeing he had returned, having them all in his heart, and continually remembereth them, and beareth them on his lips and in his mind; and also is a greater distinction to the Corinthians, seeing that so vanquished they sent him away. Then he mentions their obedience also, magnifying their zeal: wherefore also he addeth these words, "How with fear and trembling ye received him." Not with love only, but also with excessive honor. Seest thou how he bears witness to a twofold virtue in them, both that they loved him as a father and had feared him as a ruler, neither for fear dimming love, nor for love relaxing fear. He expressed this also above, "That ye sorrow after a godly sort, what earnest care it wrought in you; yea what fear, yea what longing."
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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