2 Corinthians 7:9-11

Godly sorrow works repentance 2 Corinthians 7:9-11: Paul rejoiced because their sorrow and hurt feelings caused them to turn back to God. He had no desire to harm or damage them in any way. He only wanted to help. His hard letter had benefited the church at Corinth. These people were sorry for their sins because they had offended God. This led to true repentance. Godly sorrow produces repentance that leads to spiritual life. Worldly sorrow only brings physical and spiritual death.

Godly sorrow caused the brethren to be concerned about their duty to God. "For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death." (2 Corinthians 7:10) When they did their duty before God then they could speak in their own defense. They felt indig-nation when they faced the guilt of tolerating the fornicating brother in their fellowship. These brethren became pure when they practiced the discipline required by God. Once that was done they were no longer guilty.