2 Corinthians 7:4

“Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.”

1. Context: The Apostle Paul wrote the book of 2 Corinthians to the church in Corinth. This particular verse is found in the midst of Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians, where he expresses his affection and concern for them. In the preceding chapters, Paul addresses various issues and challenges faced by the Corinthian church.

Paul starts by saying, “Great is my boldness of speech toward you.” Paul’s speech to the Corinthians was marked by frankness and straightforwardness. He didn’t hold back when it came to addressing their spiritual condition and the challenges they faced. His boldness was driven by his genuine love for the church and his desire to see them grow in faith and holiness.

2. Boldness of speech: Paul also says, “Great is my glorying of you.” Despite the issues and problems in the Corinthian church, Paul found reasons to boast about them. He recognized their potential and their unique position as believers in Christ. Paul rejoiced in the work of God in their lives and the progress they had made, despite their shortcomings.

In the latter part of the verse, Paul expresses his personal state, saying, “I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.” Despite facing hardships and tribulations, Paul found comfort and joy. It’s essential to note that the comfort and joy Paul experienced were not because of the tribulations themselves, but rather because of his confidence in God’s faithfulness and the ultimate victory in Christ.

3. Glorying in the Corinthians: Like Paul, we should find reasons to glory in our brothers and sisters in Christ. Instead of focusing solely on their faults, we should recognize and celebrate the work of God in their lives. This attitude helps to foster unity and encouragement within the body of Christ.

4. Comfort and joy in tribulation: Paul’s example teaches us that even in the midst of trials and tribulations, we can find comfort and joy through our faith in God. Trusting in His sovereignty and promises enables us to endure and even rejoice in difficult circumstances, knowing that God is with us and working for our good.

5. Lessons for us:

• a. Boldness in speaking truth: Paul’s boldness of speech challenges us to speak the truth in love to those around us, even if it might be uncomfortable or unpopular. We should be willing to address important matters with clarity and sincerity, always seeking the spiritual growth and well-being of others.
• b. Recognizing God’s work in others: Like Paul, we should find reasons to glory in our brothers and sisters in Christ. Instead of focusing solely on their faults, we should recognize and celebrate the work of God in their lives. This attitude helps to foster unity and encouragement within the body of Christ.
• c. Finding joy and comfort in tribulation: Paul’s example teaches us that even in the midst of trials and tribulations, we can find comfort and joy through our faith in God. Trusting in His sovereignty and promises enables us to endure and even rejoice in difficult circumstances, knowing that God is with us and working for our good.