2 Corinthians 7:10
Verse
Context
Paul’s Joy in the Corinthians
9And now I rejoice, not because you were made sorrowful, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you felt the sorrow that God had intended, and so were not harmed in any way by us.10Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation without regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For godly sorrow - That which has the breach of God's holy law for its object. Worketh repentance - A thorough change of mind unto salvation, because the person who feels it cannot rest till he finds pardon through the mercy of God. But the sorrow of the world worketh death - Sorrow for lost goods, lost friends, death of relatives, etc., when it is poignant and deep, produces diseases, increases those that already exist, and often leads men to lay desperate hands on themselves. This sorrow leads to destruction, the other leads to salvation; the one leads to heaven, the other to hell.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
worketh . . . worketh--In the best Greek reading the translation is, "worketh (simply) . . . worketh out." "Sorrow" is not repentance, but, where it is "godly," "worketh" it; that is, contributes or tends to it (the same Greek word is in Rom 13:10). The "sorrow of the world" (that is, such as is felt by the worldly) "worketh out," as its result at last, (eternal) death (the same Greek verb is in Co2 4:17; also see on Co2 4:17). repentance . . . not to be repented of--There is not in the Greek this play on words, so that the word qualified is not "repentance" merely, but "repentance unto salvation"; this, he says, none will ever regret, however attended with "sorrow" at the time. "Repentance" implies a coming to a right mind; "regret" implies merely uneasiness of feeling at the past or present, and is applied even to the remorse of Judas (Mat 27:3; Greek, "stricken with remorse," not as English Version, "repented himself"); so that, though always accompanying repentance, it is not always accompanied by repentance. "Repentance" removes the impediments in the way of "salvation" (to which "death," namely, of the soul, is opposed). "The sorrow of the world" is not at the sin itself, but at its penal consequences: so that the tears of pain are no sooner dried up, than the pleasures of ungodliness are renewed. So Pharaoh, Exo 9:27-30; and Saul, Sa1 15:23-30. Compare Isa 9:13; Rev 16:10-11. Contrast David's "godly sorrow," Sa2 12:13, and Peter's, Mat 26:75.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For godly sorrow worketh repentance unto salvation,.... These words contain a reason, proving that they had received no damage, but profit by the sorrow that had possessed them, from the nature of it, a "godly" sorrow; a sorrow which had God for its author; it did not arise from the power of free will, nor from the dictates of a natural conscience, nor from a work of the law on their hearts, or from a fear of hell and damnation, but it sprung from the free grace of God; it was a gift of his grace, the work of his Spirit, and the produce of his almighty power; being such, which no means, as judgments, mercies, or the most powerful ministry of themselves could effect; it was owing to divine instructions; it was heightened and increased with a discovery of the love of God, and views of pardoning grace and mercy being attended with faith in the Lord Jesus Christ: it had God also for its object, as well as its author; it was a sorrow, , "which is for God", as the Syriac version reads the words, and also the Ethiopic; on the account of God, his honour, interest, and glory; it was a sorrow for sin, because it was committed against a God of infinite holiness, justice, and truth, goodness, grace, and mercy; and it was a sorrow, , "according to God", according to the mind and will of God; it was, as it is rendered by the Arabic version, "grateful to God"; what he took notice of, observed, and approved of; and was also such a sorrow as bore some resemblance to what in God goes by the name of grieving and repenting, as that he had made man, because of sin; there being in it a displicency with sin, an hatred of it, and a repentance that ever it was committed: moreover, this sorrow is further described, from its salutary operation, it "worketh repentance"; it is the beginning of it, a part of it, an essential part of it, without which there is no true repentance; this produces it, issues in it, even in an ingenuous confession of sin, a forsaking of it, and in bringing forth fruits meet for repentance, in the life and conversation: and this repentance is unto salvation; not the cause or author of it, for that is Christ alone; nor the condition of it, but is itself a blessing of salvation, a part of it, the initial part of it, by which, and faith we enter upon the possession of salvation; it is an evidence of interest in it, and issues in the full enjoyment of it: and this, or repentance, is such as is not to be repented of; or that is stable and immovable, as the Vulgate Latin version renders it; which "never returns", or goes back, as the Syriac version, but remains the same not repented of; for to either of them may it be applied: salvation is not to be repented of; it is not repented of by God, who repents not, neither of the thing itself, nor of the way and manner in which it is effected, nor of the persons saved by it, and his choice of them to it; nor is it repented of by them, who believe in Christ to the saving of their souls: nor is true repentance, which is connected with it, to be repented of; God does not repent of giving it, for "his gifts and calling are without repentance"; nor does the repenting sinner repent of it; nor has he any occasion, since it is unto life, even "unto eternal life", as the Ethiopic version here renders it; and as it is called "repentance unto life", in Act 11:18. This sorrow is likewise illustrated by its contrary, but the sorrow of the world worketh death; a worldly sorrow is such, as is common to men of the world, as Cain, Pharaoh, Judas, and others; it springs from worldly selfish principles, and proceeds on worldly views; it is often nothing more than a concern for the loss of worldly things, as riches, honours, &c. or for a disappointment in the gratification of worldly lusts and pleasures: and this worketh death; temporal and eternal death; it sometimes brings diseases and disorders on the body, which issue in death; and sometimes puts men upon destroying themselves, as it did Ahithophel and Judas; it works in the minds of men a fearful apprehension of eternal death, and, if grace prevent not, issues in it.
