What does it mean to "wronged no one" in our daily interactions? Setting the Verse in Context “Make room for us in your hearts. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have exploited no one.” (2 Corinthians 7:2) Paul writes to believers he dearly loves. His brief defense—“we have wronged no one”—is not prideful; it is the Spirit-inspired model for every follower of Christ. Unpacking “Wronged No One” • Greek term adikeō: to injure, act unjustly, harm, cheat, or treat unfairly. • Paul claims he has avoided every shade of injustice toward others—intentional or accidental. • The statement rests on the gospel call to love neighbors (Mark 12:31). Biblical Thread on Avoiding Wrong • Romans 13:10 – “Love does no wrong to a neighbor.” • 1 Corinthians 13:5 – Love “is not self-seeking… keeps no record of wrongs.” • Luke 6:31 – “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” • Philippians 2:3 – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride.” • Ephesians 4:25-32 – Put away falsehood, bitterness, and malice. Together these verses define “wronging” as any action, word, or motive that harms another person’s body, soul, reputation, or property. Practical Ways to “Wrong No One” Today 1. Speech • Refuse gossip (Proverbs 16:28). • Speak truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). 2. Business & Money • Pay fair wages, avoid dishonest gain (James 5:4; Proverbs 11:1). 3. Relationships • Keep promises (Psalm 15:4). • Seek reconciliation quickly (Matthew 5:23-24). 4. Online Presence • Post only what builds up (Ephesians 4:29). • Refrain from slander and quarrels (Titus 3:2). 5. Attitudes • Honor others above self (Romans 12:10). • Guard against partiality (James 2:1-4). Guardrails that Help Us Stay Clear of Wronging Others • Daily heart check: “Search me, O God” (Psalm 139:23-24). • Accountability with mature believers (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Quick confession when convicted (1 John 1:9). • Dependence on the Spirit’s power, not mere willpower (Galatians 5:16). When Wrong Has Already Happened • Acknowledge it without excuses (Psalm 51:3-4). • Seek forgiveness from God and the offended person (Matthew 5:24). • Make restitution when possible (Luke 19:8). • Walk in the freedom of Christ’s cleansing and keep learning (2 Corinthians 7:10-11). Encouragement for the Journey Remaining blameless in our dealings is not optional but expected of those who wear Christ’s name (1 Thessalonians 4:12). The same grace that saved us empowers us to live uprightly (Titus 2:11-12). As we yield to the Spirit, we too can echo Paul’s confident testimony: “We have wronged no one.” |
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