2Corinthians:2

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* Verse 1-4 - The apostle desired to have a cheerful meeting with them ; and he had written in confidence of their doing what was to their benefit and his comfort ; and that therefore they would be glad to remove every cause of disquiet from him . We should always give pain unwillingly , even when duty requires that it must be given . * Verse 5-11 - The apostle desires them to receive the person who had done wrong , again into their communion ; for he was aware of his fault , and much afflicted under his punishment . Even sorrow for sin should not unfit for other duties , and drive to despair . Not only was there danger last Satan should get advantage , by tempting the penitent to hard thoughts of God and religion , and so drive him to despair ; but against the churches and the ministers of Christ , by bringing an evil report upon Christians as unforgiving ; thus making divisions , and hindering the success of the ministry . In this , as in other things , wisdom is to be used , that the ministry may not be blamed for indulging sin on the one hand , or for too great severity towards sinners on the other hand . Satan has many plans to deceive , and knows how to make a bad use of our mistakes . * Verse 12-17 - A believer 's triumphs are all in Christ . To him be the praise and glory of all , while the success of the gospel is a good reason for a Christian 's joy and rejoicing . In ancient triumphs , abundance of perfumes and sweet odours were used ; so the name and salvation of Jesus , as ointment poured out , was a sweet savour diffused in every place . Unto some , the gospel is a savour of death unto death . They reject it to their ruin . Unto others , the gospel is a savour of life unto life : as it quickened them at first when they were dead in trespasses and sins , so it makes them more lively , and will end in eternal life . Observe the awful impressions this matter made upon the apostle , and should also make upon us . The work is great , and of ourselves we have no strength at all ; all our sufficiency is of God . But what we do in religion , unless it is done in sincerity , as in the sight of God , is not of God , does not come from him , and will not reach to him . May we carefully watch ourselves in this matter ; and seek the testimony of our consciences , under the teaching of the Holy Spirit , that as of sincerity , so speak we in Christ and of Christ . Henry ' _2__3 **** Matthew Henry 's Commentary **** _

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