2 Corinthians 2:3
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
3 And I wrote as I did[a] so that when I came I might not be pained by those in whom I should have rejoiced, confident about all of you that my joy is that of all of you.
Read full chapterFootnotes
- 2:3–4 I wrote as I did: we learn for the first time about the sending of a letter in place of the proposed visit. Paul mentions the letter in passing, but emphasizes his motivation in sending it: to avoid being saddened by them (cf. 1 Cor 2:1), and to help them realize the depth of his love. Another motive will be added in 2 Cor 7:12—to bring to light their own concern for him. With many tears: it has been suggested that we may have all or part of this “tearful letter” somewhere in the Corinthian correspondence, either in 1 Cor 5 (the case of the incestuous man), or in 1 Corinthians as a whole, or in 2 Cor 2:10–13. None of these hypotheses is entirely convincing. See note on 2 Cor 13:1.
2 Corinthians 2:3
New International Version
3 I wrote as I did,(A) so that when I came I would not be distressed(B) by those who should have made me rejoice. I had confidence(C) in all of you, that you would all share my joy.
2 Corinthians 2:9
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
9 For this is why I wrote, to know your proven character, whether you were obedient in everything.(A)
Read full chapter
2 Corinthians 2:9
New International Version
9 Another reason I wrote you(A) was to see if you would stand the test and be obedient in everything.(B)
2 Corinthians 7:8
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
8 [a]For even if I saddened you by my letter, I do not regret it; and if I did regret it ([for] I see that that letter saddened you, if only for a while),(A)
Read full chapterFootnotes
- 7:8–12 Paul looks back on the episode from the viewpoint of its ending. The goal of their common activity, promotion of their joy (2 Cor 1:24), has been achieved, despite and because of the sorrow they felt. That sorrow was God-given. Its salutary effects are enumerated fully and impressively in 2 Cor 7:10–11; not the least important of these is that it has revealed to them the attachment they have to Paul.
2 Corinthians 7:8
New International Version
8 Even if I caused you sorrow by my letter,(A) I do not regret it. Though I did regret it—I see that my letter hurt you, but only for a little while—
Scripture texts, prefaces, introductions, footnotes and cross references used in this work are taken from the New American Bible, revised edition © 2010, 1991, 1986, 1970 Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, Inc., Washington, DC All Rights Reserved. No part of this work may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.
Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
NIV Reverse Interlinear Bible: English to Hebrew and English to Greek. Copyright © 2019 by Zondervan.