2 Corinthians 7:13 (KJV)

What does 2 Corinthians 7:13 mean?

2 Corinthians 7:13 means that Paul and his companions felt encouraged because the Corinthian believers had comforted Titus, and this brought them even greater joy when they saw how refreshed and uplifted Titus was by his time with the church. The verse highlights how the positive actions of the Corinthians toward Titus deeply affected Paul and his team.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, explaining how their kindness and support toward Titus, who had visited them on Paul's behalf, brought comfort not only to Titus but also to Paul himself. The situation is that Paul had been anxious about how the Corinthians would respond to his earlier letter, but seeing Titus return in good spirits reassured him that the relationship was restored and strong.

The Greek behind 2 Corinthians 7:13

• The word for "comforted" (παρακαλέω, parakaleō) and "comfort" (παράκλησις, paraklēsis) both carry the sense of encouragement or consolation, showing that the comfort was both received and shared among Paul, Titus, and the Corinthians.
• The phrase "his spirit was refreshed" uses the Greek word ἀναπαύω (anapauō), which means to give rest or to revive. This suggests that Titus was not just cheered up, but truly renewed and strengthened by the Corinthians' actions.
• The word "exceedingly" (περισσοτέρως, perissoterōs) emphasizes that the joy Paul and his companions felt was not just ordinary happiness, but an overflowing or abundant joy because of Titus's experience.

Why 2 Corinthians 7:13 matters

• This verse clears up that Paul’s comfort was not only from hearing good news but from seeing the real effect the Corinthians had on Titus, showing how encouragement can ripple out and affect many people.
• The verse highlights the importance of relationships and mutual care in the early Christian community, showing that the well-being of one member (Titus) could deeply impact others (Paul and his team).
• It connects to the wider passage by showing the restoration of trust and affection between Paul and the Corinthians after a period of tension, marking a turning point in their relationship.