2 Corinthians 7

1 all filthiness (R.V., “defilement”). Pollution of every kind, in thought and desire, as well as word and act.

2. Receive us. Or, “Make room for us,” i.e., in your hearts. (This is the reading of Nestle’s Greek Test.) Paul here continues his pleading with the Corinthians from vi. 13.

3. I speak not [this] to condemn [you]. I do not say this reproachfully, but in a spirit of love; as I have told you before (iii. 2; vi. 11).

4. Great is my boldness of speech, etc. Or, “Great is my confidence,” etc.

I am filled with comfort. By the arrival of Titus with good tidings from Corinth (6).

5. For when, etc. Rather, “For also when,” etc., referring back to ii. 13. Not only at Troas was I anxious because Titus had not arrived; but also in Macedonia, when I had no relief till he came. In addition to “fears within” my heart for you, I had “oppositions from without.”

8 a letter. Rather, “the letter”; i.e., “my letter,” the former Epistle.

I do not regret, etc. Rather (as R.V.), “I do not regret [it], though I did regret,” for I had feared what might be the effect of my letter.

9 repentance. Change of mind or purpose. 10 godly sorrow. Lit., “sorrow according to God”; i.e., sorrow out of regard to God, and acceptable to Him; as in ver. 9.

not to be repented of. Rather, “which bringeth no regret” (R.V.), whatever it may have cost.

death. The opposite of “salvation.” Such is the sorrow of worldly men, who, regarding only the chastisement, and not the Divine love that chastens them, become only the more alienated from God.

11 carefulness. Rather, “earnestness” or “diligence.”

yea, what indignation, etc.! “Indignation” against sin; “fear” and “desire” or yearning, towards the apostle; “zeal” for God’s glory.

revenge. “Infliction of punishment.” this matter. Either the case of incest (1 Cor. v. 1) or, as some think, the attack on Paul himself (see v. 12, 13, and note).

12 [I did it] not for his cause, etc. It was not the private interest of individuals, but the welfare of the church that caused my interference.

14 in truth. Not deceitfully, as my enemies insinuate.

16 that I have confidence in you. Rather, “that I am encouraged in you.” The word “therefore” should undoubtedly be omitted.