2 Corinthians 2:5

Caused grief. There is a difference of opinion as to whether Paul here refers to the incestuous person of 1 Cor. 5:1 or to the ringleader of opposition to him. Reasons set forth for both are inconclusive. However, because there is no specific reference in Scripture to the ringleader, as there is to the incestuous person, this commentary assumes that Paul refers to the latter. From the first epistle it appears that this case of immorality had been the most acute problem in the Corinthian church. The case had been aggravated by the open toleration of this offender and by the stubborn refusal, for a time, to deal effectively with it. This passage (2 Cor. 2:5–11) reveals that the church had by now complied with Paul’s instructions and had disfellowshiped the offender. This course of action had evidently led him to genuine repentance. Paul here counsels his restoration and reinstatement in the church.

Paul’s method of dealing with an erring member provides a commendable example for similar cases today. Paul’s firmness and severity toward the man while he remained unrepentant gave way to great tenderness once he had repented. Paul now sought to mitigate the contrite man’s burden of guilt and condemnation, and to restore him to favor with his brethren. Never once does he mention the man’s name, but considerately speaks of him as “such a one” (v. 7). There is no needless repetition of the man’s sins to wound his feelings. Today his name is known only to God. This is the spirit and method of Christ in dealing with such cases (see John 8:10, 11; see on Matt. 18:1–35). How different from those who would publicize the names of offenders and thereby crush them with unnecessary pain and dishonor! Where there is genuine repentance the case should be brought to a close, with no further reference to the incident and with wholehearted acceptance of the forgiven person.

Not grieved me. No personal motives had been involved in the stern measures recommended by Paul. His grief had been over the distress and confusion that had come to the church.

But in part. The latter part of the verse may be rendered more clearly, “but to some extent all of you—lest I be too severe [toward the repentant offender].” The offense was not so much against Paul as against the entire Corinthian church.

Overcharge. Gr. epibareō, “to put a burden upon.” Now that the case had been settled, Paul deliberately avoided wounding the offender by appearing to magnify the offense.