1 Samuel 17-18, Psalm 102, Mark 12:1-12, 2 Corinthians 7

2 Corinthians 7:

This part of 2 Corinthians is in essence a lengthy – and somewhat emotional – discussion about Paul’s relationship to the Corinthian church that hinges on a particular observation he has now made. That observation is: “Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.” His observation is that they have genuinely repented – there has been “godly sorrow” – and therefore he renews his sense of comfort, confidence and joy in them.

First, Paul concludes his argument in chapter 6 by saying that because we have such great promises of God being a father to us, we should therefore be holy. Note the apostolic logic: graceful promises are to promote holiness (not laziness, sin, or backsliding). When we really understand the double-edged sword of the Word of God – both its warnings and its promises – we are motivated towards pursuing increasing holiness. Are you pursuing increasing holiness?

Second, and throughout the rest of this chapter, Paul reminds them of and celebrates the reality of their “godly sorrow” or repentance. What can we learn from this section? We can learn the importance of repentance among Christians today. Sometimes people think that repentance is only for non-Christians. But in many ways, what characterizes a Christian is an attitude of repentance. We repent from our sins of pride, envy, jealousy, covetousness, greed. We repent that we do not love God as we should. We repent that we do not seek God’s glory as we must. We repent that our hearts are not soft to the things of God or do not long for God’s Word. There is much to repent of – and godly repentance does not produce sorrow, but life and joy. Confess your sins to God, therefore, and find life today!