2 Corinthians 7:12
Wherefore, though I wrote unto you, I did it not for his cause that had done the wrong, nor for his cause that suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear unto you.
2 Corinthians 7:12 · King James Version
Meaning
Paul wrote to the Corinthians not to condemn or justify the wrongdoer or the victim in a particular situation, but to show his care and concern for the well-being of the entire community. It was important for Paul that the Corinthians understood that his actions were not driven by personal bias or favoritism towards one party over the other, but rather by his deep concern for their spiritual welfare in the eyes of God. By addressing the issue at hand and emphasizing the importance of unity and collective well-being, Paul sought to demonstrate the love and care he had for the Corinthians as a whole. This verse encapsulates the broader theme of Paul's letters, which often stress the importance of community, love, and harmony among believers, rather than focusing on individual grievances or conflicts. Through his words, Paul wanted to remind the Corinthians of the overarching goal of building a strong and supportive Christian community, rooted in love and faith in God.
Theological Overview
In this verse, the Apostle Paul is addressing a situation of conflict within the Corinthians community. He clarifies that his intention in writing to them was not to take sides between the wrongdoer and the one who suffered the wrong. Instead, his writing was motivated by a desire to show his care for the Corinthians in the presence of God. This highlights Paul's commitment to the spiritual well-being of the Corinthians, emphasizing the importance of maintaining unity and love within the Christian community. The theological interpretation of this verse underscores the Christian value of responding to conflict with grace and humility, prioritizing love and reconciliation over judgment and division. By focusing on the broader context of God's love and care for his people, Paul aims to encourage the Corinthians to reflect the same care and compassion in their relationships with one another.
2 Corinthians 7:12 in other translations
American Standard Version
So although I wrote unto you, I [wrote] not for his cause that did the wrong, nor for his cause that suffered the wrong, but that your earnest care for us might be made manifest unto you in the sight of God.
World English Bible
So although I wrote to you, I wrote not for his cause that did the wrong, nor for his cause that suffered the wrong, but that your earnest care for us might be revealed in you in the sight of God.
Douay-Rheims
Wherefore although I wrote to you, it was not for his sake that did the wrong, nor for him that suffered it: but to manifest our carefulness that we have for you
Geneva Bible (1599)
Wherefore, though I wrote vnto you, I did not it for his cause that had done the wrong, neither for his cause that had the iniurie, but that our care toward you in the sight of God might appeare vnto you.