2 corinthians 12:21 - that again when I come my God would humble me before you, and I would mourn for many of those who have sinned before now, and not repented of the uncleanness and sexual immorality and lustfulness which they committed.
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What does "2 corinthians 12:21" mean?
This verse, 2 Corinthians 12:21, is a window into the heart of the Apostle Paul and his deep concern for the Corinthian church. Let's break it down:
"That again when I come my God would humble me before you..." Paul is worried that when he visits Corinth again, he will be humbled. This humility wouldn't be a positive experience of self-effacement. Instead, it refers to the shame and grief he would feel upon seeing the continued sin and unrepentance in the church. He's fearing that God will show him the depth of their sin, causing him deep distress.
"...and I would mourn for many of those who have sinned before now..." The reason for Paul's potential humiliation is tied to the unrepentant sinners within the church. He anticipates having to grieve deeply (mourn) for them. This isn't just a casual disappointment; it's a profound sorrow over their spiritual state. He sees their choices as having serious consequences.
"...and not repented of the uncleanness and sexual immorality and lustfulness which they committed." Here, Paul specifies the nature of the sins plaguing the church. "Uncleanness" is a general term for moral impurity. "Sexual immorality" (often translated from the Greek word porneia) covers a wide range of sexual sins outside of the boundaries of biblical marriage. "Lustfulness" speaks to uncontrolled desires and passions, leading to sinful actions or thoughts. The key point is that these sins are unrepented. Repentance involves acknowledging sin, turning away from it, and seeking forgiveness and a change of life. The Corinthians have not done this.
In essence, Paul is saying:
"I'm afraid that when I visit you again, God will make me deeply ashamed and sorrowful because many of you are still engaging in sinful behaviors – sexual impurity, various forms of sexual sin, and uncontrolled lust – and, most importantly, you haven't repented or turned away from these sins."
Key implications of the verse:
Paul's Authority and Responsibility: Paul felt responsible for the spiritual well-being of the churches he founded. He took their sin seriously and was willing to confront it, even at the cost of his own emotional well-being.
The Seriousness of Unrepentant Sin: The verse highlights the gravity of sin, especially when it's not acknowledged and repented of. It suggests that unrepentant sin can create a barrier between individuals and God and can disrupt the fellowship of the church.
Importance of Repentance: The absence of repentance is the core issue. Repentance is not just feeling sorry; it's a change of heart and a turning away from sin.
Church Discipline (implied): While not explicitly stated, the verse hints at the need for the church to address these sins. Paul's potential humiliation suggests that the church hasn't dealt with the issue effectively.
In conclusion, 2 Corinthians 12:21 is a powerful expression of Paul's pastoral heart and his concern for the spiritual health of the Corinthian church. It underscores the importance of repentance and the serious consequences of unrepentant sin within a community of believers.
2 corinthians 12:21 - that again when I come my God would humble me before you, and I would mourn for many of those who have sinned before now, and not repented of the uncleanness and sexual immorality and lustfulness which they committed.
What does "2 corinthians 12:21" mean?
This verse, 2 Corinthians 12:21, is a window into the heart of the Apostle Paul and his deep concern for the Corinthian church. Let's break it down:
"That again when I come my God would humble me before you..." Paul is worried that when he visits Corinth again, he will be humbled. This humility wouldn't be a positive experience of self-effacement. Instead, it refers to the shame and grief he would feel upon seeing the continued sin and unrepentance in the church. He's fearing that God will show him the depth of their sin, causing him deep distress.
"...and I would mourn for many of those who have sinned before now..." The reason for Paul's potential humiliation is tied to the unrepentant sinners within the church. He anticipates having to grieve deeply (mourn) for them. This isn't just a casual disappointment; it's a profound sorrow over their spiritual state. He sees their choices as having serious consequences.
"...and not repented of the uncleanness and sexual immorality and lustfulness which they committed." Here, Paul specifies the nature of the sins plaguing the church. "Uncleanness" is a general term for moral impurity. "Sexual immorality" (often translated from the Greek word porneia) covers a wide range of sexual sins outside of the boundaries of biblical marriage. "Lustfulness" speaks to uncontrolled desires and passions, leading to sinful actions or thoughts. The key point is that these sins are unrepented. Repentance involves acknowledging sin, turning away from it, and seeking forgiveness and a change of life. The Corinthians have not done this.
In essence, Paul is saying:
"I'm afraid that when I visit you again, God will make me deeply ashamed and sorrowful because many of you are still engaging in sinful behaviors – sexual impurity, various forms of sexual sin, and uncontrolled lust – and, most importantly, you haven't repented or turned away from these sins."
Key implications of the verse:
Paul's Authority and Responsibility: Paul felt responsible for the spiritual well-being of the churches he founded. He took their sin seriously and was willing to confront it, even at the cost of his own emotional well-being.
The Seriousness of Unrepentant Sin: The verse highlights the gravity of sin, especially when it's not acknowledged and repented of. It suggests that unrepentant sin can create a barrier between individuals and God and can disrupt the fellowship of the church.
Importance of Repentance: The absence of repentance is the core issue. Repentance is not just feeling sorry; it's a change of heart and a turning away from sin.
Church Discipline (implied): While not explicitly stated, the verse hints at the need for the church to address these sins. Paul's potential humiliation suggests that the church hasn't dealt with the issue effectively.
In conclusion, 2 Corinthians 12:21 is a powerful expression of Paul's pastoral heart and his concern for the spiritual health of the Corinthian church. It underscores the importance of repentance and the serious consequences of unrepentant sin within a community of believers.