2 Corinthians 2:6-7 6 For such a one, this punishment by the majority is enough, 7 so you should rather turn to forgive and comfort him, or he may be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow.
Social pressure can bring change when a person feels isolated or shamed by others. Paul hopes that the shame felt by the person or persons who have done wrong will lead them to change their ways. It appears that this is what has happened in Corinth. The church recognized the wrong of this person, which resulted in a form of punishment by many people in the church experienced as shame or ostracization from the group. This type of social pressure does not work so well in some cultures that are highly individualistic. Many people will just simply leave for another group that will accept them. This type of fleeing to another group or leaving should not be viewed as repentance or restoration. Those who do wrong must face those they have wronged and seek forgiveness, even if it brings great shame.
This punishment had its positive effect in that this person recognized the wrong and wanted to be restored. So, Paul directs the church to forgive the wrong. If a person is truly repentant or even needs help with confession, the church must be willing to forgive. Full restoration to positions of leadership may take longer or many not happen at all. The church should also comfort those who have repented and have felt isolated and shamed. The word for “comfort” is the same one used in 1:3-9. As the temple of the Holy “Comforter,” the church can serve as God’s representative to restore people to a right relationship with God and others. This is a powerful tool, position, and privilege. The church, especially in a high group context, has an important job to do with both convicting sinners and restoring the repentant.
For older posts, click here.