What is the meaning of 2 Corinthians 7:15? His affection for you is even greater • Paul has just reported that Titus returned from Corinth overflowing with joy (2 Corinthians 7:13–14). The affection mentioned here is Titus’s deep, heartfelt love for the believers, love that swelled after witnessing their genuine response. • Earlier Paul wrote, “For through many tears I wrote you… to let you know the depth of my love for you” (2 Corinthians 2:4). Now that same love is mirrored in Titus, confirming that the gospel produces real family bonds. • Genuine Christian affection grows when believers see one another walking in truth (3 John 1:3–4). Titus’s rising affection is proof that obedience and repentance warm the hearts of those who minister. When he remembers • Memory fuels affection. Each recollection of Corinth’s change of heart rekindles joy in Titus, much like Paul’s own gratitude whenever he thought of the Philippians: “I thank my God every time I remember you” (Philippians 1:3). • Godly leaders treasure testimonies of spiritual growth. Paul told Timothy he longed to see him, “remembering your tears” (2 Timothy 1:4). In the same way, Titus’s memories of Corinth are now soaked in encouragement rather than concern. You were all obedient • The entire church responded; no pockets of resistance remained. Earlier, Paul had “written to test your obedience” (2 Corinthians 2:9). The test was passed, demonstrating that the Spirit’s work was thorough. • Obedience is the expected fruit of faith. “Just as you have always obeyed… continue to work out your salvation” (Philippians 2:12). Their collective submission validated Paul’s authority and upheld the gospel’s honor (Hebrews 13:17). As you welcomed him with fear and trembling • “Fear and trembling” is not cringing terror but reverent seriousness. Slaves are told to obey “with fear and trembling, in sincerity of heart, as to Christ” (Ephesians 6:5). The Corinthians received Titus with that same God-focused respect. • Their reception echoed Cornelius’s words to Peter: “Now we are all here in the presence of God to listen to everything the Lord has commanded you to tell us” (Acts 10:33). Such humility shows that the believers understood Titus was a messenger of God, not just Paul’s assistant. • The posture of fear and trembling keeps the church teachable and shields it from pride (Isaiah 66:2). It is precisely this humble stance that intensified Titus’s affection; respect invites love. summary Titus returned to Paul brimming with love for the Corinthian church because every memory he had was of their unified, humble obedience. They listened, repented, and embraced him with reverent seriousness. Their response proved the authenticity of their faith, satisfied Paul’s pastoral heart, and strengthened the bonds of Christian fellowship. |
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