2 Corinthians 7:10
Paul’s Joy in the Corinthians
9And now I rejoice, not because you were made sorrowful, but because your sorrow led you to repentance. For you felt the sorrow that God had intended, and so were not harmed in any way by us.10Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation without regret, but worldly sorrow brings death.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Messages) Repentance
By Basilea Schlink7.5K51:16RepentancePSA 51:17MAT 3:2ACT 3:192CO 7:10JAS 5:20REV 2:4REV 3:5During World War II, many German people experienced suffering and developed a hunger for the word of God. The speaker received numerous requests for Bible studies and lectures, which brought joy and gratitude. However, a moment of revelation unsettled the speaker, leading them to realize the importance of repentance. The speaker emphasizes that repentance is the gateway to heaven and the heart of the Father, as preached by John the Baptist and Jesus himself. The speaker highlights the human tendency to be apathetic and indifferent towards our own sins, often blaming others or even God. They stress the need to recognize our lack of repentance and turn to God in faith, as He is able to create repentance in our hearts through His Holy Spirit. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross not only destroyed Satan's power but also the hardness of our hearts, enabling us to weep over our sins and the suffering we have caused. The call to repentance is both a command and a promise.
Marks of the Elect
By A.W. Tozer4.2K39:16Elect Of GodMAT 3:11MAT 6:33MAT 16:17JHN 6:37JHN 10:26JHN 14:62CO 7:10In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of moral sensitivity and how it relates to the reception of the gospel. He emphasizes that not everyone is receptive to the message of God, and that there are many who do not respond to it morally. The preacher uses the analogy of rain falling on a fruitful field to illustrate how the gospel can either make a person fruitful or have no effect at all. He then goes on to explain that those who are morally sensitive and responsive to the voice of God are considered blessed, as they have a deeper understanding of the Father and the Son. The preacher concludes by stating that there are five marks that identify those who are receptive to God, and encourages the audience to reflect on these marks to see if they apply to them.
Don't Expect a Perfect Repentance
By Paul Washer3.6K13:19RepentanceMAT 7:7MRK 9:24LUK 18:13ACT 17:30ROM 10:92CO 7:10HEB 12:2In this sermon, the preacher addresses the common struggle of individuals who feel unable to be saved, repent, or believe in God. He acknowledges the superficiality of some salvation offerings and the reaction against it. The preacher emphasizes the importance of looking unto Jesus and placing faith in Him, rather than focusing on the quality or greatness of one's own faith. He cautions against demanding too much of oneself or others in terms of repentance and faith, and highlights the ongoing growth and reality of these aspects in a believer's life.
(Basics) 7. Repentance
By Zac Poonen3.1K12:51MAT 6:24MRK 8:34LUK 14:33ACT 3:19ROM 2:42CO 7:101TH 1:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the difficulty people have in asking for forgiveness due to their pride. He explains that in order to receive forgiveness from God, one must turn towards Him and away from their old way of life. Repentance is described as a simple act of turning around, just like in a military parade. The speaker also highlights the importance of genuine repentance, which is demonstrated through actions and a willingness to make amends with others. The sermon concludes by reminding listeners that forgiveness is not cheap, as it required the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
Repentance (High Quality)
By David Smithers2.4K33:07RepentanceISA 6:5MAT 3:2LUK 13:3ACT 2:38ACT 17:302CO 7:10REV 2:5In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of responding to the glory and majesty of King Jesus. They discuss how worship is a response to God's greatness and encourage the congregation to grow in their worship. The speaker then shifts the focus to repentance, using the example of Isaiah 6 and how Isaiah responded to God's holiness. They highlight the significance of repentance in turning away from our old identity and allowing God to redefine our self-image. The sermon concludes with a passage from Mark 1, where Jesus preaches repentance and calls Simon and Andrew to follow him, leaving behind their identity as fishermen.
