2 Corinthians 7: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 2 Corinthians 7 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Paul calls the Corinthians to cleanse themselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God (v. 1). He urges them to open their hearts to him, asserting he has wronged no one and has no ill intentions toward them (vv.

Key verse

“For godly sorrow produces repentance to salvation, which brings no regret. But the sorrow of the world produces death.”
2 Corinthians 7:10 (WEB)

Outline

2 Corinthians 7:1 Call to Purity and Holiness
2 Corinthians 7:2–3 Affection and Integrity
2 Corinthians 7:4–5 Affliction and Boldness
2 Corinthians 7:6–7 Comfort Through Titus
2 Corinthians 7:8–10 Sorrow Leading to Repentance
2 Corinthians 7:11–12 Demonstration of Earnestness
2 Corinthians 7:13–16 Joy in Their Obedience

Discussion questions

In v4, what does Paul mean when he says he is 'filled with comfort'?
What does Titus report about the Corinthian church in v7?
Paul’s statement in v8 about his regret: how can he both regret and not regret his letter?
In v10, what distinguishes 'godly sorrow' from 'the sorrow of the world'?
When have you experienced 'godly sorrow' that led to a positive change in your life?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 2 Corinthians 7: Matthew 5, Hebrews 12, 2 Corinthians 2.

Before next time: read 2 Corinthians 8.