Commentaries:
These verses describe how we are supposed to relate to one another in the church. When there is a problem, the ministry is to help solve or mitigate it. A minister is authorized to give godly advice or make godly commands, if necessary. So in Corinth, where a man had taken his father's wife, a grievous sin, Paul had to act quickly but in a way the Corinthians thought was very harsh. His actions caused a bit of conflict between Paul and the Corinthians because circumstances forced him to take stern, decisive measures.
In the vernacular, Paul is saying, "Hey, I had to do this. I did not take this course out of dislike or cruelty toward you. My intention wasn't to hurt you or shame you. I was actually trying to help you. I'm with you. I want to be united with you."
Richard T. Ritenbaugh
Those Who Mourn
Start Your Day with Scripture
Begin your day with God's Word — the Berean brings Scripture and commentary every morning.
Join 150,000+ subscribers growing daily in God's Word.
