2 Corinthians 7

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TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS

Paul's Letters of Rebuke

BACKGROUND NOTES



DOCTRINAL POINT(S)

  1. A proper rebuke should produce godly sorrow.

  2. Godly sorrow will produce spiritual growth.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

  1. Don’t take advantage in the ministry.

QUESTIONS

  1. How does 1 Corinthians 7:1 fit into the context?

  2. Are the Old Testament promises quoted at the end of chapter 6 being fulfilled in the Church rather than with the nation of Israel?

  3. What should be our attitude in response to the promises at the end of chapter 6?

  4. Review the story of Titus and the sorrowful letter mentioned here.

  5. What is the difference between remorse and repentance?

ANSWERS

  1. This verse properly goes with the end of chapter 6; it is a celebration of the wonderful promises quoted.

  2. No, these promises that were made to Israel will be fulfilled with Israel when Israel returns to the Lord in the future. In the meantime the blessings of some of these promises have been extended to the Church.

  3. We should be motivated to practice godly living. See 2 Corinthians 7:1.

  4. Paul wrote a sorrowful letter to the Corinthians, which Titus carried to them. Paul was very concerned about how the Corinthians would react to Titus and this letter of rebuke. Paul was restless until he heard a report back from Titus. The rebukes had resulted in godly sorrow.

  5. Remorse or regret can come when someone regrets the consequences of their actions, but not necessarily the actions themselves. Repentance is the godly response, which should lead to our restoration and salvation from the problem. See 2 Corinthians 7:10.

DISCUSS/CONSIDER

  1. Has a fellow believer ever rebuked you out of love? What was your response? It is never pleasant to be rebuked, but a proper rebuke should produce godly sorrow and repentance.

  2. How does godly sorrow produce spiritual growth? What else produces spiritual growth.

CHALLENGE

  1. If you are involved in ministry, don’t take advantage in the ministry.

KEY VERSES

  • “Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.” 2 Corinthians 7:1

  • “For godly sorrow produces repentance leading to salvation, not to be regretted; but the sorrow of the world produces death.” 2 Corinthians 7:10



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