King James Version

What Does 2 Corinthians 2:7 Mean?

2 Corinthians 2:7 in the King James Version says “So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up wit...” — study this verse from 2 Corinthians chapter 2 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.”

2 Corinthians 2:7 · KJV

ForgivenessComfort

Context

5

But if any have caused grief, he hath not grieved me, but in part: that I may not overcharge you all.

6

Sufficient to such a man is this punishment, which was inflicted of many. punishment: or, censure

7

So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.

8

Wherefore I beseech you that ye would confirm your love toward him.

9

For to this end also did I write, that I might know the proof of you, whether ye be obedient in all things.

Read 2 Corinthians 2 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him—Paul employs two imperatives: charisasthai (χαρίσασθαι, "to forgive, show grace") and parakalesai (παρακαλέσαι, "to comfort, encourage"). The verb charizomai shares its root with charis (grace), indicating forgiveness is a gracious gift, not earned merit. Having disciplined, the church must now actively restore—forgiveness requires intentional comfort, not merely ceasing hostility.

Lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow—The verb katapothē (καταποθῇ, "to swallow up, overwhelm") suggests drowning or complete engulfment. The phrase perissotera lupē (περισσοτέρᾳ λύπῃ, "excessive sorrow") warns of despair leading to spiritual destruction. Unrelenting discipline can drive the repentant to abandon faith entirely. Satan's goal (v. 11) is accomplished whether through unrepentant sin or through excessive grief that destroys the penitent. Paul's pastoral wisdom recognizes both dangers.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Roman legal practice often demanded perpetual shame for certain offenses. Paul's insistence on restoration after repentance reflects Hebrew concepts of restoration (as in Psalm 51) rather than Greco-Roman honor codes. The church operates by grace, not shame-based social control.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does ongoing punishment of the repentant contradict the Gospel of grace?
  2. What practical steps should accompany verbal forgiveness in restoration?
  3. How can churches guard against both laxness in discipline and harshness in restoration?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 14 words
ὥστε1 of 14

“So”

G5620

so too, i.e., thus therefore (in various relations of consecution, as follow)

τοὐναντίον2 of 14

“that contrariwise”

G5121

on the contrary

μᾶλλον3 of 14

“ought rather”

G3123

(adverbially) more (in a greater degree)) or rather

ὑμᾶς4 of 14

“ye”

G5209

you (as the objective of a verb or preposition)

χαρίσασθαι5 of 14

“to forgive”

G5483

to grant as a favor, i.e., gratuitously, in kindness, pardon or rescue

καὶ6 of 14

“him and”

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

παρακαλέσαι7 of 14

“comfort”

G3870

to call near, i.e., invite, invoke (by imploration, hortation or consolation)

μήπως8 of 14

“him lest”

G3381

lest somehow

τῇ9 of 14
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

περισσοτέρᾳ10 of 14
G4053

superabundant (in quantity) or superior (in quality); by implication, excessive; adverbially (with g1537) violently; neuter (as noun) preeminence

λύπῃ11 of 14

“sorrow”

G3077

sadness

καταποθῇ12 of 14

“should be swallowed up”

G2666

to drink down, i.e., gulp entire (literally or figuratively)

ὁ13 of 14
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

τοιοῦτος14 of 14

“such a one”

G5108

truly this, i.e., of this sort (to denote character or individuality)

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Corinthians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Corinthians 2:7 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 2 Corinthians 2:7 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Ephesians 4:32Galatians 6:1-2Colossians 3:13Isaiah 28:7Proverbs 17:222 Thessalonians 3:14-15

Test Your Knowledge

2 Corinthians 2 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Corinthians Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

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