2 Corinthians 7:7

KJV

And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more.

KJV (with Strong's)

And {G1161} not {G3756} by {G1722} his {G846} coming {G3952} only {G3440}, but {G235}{G2532} by {G1722} the consolation {G3874} wherewith {G3739} he was comforted {G3870} in {G1909} you {G5213}, when he told {G312} us {G2254} your {G5216} earnest desire {G1972}, your {G5216} mourning {G3602}, your {G5216} fervent mind {G2205} toward {G5228} me {G1700}; so {G5620} that I {G3165} rejoiced {G5463} the more {G3123}.

Complete Jewish Bible

However, it was not only his arrival which encouraged us, but also how encouraged he was about you, as he told us how you long to see me, how distressed you are over my situation, how zealous you are in my defense — this news made me even happier!

Berean Standard Bible

and not only by his arrival, but also by the comfort he had received from you. He told us about your longing, your mourning, and your zeal for me, so that I rejoiced all the more.

American Standard Version

and not by his coming only, but also by the comfort wherewith he was comforted in you, while he told us your longing, your mourning, your zeal for me; so that I rejoiced yet more.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Paul's profound relief and overflowing joy are captured in this verse, as he recounts the specific comfort brought by Titus. This comfort was not merely from Titus's arrival, but from the detailed report he delivered concerning the Corinthian church's positive response to Paul's previous, stern letter. The news of their earnest desire for reconciliation, their genuine sorrow over past misdeeds, and their renewed fervent loyalty toward Paul transformed his deep anxiety into abundant rejoicing, signaling a significant turning point in their strained relationship.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is the culmination of Paul’s intense emotional journey described in [2 Corinthians 7:5-6](/2_corinthians/7-5-6 "Paul's Distress and Comfort"). Following his departure from Ephesus and his subsequent distress in Macedonia, Paul experienced "no rest in our flesh, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears" ([2 Corinthians 7:5](/2_corinthians/7-5 "Paul's Troubles in Macedonia")). His primary source of internal fear was the uncertainty regarding the Corinthian church's reaction to his previous "severe letter" (likely referenced in [2 Corinthians 2:4](/2_corinthians/2-4 "Paul's Letter Written with Many Tears")). The arrival of Titus, whom God used to comfort Paul ([2 Corinthians 7:6](/2_corinthians/7-6 "God Comforts Paul Through Titus")), initiated the shift from distress to relief. Verse 7 specifically details the content of Titus's report that brought such profound solace, moving beyond merely his presence to the substance of the Corinthians' repentance and renewed affection.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The relationship between Paul and the Corinthian church was fraught with challenges. Paul had founded the church, but false apostles, internal divisions, and moral issues had created significant tension and undermined his apostolic authority. Paul's "severe letter" was a direct attempt to address these problems, and its reception was critical for the church's spiritual health and Paul's ongoing ministry. In the ancient world, letters were often delivered by trusted emissaries, who would also convey verbal messages and report back. Titus served as such an emissary, carrying Paul's letter and then reporting on the church's response. The relief Paul expresses in this verse highlights the personal nature of apostolic ministry and the deep emotional investment apostles had in the churches they founded, far beyond mere administrative oversight.
* **Key Themes:** [2 Corinthians 7](/2_corinthians/7 "2 Corinthians Chapter 7 - Godly Sorrow and Comfort") is saturated with themes of **comfort**, **reconciliation**, and **godly sorrow**. Paul's experience of comfort, which he often links to God's character as the "God of all comfort" ([2 Corinthians 1:3](/2_corinthians/1-3 "God of All Comfort")), is central here. The Corinthians' "mourning" and "earnest desire" directly relate to the theme of **godly sorrow leading to repentance**, which Paul elaborates on in [2 Corinthians 7:10](/2_corinthians/7-10 "Godly Sorrow Produces Repentance"). This sorrow, unlike worldly sorrow, results in salvation and no regret. The ultimate outcome, Paul's rejoicing, underscores the theme of **restoration of relationship** and the profound joy found in **reconciliation** within the body of Christ, a ministry Paul describes as given to believers in [2 Corinthians 5:18-20](/2_corinthians/5-18-20 "The Ministry of Reconciliation").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Consolation (Greek, _paráklēsis'_):** This term (G3874) signifies imploration, hortation, or solace. In this context, it refers to the deep emotional and spiritual relief and encouragement Paul received. It's not just a fleeting comfort but a profound sense of peace and reassurance that alleviated his intense anxiety concerning the Corinthians.
* **Earnest desire (Greek, _epipóthēsis'_):** From _epipotheō_, this word (G1972) denotes a strong longing or yearning. It conveys the Corinthians' sincere and intense wish to be reconciled with Paul, to see him, and to regain his approval and affection. This was a genuine expression of their changed heart, not a superficial apology.
* **Mourning (Greek, _odyrmós'_):** This term (G3602) specifically refers to moaning or lamentation, an outward expression of grief or sorrow. Here, it indicates the Corinthians' deep, heartfelt sorrow over their past sins, their disunity, and the pain they had caused Paul. This was a visible and tangible sign of their repentance, not just an intellectual acknowledgment of wrongdoing.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And not by his coming only,"**: This clause immediately clarifies that while Titus's physical presence was a comfort, it was not the sole or primary source of Paul's relief. It sets up a contrast, emphasizing that the *content* of Titus's report was paramount.
* **"but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you,"**: The true source of Paul's comfort was the "consolation" (Greek, _paráklēsis_) that Titus himself had received *from* the Corinthians. This highlights a chain of comfort: the Corinthians comforted Titus, and Titus's experience then became the basis for Paul's comfort. It implies that the Corinthians had treated Titus well and responded positively to his message.
* **"when he told us your earnest desire,"**: Titus reported the Corinthians' "earnest desire" (Greek, _epipóthēsis_), indicating their strong longing or yearning for Paul. This was a crucial sign of their renewed affection and desire for reconciliation, demonstrating a shift from their previous resistance or indifference.
* **"your mourning,"**: This refers to their "mourning" (Greek, _odyrmós_), signifying their deep sorrow and lamentation over their past conduct, particularly their sin and disunity. This was a clear indication of their repentance, a godly sorrow that grieved over their offense against God and Paul.
* **"your fervent mind toward me;"**: The phrase "fervent mind" (Greek, _zēlos_) denotes zeal, passion, or eagerness. In this context, it speaks to their zealous devotion and renewed loyalty to Paul. It showed a passionate commitment to his apostolic authority and a desire to align themselves with his teaching, contrasting sharply with earlier challenges to his leadership.
* **"so that I rejoiced the more."**: This concluding clause expresses the profound outcome of Titus's report. Paul's joy was not just present, but it "rejoiced the more" (Greek, _mâllon_). This adverb indicates an increased or greater degree of rejoicing, suggesting that the positive news from Corinth exceeded his expectations and completely overwhelmed his previous anxieties.

