2 Corinthians 7:12-16

Wherefore, though I wrote unto you, I did it not for his cause that had done the wrong.

Church discipline

I. Church discipline should be exercised for the good of the whole Church (2 Corinthians 7:12). The particular individual referred to here was the incestuous person (1 Corinthians 5:1). The apostle here states that this discipline was not merely for the offender’s sake, nor indeed for the sake of the offended. His object in writing was not merely to chastise the one, and to obtain justice for the other. He had a larger aim; it was to prove to them how much he cared for their spiritual purity and reputation. Punishment should not only be for the reformation of the wrongdoer, but as an example to others. The unhealthy branch should be cut off for the sake of the tree’s health and growth. All true chastisement for wrong aims not only at the good of the offender, but at the good of the community at large.

II. When the good of the Church is manifested it is a just matter for rejoicing (2 Corinthians 7:13). The Church was improved by Paul’s disciplinary letter. Of this Titus had assured him, for they had “refreshed” his “spirit” during his visit among them. Their improvement, too, justified the high testimony which he had given Titus concerning them (verse 14). The love of Titus for them was increased by the discovery of it (verse 15). Thus the godly sorrow which they manifested on account of that which was wrong amongst them was in every way satisfactory to him; it gave him comfort, it greatly refreshed the spirit of Titus, increased his affection for them, and inspired the apostle himself with confidence and with joy. (D. Thomas D. D.).