2 Corinthians 7:6 - Commentary

Verse: "Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus."

Introduction

The verse from 2 Corinthians 7:6 holds profound significance for believers enduring trials and tribulations. The Apostle Paul expresses his gratitude for the comfort provided by God through Titus amidst his distress. This commentary synthesizes insights from various public domain sources, offering depth for pastors, students, theologians, and scholars.

Contextual Background

Understanding this verse requires examining its context within the entire letter. Paul, having faced severe opposition in his ministry, alludes to his emotional turmoil, reflecting on the hardships he faced in preaching the gospel (2 Corinthians 1:8-10). In this correspondence, he also addresses the Corinthian church's issues, seeking to encourage them in their faith.

Commentary Insights

• Matthew Henry:

  Henry emphasizes God's pastoral role in the lives of His followers, illustrating that God comforts the downcast. He notes that God’s comfort often comes through human agency, as exemplified in the arrival of Titus. For Henry, this illustrates the importance of community in the Christian faith; we are called to bear one another's burdens (Galatians 6:2).

• Albert Barnes:

  Barnes provides a theological perspective on comfort, highlighting that the term "comforteth" signifies a divine action. He asserts that the coming of Titus was not merely a coincidence but a strategic appointment by God to provide encouragement to Paul. This reinforces the idea of providential care and the interconnectedness of believers, where God uses one believer to uplift another.

• Adam Clarke:

  Clarke draws attention to the psychological aspects of comfort. He points out that one of the greatest comforts for Paul during his tribulation was not just the arrival of Titus but the good news Titus brought regarding the Corinthians' response to Paul’s previous letter. Clarke suggests that good news in a time of distress serves as a balm for the soul, further emphasizing the transformative power of encouragement within the body of Christ.

The Themes of Comfort and Community

This verse significantly highlights two themes: divine comfort and the role of community. God’s nature as a comforter is vital, especially in contexts of suffering. Additionally, Paul's experience illustrates how God gently restores His ministers through the mutual support of fellow believers, underscoring the necessity of fellowship and encouragement in the Christian journey.

The Nature of God's Comfort

God's comfort is multifaceted. It includes emotional, spiritual, and even physical aspects. As highlighted by the commentators, God's actions are often conveyed through human contact and relationships. The assurance of God’s presence in times of trouble reassures believers that their struggles are not in vain, which aligns with the broader biblical narrative that emphasizes God as an ever-present help (Psalm 46:1).

Titus as a Messenger

Titus symbolizes God’s provision and the necessary assurance needed during turbulent times. His arrival not only restored Paul's spirit but also served as a reminder to the church about the importance of maintaining communication and support among believers. Titus’ function as a mediator of joy demonstrates that encouraging messages often come through trusted companions or leaders in the faith community.

Applications for Today

For contemporary readers, this passage offers profound applications:

• Encouragement in Ministry: Pastors and church leaders can take heart knowing they are not alone in their challenges. Just as Paul was comforted by Titus, leaders today can find solace in the support of their congregations and peers.
• The Power of Good News: Sharing positive developments among church members can greatly bolster morale. Churches should cultivate environments where good reports can be shared, reflecting the communal joy and victories in faith.
• Being a Source of Comfort: Believers are encouraged to act as conduits of God's comfort. By reaching out to the distressed, providing support, and sharing uplifting messages, individuals can fulfill their calling as instruments of God's grace in the lives of others.

Conclusion

2 Corinthians 7:6 encapsulates the essence of God's comfort amid life's trials. It reiterates that the Lord is attentive to our afflictions and employs others to administer His grace. As we reflect on Paul's experiences and insights from esteemed commentaries, we are reminded that both the comfort we receive and the comfort we offer play crucial roles in our faith community.