#### Literary Devices
The verse effectively employs **Metonymy**, where "consolation" (G3874 _paráklēsis_) stands not merely for the act of comforting, but for the comforting *content* of Titus's report. The specific details that follow—earnest desire, mourning, fervent mind—are the actual elements that constitute this "consolation." There is also clear **Emphasis** through repetition and accumulation of emotional terms ("earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind"), building a crescendo of positive news that underscores the profound shift in the Corinthians' attitude and the depth of Paul's resulting joy. The phrase "rejoiced the more" serves as a powerful **Climax**, signaling the overwhelming nature of Paul's relief and the successful resolution of a deeply troubling situation.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse beautifully illustrates the transformative power of genuine repentance and reconciliation within the body of Christ. Paul's intense anxiety underscores the deep pastoral heart of an apostle who genuinely grieved over the spiritual health of the church he founded. His subsequent overflowing joy, however, reveals the immense satisfaction that comes from seeing believers embrace godly sorrow, turn from their sin, and restore strained relationships. This process of repentance, reconciliation, and mutual comfort is not merely a human dynamic but is deeply rooted in God's character as the ultimate source of comfort and the initiator of reconciliation through Christ. It reflects the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in convicting hearts and drawing believers back into right relationship with God and one another, demonstrating the vital interconnectedness and mutual responsibility within the Christian community.

* [2 Corinthians 7:10](/2_corinthians/7-10 "Godly Sorrow Leading to Repentance")
* [2 Corinthians 5:18](/2_corinthians/5-18 "The Ministry of Reconciliation")
* [1 Thessalonians 5:11](/1_thessalonians/5-11 "Mutual Edification and Encouragement")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
2 Corinthians 7:7 offers a powerful testament to the spiritual health that can be restored through genuine repentance and the profound joy found in reconciliation. Paul's journey from deep anxiety to overwhelming joy serves as a model for how leaders and communities can navigate conflict and brokenness. It reminds us that true comfort often comes not from avoiding difficult conversations or ignoring sin, but from confronting issues with love and truth, and then witnessing the Spirit's work in bringing about godly sorrow. For individuals, this verse encourages us to embrace genuine sorrow for our sins, knowing that such grief is a pathway to healing and restoration, not condemnation. For churches, it highlights the immense value of open communication, accountability, and the relentless pursuit of reconciliation, demonstrating that the health of the body is reflected in the quality of its relationships. When we humble ourselves, confess our faults, and seek to make amends, we not only experience personal peace but also bring immense comfort and joy to those we have affected, strengthening the bonds of Christian fellowship and glorifying God.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What anxieties or relational strains in my life or church community might be resolved through genuine repentance and reconciliation, as seen in this passage?**
* **How does Paul's vulnerability in expressing his anxiety and subsequent joy encourage me to be more authentic in my own spiritual journey and relationships?**
* **In what ways can I, or my church, be a source of "consolation" to others, both by our presence and by the positive reports of our spiritual growth and repentance?**

