Paul pleads with the Corinthian Christians to trust in his integrity and decide to fellowship with him before his visit.
Paul’s Request, vv. 1-4
A. Turn from the unclean and seek God’s holiness, v. 1.
B. Make room for him in their hearts, v. 2: they were listening to lies about Paul.
1. He has never wronged them, v. 2.
2. He has them in his heart, vv. 3-4.
Paul’s Relief, vv. 5-7
A. Upon seeing Titus the man, vv. 6-7: Paul worried about Titus’ safety.
B. Upon hearing Titus the messenger, v. 7:
1. Titus reports the Corinthians welcomed him warmly.
2. Titus reports the Corinthians received Paul’s rebuke and repented.
Paul’s Regret, vv. 8-11
A. Paul regretted his last letter was stern, but glad it produced repentance, vv. 8-9.
B. Paul makes a distinction between remorse and repentance, vv. 10-11.
1. Godly sorrow leads to repentance and life.
2. Worldly sorrow leads to remorse and death.
Paul’s Reaffirmation, vv. 12-16
Paul’s faith in the Corinthians church is reaffirmed by two factors:
1. They received Titus.
2. They repented of their sin.
Conclusion
A. Turn away from sin and seek God’s holiness.
B. Don’t believe accusations against God’s servants without evidence.
C. Don’t just be sorry for sin, but repent of sin.