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"I rejoiced even more."

Text: 2 Corinthians 7:7

INCREASE IN JOY

Paul was happy and comforted by the visit of Titus. His company brought much joy to the heart. But the news he brought with him gave Paul even greater joy.

“And not only by his coming, but also
by the consolation with which he was comforted in you,
when he told us of your earnest desire, your mourning,
your zeal for me, so that I rejoiced even more.”
2 Corinthians 7:7

1. “And not only by his coming”

a) Titus certainly brought joy.

b) The presence of a dearly beloved servant of the Lord always brings joy to the heart.

2. “But also by the consolation with which he was comforted in you”

a) Paul was concerned about the Corinthian church.

b) Some had been very nasty and vicious in their attacks on him.

c) He was concerned about how the Church would treat Titus.

d) Titus came with an encouraging bit of news.

i) He was comforted by those who were faithful in the Corinthian church.

ii) He drew much encouragement from the fellowship he had with the faithful.

3. What Titus observed about the faithful brethren in Corinth

a) There was earnest desire.

i) They had missed Paul.

ii) They longed to see him again.

iii) This was the earnest desire expressed.

b) Your mourning

i) The faithful mourned when they read Paul’s letters.

ii) They grieved deeply when they realised how they had sinned.

iii) There was great sorrow in their hearts.

c) Your zeal for me

i) There were some who remained stubbornly sinful.

ii) But there were others, the faithful who loved Paul.

iii) These were still zealous and they defended him.

4. “So that I rejoiced even more”

What Paul heard brought even greater joy to his heart! His love and his labour in Corinth had not been in vain!