### FAQ
**What was the "severe letter" Paul sent to the Corinthians, and why was he so anxious about their response?**

Answer: The "severe letter" (also referred to as the "letter of tears" in [2 Corinthians 2:4](/2_corinthians/2-4 "Paul's Letter Written with Many Tears")) is believed by many scholars to be a previous letter Paul wrote to the Corinthians, possibly one that is now lost or a portion of [1 Corinthians](/1_corinthians/ "First Corinthians") or even an earlier part of [2 Corinthians](/2_corinthians/ "Second Corinthians") itself. Its exact content is debated, but it was clearly a stern rebuke addressing serious issues within the church, such as immorality, disunity, and challenges to Paul's apostolic authority. Paul was deeply anxious because the letter was a risky move; it could have alienated the Corinthians further, leading to a complete break in their relationship, or it could have brought about the desired repentance and restoration. His anxiety stemmed from his profound pastoral concern for their spiritual well-being and his desire for their reconciliation with him and with God.

**What is the significance of "earnest desire, mourning, and fervent mind" in the Corinthians' response?**

Answer: These three phrases describe the specific and profound nature of the Corinthians' repentance, which brought Paul such comfort. Their "earnest desire" (G1972 _epipóthēsis_) indicated a genuine longing for reconciliation and Paul's presence. Their "mourning" (G3602 _odyrmós_) signified a deep, heartfelt sorrow over their past sins and disunity, a godly sorrow that led to repentance ([2 Corinthians 7:10](/2_corinthians/7-10 "Godly Sorrow Leads to Repentance")). Their "fervent mind" (G2205 _zēlos_) indicated a renewed zeal, passion, and loyalty toward Paul and his apostolic teaching, moving beyond their previous resistance. Together, these expressions confirmed that their response was not superficial but a profound change of heart and attitude, leading to genuine restoration.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 2 Corinthians 7:7 describes Paul's human experience of comfort and joy in reconciliation, it ultimately points to the greater work of Christ. Paul's rejoicing over the Corinthians' repentance mirrors the joy in heaven over one sinner who repents ([Luke 15:7](/luke/15-7 "Joy Over One Sinner Who Repents")). The "consolation" Paul received is a reflection of the ultimate comfort provided by the Holy Spirit, whom Jesus promised as the "Comforter" or "Advocate" ([John 14:16](/john/14-16 "The Promise of the Holy Spirit")). The Corinthians' "mourning" and "earnest desire" for Paul foreshadow the profound sorrow for sin that leads to salvation, a sorrow made redemptive only through the atoning work of Christ on the cross, who bore our sins and offered Himself as the ultimate sacrifice ([1 Peter 2:24](/1_peter/2-24 "Christ Bore Our Sins")). Christ Himself is the great Reconciler, who broke down the dividing wall of hostility and reconciled us to God in one body through the cross ([Ephesians 2:14-16](/ephesians/2-14-16 "Christ Our Peace and Reconciler")). Paul's joy in the restoration of a broken relationship within the church is a foretaste of the perfect, unbroken fellowship believers will experience in Christ's presence, where all tears will be wiped away and true comfort will abound ([Revelation 21:4](/revelation/21-4 "No More Tears or Pain")). Thus, this verse, while personal, serves as a powerful testament to the transforming power of the gospel and the ongoing ministry of reconciliation that flows from Christ's finished work.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Corinthians 5:2

For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven:

Jude 1:3

¶ Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort [you] that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.

2 John 1:4

I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in truth, as we have received a commandment from the Father.

Psalms 30:5

For his anger [endureth but] a moment; in his favour [is] life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy [cometh] in the morning.

Colossians 2:5

For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ.

Judges 2:4

And it came to pass, when the angel of the LORD spake these words unto all the children of Israel, that the people lifted up their voice, and wept.

Judges 2:5

And they called the name of that place Bochim: and they sacrificed there unto the LORD.