Paul’s ministry didn’t look successful. He was often rejected, beaten, and misunderstood. But in 2 Corinthians 2:5–17, Paul reminds us that the gospel doesn’t need to be repackaged to be effective.
In this week’s episode, we explore:
* The situation with the man disciplined in Corinth and Paul’s call to forgive him
* Why Paul delayed his visit and sent a letter instead
* How Paul viewed himself in God’s triumphal procession
* The difference between sincere preaching and peddling the gospel
* What it means to teach and trust God with the results
By listening, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how Paul handled criticism, disappointment, and conflict in ministry. You’ll be encouraged to speak the truth faithfully, even when you can’t control how others respond.
Why Paul Refused to Change to Win More Converts (2 Corinthians 2:5-17)
In this passage, Paul addresses two major concerns with the church in Corinth: how they handled a disciplinary case involving a disruptive member, and how they viewed Paul’s own ministry. Paul defends his actions and clarifies his motives, reminding the Corinthians—and us—that the outcome of gospel ministry belongs to God.
A Painful Offense and a Call to Forgive (2 Corinthians 2:5–11)
Paul refers to a man who caused significant pain, likely during Paul’s sorrowful visit to Corinth.
* Paul states that the man’s offense hurt the entire church, not just him.
* The Corinthians had disciplined the man, and Paul now urges them to forgive and comfort him.
* Paul asks them to reaffirm their love, emphasizing the goal of restoration.
* Paul reminds them that he has already forgiven the man and urges them not to let Satan take advantage of the situation.
Who Was the Offender?
Paul never names the man or the exact offense, but scholars have proposed two main theories:
* Some believe the offender was the immoral man from
1 Corinthians 5.
* Others think the man publicly challenged Paul’s authority during the sorrowful visit.
Paul’s language suggests a personal offense against him that harmed the whole church and sparked division over Paul’s apostleship.
Paul’s Concern for the Church (2 Corinthians 2:12–13)
After writing the sorrowful letter, Paul eagerly awaited news of the Corinthians’ response.
* Paul went to Troas to preach but could not focus because Titus had not returned with news.
* He left Troas and continued to Macedonia, hoping to meet Titus along the way.
* Paul’s anxiety showed how deeply he cared about the church and their spiritual condition.
God’s Victory and Paul’s Role (2 Corinthians 2:14–17)
Paul reflects on his ministry using the image of a Roman triumphal procession.
* A conquering Roman general would return home to a victory parade. The people lining the streets burned incense to greet him. The general was followed by his victories soldiers and then by prisoners of war and captives.
* The the victories soldier the aroma of the incense is the sweet smell of success. To the captives it is the smell of death and defeat.
