2 Corinthians 1:23-24, Helpers of Your Joy

2 Corinthians 1:23-24 Moreover I call God for a record upon my soul, that to spare you I came not as yet unto Corinth. Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand.

The Apostle Paul is said to “spare” the church of Corinth of the disciplinary actions that he would otherwise have to take against them had his trip not been delayed. He knew that when his planned trip to Corinth did not come to pass, it has caused some distruption as they were expecting him.

He cited that his purpose in coming was to strengthen them in the faith and help increase their joy in God. His purpose was not to  inflict pain in meting hash discipline against them although it was in his authority as an apostle to do so. His motive was out of love for the brethren in Corinth.

This, he called upon God as his witness to his sincerity toward helping them in their spiritual well-being. Amen.