What is the meaning of 2 Corinthians 7:6? But God • The verse begins with a strong contrast: “But God…”—a reminder that when circumstances look bleak, God Himself steps in. (Ephesians 2:4 “But God, who is rich in mercy…”) • Paul’s previous verses describe fears within and conflicts without (2 Corinthians 7:5). Into that tension, God intervenes, showing that His action overrides human limitation. (Genesis 50:20 “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good…”) • The emphasis is on God’s personal involvement, not a distant providence but an active rescue. (Psalm 46:1 “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”) who comforts the downcast • God’s character is to “comfort” (parakaleō, to come alongside). Those “downcast” are literally the low-spirited, pressed down by trials. (Psalm 34:18 “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.”) • Comfort is not sentimental; it is strength poured into weary hearts. (Isaiah 57:15 “I dwell…with the contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly.”) • Jesus embodies this divine trait: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted” (Matthew 5:4). comforted us • Paul and his team move from distress to encouragement—evidence that divine comfort is experiential, not theoretical. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4 “the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles…”) • Note the immediacy: “comforted us.” God’s help arrives in real-time, matching the severity of the crisis. (Psalm 94:19 “When anxiety was great within me, Your consolation brought me joy.”) • This comfort equips believers to minister to others out of lived experience. (Philippians 1:14 “most of the brothers…have far more courage to speak the word of God without fear.”) by the arrival of Titus • God often uses people as His instruments; here comfort comes “by the arrival of Titus.” (Proverbs 27:17 “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.”) • Titus brings good news of the Corinthians’ repentance and affection (2 Corinthians 7:7), proving that fellowship restores hope. (1 Thessalonians 3:6-7 “But now Timothy has come to us…and brought good news of your faith and love…for this reason we were comforted.”) • The principle: God’s sovereignty works through ordinary travel plans and friendships to impart extraordinary grace. (Acts 28:15 “When the brothers there had heard about us…Paul thanked God and was encouraged.”) summary 2 Corinthians 7:6 showcases a divine pattern: God interrupts despair, displays His nature as the Comforter, applies His comfort personally, and channels it through faithful friends. The verse reassures every believer that no matter the depth of discouragement, God is already orchestrating tangible relief—often arriving on two feet, in the form of a brother or sister—so that His people move from downcast to uplifted, and His glory is magnified in their restored joy. |
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