71 Because God, then, will give us such rewards, dear brothers, let us make ourselves clean from all evil of flesh and spirit, and become completely holy in the fear of God.
2 Let your hearts be open to us: we have done no man wrong, no man has been damaged by us, we have made no profit out of any man, 3 It is not with the purpose of judging you that I say this: for I have said before that you are in our hearts for life and death together. 4 My words to you are without fear, I am full of pride on account of you: I have great comfort and joy in all our troubles.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 7:1-4
Commentary on 2 Corinthians 7:1-4
(Read 2 Corinthians 7:1-4)
The promises of God are strong reasons for us to follow after holiness; we must cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of flesh and spirit. If we hope in God as our Father, we must seek to be holy as he is holy, and perfect as our Father in heaven. His grace, by the influences of his Spirit, alone can purify, but holiness should be the object of our constant prayers. If the ministers of the gospel are thought contemptible, there is danger lest the gospel itself be despised also; and though ministers must flatter none, yet they must be gentle towards all. Ministers may look for esteem and favour, when they can safely appeal to the people, that they have corrupted no man by false doctrines or flattering speeches; that they have defrauded no man; nor sought to promote their own interests so as to hurt any. It was affection to them made the apostle speak so freely to them, and caused him to glory of them, in all places, and upon all occasions.