What is the meaning of 2 Corinthians 7:13? On account of this, we are encouraged. • “This” points back to what Paul has just reported: the Corinthian believers responded to his earlier letter with genuine sorrow that produced repentance (2 Corinthians 7:9–10). • Their change of heart comforts Paul. The God who “comforts the downcast” (2 Corinthians 7:6) used their repentance to lift his spirits, just as He earlier comforted Elijah by showing him a faithful remnant (1 Kings 19:18). • Encouragement flows naturally when believers see fruit from difficult ministry efforts (Philippians 1:3–6; 3 John 4). Paul’s comfort here models the principle of Galatians 6:9—“let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap.” In addition to our own encouragement, we were even more delighted by the joy of Titus. • Paul’s comfort multiplies because someone he loves—Titus—has returned brimming with joy. Shared joy deepens fellowship (Romans 12:15). • Titus had carried Paul’s stern letter (2 Corinthians 7:8) and risked being received poorly, yet he came back radiant. Seeing a co-worker rejoice is a “double encouragement,” much like Paul’s thrill when Timothy brought a good report from Thessalonica (1 Thessalonians 3:6–7). • Note the order: – Paul’s comfort at the Corinthians’ repentance. – Added delight at Titus’s joy. – This pattern underscores Hebrews 13:17: leaders find “joy” when those they serve respond well. For his spirit has been refreshed by all of you. • “Refreshed” echoes 1 Corinthians 16:18 and Philemon 1:7, where Paul commends believers who lift others’ hearts. The Corinthians, once a source of grief (2 Corinthians 2:4), have become a channel of refreshment. • Practical ways they refreshed Titus likely included: – Warm hospitality and provision (Acts 28:15). – Eagerness to obey Paul’s instruction (2 Corinthians 7:11). – Evident affection for Christ and His servants (Philippians 2:29). • When a congregation encourages a visiting worker, they partner in the gospel (Philippians 1:5) and mirror the household of Onesiphorus, who “often refreshed” Paul (2 Timothy 1:16). summary Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 7:13 reveal a three-fold chain of encouragement: the Corinthians’ repentance comforts Paul, Titus’s joyful report delights him even more, and the believers’ kindness refreshes Titus himself. The verse showcases how repentance restores relationships, how shared joy strengthens leaders, and how hospitality refreshes weary servants—reminding us that in Christ every act of obedience and love multiplies comfort throughout the body. |
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