2 Corinthians 7:15-16
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It's not just that they obeyed, but how they received him with "fear and trembling" that truly stirred affection. This wasn't servile terror, but a profound reverence for God's messenger and his message, showing their deep respect for the spiritual authority God had placed over them.
And his affection for you is even greater, as he remembers the obedience of you all, how you received him with fear and trembling. I rejoice, because I have complete confidence in you.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Paul is celebrating the Corinthians' response to his previous letter, which had been stern and corrective. Now, he's overjoyed to hear that they've repented and embraced his teachings, demonstrating a genuine change of heart. This verse highlights their positive reaction, showing how their obedience now prompts deep affection from Titus, who witnessed it firsthand.
Paul talks about a deep, personal affection. It wasn't just about duty; it was about relationship.
Paul's affection for the Corinthians wasn't just a one-way street. He genuinely loved them, and he saw their obedience as a sign of their receptive hearts towards God's work through him.
The phrase 'fear and trembling' can sound intense! What did Paul really mean when he described their reception of him this way?
When Paul mentions the Corinthians receiving him 'with fear and trembling,' he's not describing a cowering, terrified populace. Instead, he's pointing to a profound sense of awe and reverence.
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Understand the original words
hypakoē · Greek Noun
The act of complying with God’s instructions or authority. It is the visible evidence of one’s submission to divine truth and leadership.
phobos kai tromos · Greek Phrase
A state of profound humility and serious regard for the weight of one's responsibility or the presence of a holy influence. It reflects a posture of submission and vulnerability before authority or God.
chairō · Greek Verb
To feel or express great joy or exultation, often rooted in God's work or the fellowship of believers. It implies a deep, settled gladness of heart.
tharsos · Greek Noun
A firm belief, trust, or persuasion regarding someone or something. In a biblical context, it often refers to a settled conviction or reliance on God's grace or the faithfulness of others.
The 'obedience' mentioned here refers to the Corinthians' response to Paul's earlier, painful letter. Their repentance and subsequent welcome of Paul's messenger, Titus, demonstrates their renewed submission to his apostolic teaching.
c. AD 49-50
Paul Founds Church in Corinth
Paul spent about 18 months in Corinth, establishing a thriving church from diverse backgrounds. This marked a significant missionary milestone.
c. AD 55
Paul's Severe Letter to Corinth
Paul writes a painful, 'tearful' letter (mentioned in 2 Corinthians 2:4) to address deep-seated sin and division within the Corinthian church.
c. AD 55
Titus Delivers Severe Letter
The apostle Titus likely carried Paul's severe letter to Corinth, a task fraught with potential danger and uncertainty.
c. AD 55-56— this verse
Titus Reports on Corinth's Response
Titus returns to Paul with encouraging news: the majority in Corinth have repented, showing genuine sorrow and a desire to obey. This is the context for 2 Corinthians.
c. AD 56
Paul Writes Second Letter to Corinth
Paul pens his second letter to the Corinthians, expressing relief and joy at their repentance and reaffirming his apostolic authority.
This passage highlights the early believers' devoted commitment to the apostles' teaching and fellowship, mirroring the Corinthian church's positive reception of their leaders.
Philippians 2:12Paul encourages the Philippians to 'continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling,' which resonates with the Corinthian believers' reverent response to spiritual guidance.
1 Thessalonians 2:13This verse describes the Thessalonians receiving God's message as it truly is, the word of God, which powerfully works in them, similar to how the Corinthians' obedience was a sign of genuine spiritual reception.
Hebrews 12:28The author of Hebrews speaks of receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken and serving God acceptably with reverence and awe, emphasizing a solemn and respectful engagement with God's work.
It's not just that they obeyed, but how they received him with "fear and trembling" that truly stirred affection. This wasn't servile terror, but a profound reverence for God's messenger and his message, showing their deep respect for the spiritual authority God had placed over them.
Paul is celebrating the Corinthians' response to his previous letter, which had been stern and corrective. Now, he's overjoyed to hear that they've repented and embraced his teachings, demonstrating a genuine change of heart. This verse highlights their positive reaction, showing how their obedience now prompts deep affection from Titus, who witnessed it firsthand.
Paul is celebrating the Corinthians' response to his previous letter, which had been stern and corrective. Now, he's overjoyed to hear that they've repented and embraced his teachings, demonstrating a genuine change of heart. This verse highlights their positive reaction, showing how their obedience now prompts deep affection from Titus, who witnessed it firsthand.
"And his affection for you is even greater, as he remembers the obedience of you all, how you received him with fear and trembling. I rejoice, because I have complete confidence in you." — It's not just that they obeyed, but how they received him with "fear and trembling" that truly stirred affection. This wasn't servile terror, but a profound reverence for God's messenger and his…
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Last reviewed October 2026
