15 In this confidence I intended at first to come to you, so that you might [1]twice receive a [2] blessing ; 16 [3]that is, to pass [4]your way into Macedonia , and again from Macedonia to come to you, and by you to be helped on my journey to Judea . 17 Therefore , I was not vacillating e when I intended to do this , was I? Or what I purpose , do I purpose according to the flesh , so that with me there will be yes , yes and no , no at the same time? 18 But as God is faithful , our word to you is not yes and no . 19 For the Son of God , Christ Jesus , who was preached among you by us-by me and Silvanus and Timothy -was not yes and no , but is yes in Him. 20 For as many as are the promises of God , in Him they are yes ; therefore also through Him is our Amen to the glory of God through us. 21 Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and anointed us is God , 22 who also sealed us and gave us the Spirit in our hearts as a [5]pledge . 23 But I call God as witness [6]to my soul , that to spare you I did not come again to Corinth . 24 Not that we lord it over your faith , but are workers with you for your joy ; for in your faith you are standing firm .
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 1:15-24
Commentary on 2 Corinthians 1:15-24
(Read 2 Corinthians 1:15-24)
The apostle clears himself from the charge of levity and inconstancy, in not coming to Corinth. Good men should be careful to keep the reputation of sincerity and constancy; they should not resolve, but on careful thought; and they will not change unless for weighty reasons. Nothing can render God's promises more certain: his giving them through Christ, assures us they are his promises; as the wonders God wrought in the life, resurrection, and ascension of his Son, confirm faith. The Holy Spirit makes Christians firm in the faith of the gospel: the quickening of the Spirit is an earnest of everlasting life; and the comforts of the Spirit are an earnest of everlasting joy. The apostle desired to spare the blame he feared would be unavoidable, if he had gone to Corinth before he learned what effect his former letter produced. Our strength and ability are owing to faith; and our comfort and joy must flow from faith. The holy tempers and gracious fruits which attend faith, secure from delusion in so important a matter.