2 Corinthians 12:21
And lest, when I come again, my God will humble me among you, and that I shall bewail many which have sinned already, and have not repented of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they have committed.
2 Corinthians 12:21 · King James Version
Meaning
Within this verse, the apostle Paul is expressing his concern for the church in Corinth. He is worried that upon his return, he will be humbled by the fact that many individuals within the congregation have not repented of their sins. Paul is particularly troubled by the presence of uncleanness, fornication, and lasciviousness among the members of the church. He understands the importance of spiritual purity and believes that true repentance is necessary for maintaining a strong relationship with God. The verse serves as a reminder to the Corinthians and to all Christians that repentance is a crucial aspect of faith. It emphasizes the need to turn away from sin and seek forgiveness in order to experience God's grace and mercy. Through his words, Paul encourages believers to reflect on their actions and strive to live a life that is pleasing to God.
Theological Overview
This verse from 2 Corinthians 12:21 sheds light on the theme of repentance and accountability within the context of the Christian community. The Apostle Paul expresses his concern that upon his return, he may be humbled by the unrepentant actions of some members of the church. The language used in this verse emphasizes the seriousness of the sins being committed, including uncleanness, fornication, and lasciviousness. Through a theological interpretation, we can glean that Paul is urging the Corinthians to turn away from their sinful ways and seek forgiveness from God. The word 'bewail' suggests a deep sorrow and lamentation over the spiritual state of those who have not repented. This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of repentance, forgiveness, and spiritual growth within the Christian community, urging believers to heed the call to turn away from sin and embrace a life of righteousness.
2 Corinthians 12:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
lest again when I come my God should humble me before you, and I should mourn for many of them that have sinned heretofore, and repented not of the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness which they committed.
World English Bible
that again when I come my God would humble me before you, and I would mourn for many of those who have sinned before now, and not repented of the uncleanness and sexual immorality and lustfulness which they committed.
Douay-Rheims
Lest again, when I come, God humble me among you: and I mourn many of them that sinned before and have not done penance for the uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness that they have committed.
Geneva Bible (1599)
I feare least when I come againe, my God abase me among you, and I shall bewaile many of them which haue sinned already, and haue not repented of the vncleannesse, and fornication, and wantonnesse which they haue committed.