What can we learn about Paul's intentions from "I do not regret it"? Setting the Scene “Even if I caused you sorrow by my letter, I do not regret it—though I did regret it. For I see that my letter caused you sorrow, but only for a while.” (2 Corinthians 7:8) Why Paul Wrote a Painful Letter - The earlier letter confronted sin in the Corinthian church (compare 1 Corinthians 5:1–5). - Paul’s chief aim was the church’s repentance and restoration, not their embarrassment. - He knew genuine love sometimes wounds in order to heal (Proverbs 27:6). What “I Do Not Regret It” Reveals about Paul’s Intentions - Commitment to Truth - Paul valued spiritual integrity over personal comfort. - Galatians 1:10—“If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.” - Confidence in God’s Purposes - Temporary sorrow was a pathway to lasting joy. - Hebrews 12:11—“No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness…” - Pastoral Love - His lack of regret sprang from affection, not harshness (2 Corinthians 2:4). - Genuine care means confronting what endangers the flock (Acts 20:28–31). - Willingness to Share Emotional Cost - He first “did regret it” because he felt their pain; still, he chose obedience over sentiment. - Philippians 2:17 shows the same heart: gladly poured out for their faith. - Expectation of Repentance - He trusted the Spirit to turn sorrow into godly repentance (2 Corinthians 7:9). - 2 Timothy 2:25—gentleness with opponents, “in the hope that God may grant them repentance.” How the Corinthians Responded - Verse 9 notes they experienced “godly sorrow” leading to repentance, not worldly regret. - Their zeal, clearing of themselves, and renewed obedience (7:11) vindicated Paul’s tough love. Takeaways for Today - Loving confrontation is biblical when its goal is repentance and restoration. - Temporary discomfort under truth is far better than comfortable self-deception. - Faithful leaders must speak hard truths without regret when Scripture demands it. - Believers can receive rebuke with humility, trusting God to work grace through the sorrow. |
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