2 Corinthians 1:15 kjv

And in this confidence I was minded to come unto you before, that ye might have a second benefit;

2 Corinthians 1:15 nkjv

And in this confidence I intended to come to you before, that you might have a second benefit?

2 Corinthians 1:15 niv

Because I was confident of this, I wanted to visit you first so that you might benefit twice.

2 Corinthians 1:15 esv

Because I was sure of this, I wanted to come to you first, so that you might have a second experience of grace.

2 Corinthians 1:15 nlt

Since I was so sure of your understanding and trust, I wanted to give you a double blessing by visiting you twice ?

2 Corinthians 1 verses

2 Corinthians 1 15 Meaning

In this verse, Paul articulates his initial, carefully considered plan to visit the Corinthian believers, a plan conceived in his firm conviction regarding their spiritual relationship and shared destiny in Christ. His primary intention was to impart to them further spiritual benefit or grace, a second time experiencing the edifying presence and ministry that he believed would be mutually enriching.

2 Corinthians 1 15 Context

Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians begins with a traditional salutation and moves quickly into a deeply personal defense and explanation of his ministry. The first chapter sets the tone by presenting Paul's gratitude for God's comfort amidst intense suffering (vv. 3-7), acknowledging his affliction in Asia (vv. 8-11), and asserting the purity of his conscience and intentions (vv. 12-14). Verse 15 introduces a crucial topic: Paul's controversial change of travel plans, which had drawn accusations of inconsistency and untrustworthiness from some within the Corinthian church. His defense of this change (extending through 2:4) aims to underscore his integrity, his concern for their spiritual well-being, and the divine faithfulness that undergirds his every "Yes" in ministry. Historically, Corinth was a major Roman provincial capital, a melting pot of cultures and philosophies. The Corinthian believers were influenced by Greco-Roman rhetoric and often expected eloquent, charismatic leaders who delivered on every promise, viewing any deviation as a sign of weakness or duplicity. Paul’s explanation here is a direct counter to such criticisms, affirming his unwavering commitment to them and the Spirit's leading, not human vacillation.

2 Corinthians 1 15 Word analysis

• And (Καὶ - Kai): A simple connective, linking this statement to the preceding defense of his transparent and sincere ministry (v. 12-14). It signifies a continuation of Paul’s explanation of his conduct and integrity.
• in this confidence (ταύτῃ τῇ πεποιθήσει - tautē tē pepoithēsei):
  • Confidence (πεποιθήσει - pepoithēsei): Derived from the verb "to persuade" or "to be convinced," this term signifies a firm conviction, assurance, or trust. It is not self-confidence in a boastful sense but a deeply rooted trust and assurance. Here, it refers to Paul’s confidence in the Corinthians—their understanding, their love for him, and their shared spiritual standing (as described in v. 14, where they acknowledge him as their boast and he as theirs). It suggests his belief that, despite their issues, there was a foundational spiritual bond and mutual appreciation. This confidence stemmed from the work of God's grace in them.
  • In this: Points directly back to the immediately preceding verses (1:12-14) where Paul asserts the sincerity of his conduct, the witness of his conscience, and the Corinthians' partial acknowledgment of him. His plan was based on this existing, though challenged, relationship.
• I intended (ἐβουλόμην - eboulomēn): An imperfect indicative form of βούλομαι (boulomai), meaning "to will, intend, wish, resolve." This verb implies a settled purpose or reasoned decision, a plan formed after deliberation, not a whimsical desire (which would often be expressed by θελω - thelō). Paul is asserting that his original travel plan was carefully considered and deliberate.
• to come (πρὸς ὑμᾶς - pros hymas): "To you," indicating the specific destination of his intended visit.
• before (πρότερον - proteron): "Earlier," "formerly," or "at an earlier time." This word is key to understanding the context; it signals that his initial plan, formed earlier, was subsequently altered, prompting the need for explanation. It sets up the contrast with his revised itinerary described later.
• so that you might have (ἵνα ἔχητε - hina echete): The purpose clause (introduced by ἵνα - hina) clearly states the objective of his intended visit. His desire was not merely social, but purposeful and beneficial for them.
• a second benefit (δευτέραν χάριν - deuteran charin):
  • Second (δευτέραν - deuteran): Implies a first occurrence. This refers to the second time Paul would have brought spiritual enrichment or an outpouring of grace to them, following his initial evangelistic visit (Acts 18:1), which established the Corinthian church and constituted the "first benefit."
  • Benefit (χάριν - charin): This significant word typically translates as "grace," "favor," or "gratuitous gift." In this context, it broadly refers to spiritual blessing, spiritual enrichment, an imparting of divine favor, or renewed joy in God. It would not be primarily a material "benefit," but rather an enhancement of their spiritual standing, faith, and knowledge. Scholars suggest it could mean the joy or spiritual edification his presence would bring, or even two distinct opportunities for gracious interaction as he passed through Corinth on his journey (referencing v. 16's description of a round trip via Corinth). However, for v. 15, the most natural reading emphasizes a further experience of his grace-filled apostolic ministry for their growth. This was not a quid pro quo exchange, but an outpouring stemming from divine grace through his ministry.

2 Corinthians 1 15 Bonus section

• The phrasing "a second benefit" (δευτέραν χάριν) reflects Paul's persistent desire for the Corinthians' spiritual enrichment. It echoes the concept that spiritual grace (χάρις) can be experienced continually and afresh, not as a one-time event but as an ongoing wellspring. Paul saw his presence and ministry as a conduit for this continuous flow of grace.
• The meticulous explanation of his change in plans demonstrates Paul’s profound pastoral care. He could have simply dictated his new itinerary, but he chose to address the underlying suspicions and criticisms directly, revealing the depth of the relational issues present in Corinth and his commitment to rebuilding trust through transparency, rather than simply asserting authority.
• Paul's defense against charges of fickleness ("was I vacillating?" v. 17) points to the high moral and spiritual standard expected of apostolic leaders. He needed to prove his consistency not in mere human promises but in adherence to God's will and truth, as His "Yes" to God is always consistent.

2 Corinthians 1 15 Commentary

Paul's declaration in 2 Corinthians 1:15 is foundational to his defense against accusations of fickle behavior. It highlights that his initial travel plan was not arbitrary but rooted in deep conviction and concern for the Corinthians' spiritual well-being. The "confidence" he speaks of is not merely self-assurance but a reliance on their established spiritual bond in Christ, however strained it might have been at times. His intent was to offer a "second benefit"—a renewed impartation of spiritual grace, edification, and apostolic teaching, building upon the initial foundation he laid when founding their church. This underscores his paternal heart towards them and his ministry's true focus: the spiritual growth and maturity of believers. The entire discussion of his travel plans pivots on this desire to be a channel of God's grace, and the careful explanation serves to safeguard his apostolic integrity and prevent spiritual misunderstanding that could hinder the very "benefit" he longed to bring. This principle extends to all Christian leadership, where sincerity and a clear purpose for edification should underpin actions and plans.