2 Corinthians 2 Commentary

Paul explains why he did not come to Corinth as previously planned. He believed his visit would bring pain to both himself and the Corinthians. He has the Corinthians’ best interest at heart, and is seeking to aid their spiritual growth by writing to them.

Paul addresses how to treat a specific person who has caused problems in the Corinthian church. This troublemaker has been sufficiently punished, and ought to now be forgiven and helped. Otherwise, being in a perpetual state of regret will hurt him. The point of correcting other believers is to bring them back to the truth, not to permanently shame them and ostracize them.

A troublemaking believer, after being rebuked and disciplined, should be restored back to fellowship with the body of believers. Otherwise Satan can take advantage of us, if we do not forgive and love one another.

Paul was troubled in spirit over what was happening in Corinth. In following the will of God, he was able to see and know the presence of the Spirit of God. He defends his ministry again as he rebuffs any claim that he is preaching for profit. He declares that the Corinthian believers are his letter of recommendation of his ministry.