2 Corinthians 1:5–7

2 CORINTHIANS CHAPTER 1

Address, Thanksgiving, and Consolation. 2 Corinthians 1, 1–11.

Thanksgiving and comfort: V.5. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ. V.6. And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer; or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. V.7. And our hope of you is steadfast, knowing that, as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation.

The reason why this consolation from above is so sure and includes such wonderful qualifications for the individual Christian is given: For as Christ’s sufferings abound, flow over, to us, even so through Christ our comfort also abounds.

That it is the lot of the Christians to partake of His sufferings here on earth is a thought which is found throughout the New Testament, Matt. 16, 24; Rom. 8, 17; Phil. 3. 10; Col. 1, 24; for they are a part of the persecutions which come upon them for the sake of righteousness, in their struggle with the powers of darkness. In this way the sufferings of Christ flow over to us.

But since this fellowship with Christ includes also the consolation and strength which flow from the union with Christ, therefore the very existence of the afflictions brings comfort ineffable, through Christ, comfort in rich measure. The sufferings may be numerous, while the comfort is but one and the same at all times, and yet the latter exceeds the former, Philippians 4. 4.

In this joyful assurance, Paul was able to write: But whether we endure affliction, it is for the sake of your consolation and salvation; or whether we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which is effectual in the patient enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer; and our hope in your behalf is steadfast, since we know that as you are partakers of the sufferings, so also of the comfort.

So perfectly and completely is Paul engrossed in matters pertaining to their benefit that he considers both his afflictions and consolations only inasmuch as they will be of benefit to them. He is willing to endure tribulation, if only they are comforted and saved; he is glad of any comfort, if only it may be transmitted to them in such a way as to produce in them steadfast, endurance in bearing the sufferings of Christ. 1 Pet. 5. 9, the common lot of all believers.

And with true Christian. loving optimism the apostle holds the firm hope concerning them, his hope in their behalf is unshakable, because it is based upon the knowledge that they also share in the sufferings which lie is enduring, not only in sympathy, but in fact, 1 Corinthians12. 26. and will therefore also share in the comfort which he is enjoying.

Thus the entire Church is a brotherhood of common comfort in common suffering.