“For when we came into Macedonia, we had no rest, but we were harassed at every turn—conflicts on the outside, fears within. 6 But God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus, 7 and not only by his coming but also by the comfort you had given him. He told us about your longing for me, your deep sorrow, your ardent concern for me, so that my joy was greater than ever. 8 Even if I caused you sorrow by my letter, I do not regret it. Though I did regret it—I see that my letter hurt you, but only for a little while— 9 yet now I am happy, not because you were made sorry, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you became sorrowful as God intended and so were not harmed in any way by us. ” 2 Cor 7.5-9
Paul is in an ongoing relationship with the Corinthian church in which he is helping them grow and is discipling them in their faith. Many issues comes forward and some of these were addressed in his previous book to them. A long book, I might add, that is longer than 2 Corinthians. So if we believe the Word of God is transcendent, then we believe it speaks to us today just as it spoke to the early church so many years ago (although through our different circumstances and different situations).
Paul begins by talking about his journey from Macedonia (formerly Turkey). He was “harassed at every turn,” he had “conflicts on the outside, fears within.” It doesn’t sound like a pleasant journey. But he sees the need to share this with the Corinthians, and with us through the power of the Holy Spirit. For sometimes we too are harassed and face conflicts for our faith.
Yet God brought comfort to all through one person — Titus. One commentary says this about Titus, “Titus was a native of Greece, and a Gentile by birth; but was converted to the Christian faith by the apostle Paul, who, in consequence of his strict adherence to the doctrine of Christ, calls him son. St. Jerome tells us that he was St. Paul’s interpreter; and that, probably, because he might write what Paul dictated, or translate into Greek what he had written in Latin.” (https://www.christianity.com/church/church-history/timeline/1-300/titus-11629586.html)
Whereas this is not a lesson strictly on Titus, it is important to note the encouragement brought to the church through this person. God uses individuals to lift up his churches. He even brings us sorrow when one we love is facing difficulty. This difficulty can lead to repentance. As Paul writes about in this segment. “I see that my letter hurt you, but only for a little while…but my sorry led to your repentance.”
God used the presence of Titus to smooth the transition for Paul to continue to rebuke, correct and encourage the church. And the sorrow of the people who were being taught right teachings by Paul, brought momentarily sorrowful. But this sorrow leads to repentance — a turning back to Jesus.
Much is happening in this passage so remember this letter is also intended for us today. Lessons that correction can lead to holiness is good and right. Lessons that sorrow leads to repentance is hopeful. Lessons that God uses individuals to encourage his Body is true. Maybe today what you read will bring you strength and reassure your faith in Christ. Maybe through the power of the Holy Spirit you are in need of repentance, of a reawakening of a revival in your own heart and soul. I know I am.
“O Lord God, you are good. I am but a servant walking through life in your Spirit, striving for holiness, seeking to honor and please your name. Help me, Lord God, to see you in truth and to serve your Body as you see fit. I love you Lord for saving me and restoring my life. Even when my love fails your love remains steadfast. For you are good and your love endures forever.” Amen