Read 2 Corinthians 7
http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2%20Corinthians%207&version=NIV
7:2–16 Paul’s primary focus in 2 Corinthians 1–7 was the need to correct the Corinthians’ alignment with the worldly ways taught by the false apostles. But these chapters were written with Paul’s full knowledge of the readers’ repentance. Next, he spoke specifically of that good news. He made a confident plea for reconciliation (7:2–4) based on the Corinthians’ proper repentance from sin (7:5–16).
Paul recounted his separation from and search for Titus (7:5–12; cf. 2:12) and resumed the discussion regarding his travel and ministry itinerary (cf. 2:13). Having left Ephesus, Paul traveled north to Troas, crossed the Aegean to Macedonia, and looked for Titus whom he had earlier sent to Corinth (7:5–7). From Titus Paul received the encouraging report about the Corinthians. Proper sorrow brought repentance without regret (7:8–10) that was centered on God, not self.
The letter that caused the Corinthians sorrow (7:8) is believed by most scholars to be a letter written after 1 Corinthians and delivered by Titus. Others believe it refers to 1 Corinthians. Although the letter brought sorrow, there was genuine repentance on the part of the Corinthians (7:9–10) and other beneficial results (7:11–12).
Paul revealed the results of proper sorrow (7:11–13). Why was Paul comforted? Because the Corinthians’ sorrow at his rebuke had brought about repentance and obedience to God. The one “who did the wrong” (7:12) referred to the immoral man who was disciplined by the church (cf. 1 Cor. 5:1; 2 Cor. 2:6). Because of the Corinthians’ repentance, Paul had full confidence in them (7:13–16). Titus had a very positive ministry with the Corinthians, and they grew in mutual affection for one another.
Discussion & reflection question
When is it more loving to confront someone with their wrongs or sins rather than to ignore them? What attitudes are needed to keep loving confrontation from becoming judgmental? How do you see those attitudes in Paul?
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I think the person has to trust & respect you. Otherwise, it might not work. I think if the person can't help themselves out, then would be OK to step forward. If it is a loved one or close friend I think the right thing to do would be to step in & offer guidance & support. An open attitude. One of loving forgiveness & support - not judgemental or hurtful. Paul is pretty stern & to the point. I think he has their trust & respect.
ReplyDeleteI think it is important to find a way to point out a person's mistakes when those mistakes are causing harm to him or to others. It should be made clear that the "correction" is out of love and not judgment. We don't want to just be busybodies, trying to run his business. This may be risky and difficult, but the effort is worth it if it helps the person to improve his life and his relationship with God and others.
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