Where Did the Puritans Come From?
By J.I. Packer2.0K49:01MAT 11:28ROM 1:182CO 7:10GAL 2:16EPH 2:8JAS 2:171JN 1:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses the factors that contributed to the distinctive nature of the Protestant movement. He identifies four main sectors that played a role in shaping the movement. The first sector is the legacy of Tyndale, which emphasized the lordship of the Bible and the importance of justified men in covenant with God. The second sector is the legacy of Branson, which prioritized repentance in both words and actions. The third sector is the legacy of Cooper and Frankfurt, which highlighted the reality of God's judgment and blessings throughout history. The fourth sector is the emphasis on the authority of the Bible, with Tyndale stressing the need to subject everything in church and faith to the rule of God's Word.
(Beginnings) Repentance
By Zac Poonen1.9K1:02:36MRK 1:14LUK 24:47ACT 2:382CO 7:10JAS 4:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a strong foundation in the Christian life. He compares it to a building without proper foundations, which leads to cracks and problems. The speaker highlights the need for repentance and turning away from sin in order to avoid perishing. He also references the story of the wise and foolish builders, emphasizing the importance of digging deep and building on the rock of Christ. The sermon concludes with the example of Zacchaeus, who demonstrated true repentance by returning money he had wrongfully taken and giving generously to the poor.
Avoiding Sexual Immorality by Shane Idleman and Steve Gallagher
By Steve Gallagher1.6K1:06:02PRO 4:23ROM 6:121CO 6:182CO 7:10JAS 4:8This sermon emphasizes the importance of repentance, restoration, and the need to guard our hearts and minds against the influences of the world, particularly in the realm of sexual sin. It highlights the power of desire, the necessity to stay away from temptation, and the significance of repentance for salvation and restoration. The message underscores the need for a heart transformation and a deep commitment to God's kingdom.
(Compilation) Facts on Revival
By Leonard Ravenhill1.6K13:01PSA 51:10ISA 6:3ROM 8:262CO 7:10EPH 5:27PHP 3:31TH 5:23HEB 12:14JAS 4:8REV 4:8This sermon emphasizes the need for believers to pay the price for revival, to sanctify their whole lives, and to seek a deep, speechless form of worship. It recounts the impact of past revivals where individuals fully surrendered to God, leading to transformation and the spread of revival. The importance of being a prophet, seeing what others don't, and suffering for the sake of others is highlighted. The sermon challenges listeners to seek purity, holiness, and a God-filled personality, emphasizing the necessity of the Holy Spirit in true evangelism and revival.
Prayer
By Milton Green1.3K04:36MAT 6:33ROM 3:23ROM 12:22CO 7:10JAS 5:161PE 2:241JN 1:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of recognizing and accepting the truth of God's word. He criticizes the tendency of people to attend church but not truly allow the word of God to have an impact on their lives. The preacher urges the congregation to understand that salvation is about being saved from the wrath of God and not just about pleasing the flesh or following traditions. He emphasizes the need for repentance and prayer of faith, as well as confessing sins to one another, in order to experience restoration and righteousness in God's eyes. The sermon concludes with a plea for everyone to make things right with God and to rely on the grace and mercy found in Jesus' sacrifice on the cross.
This Heart Is Too Small - Part 7
By Joshua Daniel1.1K08:14PSA 51:10PRO 28:13MAT 5:13ACT 3:19ROM 12:22CO 7:10EPH 4:30JAS 4:81JN 1:9This sermon emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions, including financial obligations and societal impact. It calls for repentance and zealousness in acknowledging faults, seeking forgiveness, and striving to be Christ-like individuals who positively influence society. The message also addresses the need to cleanse oneself, seek God's forgiveness, and be led by the Holy Spirit.
Hardcore Christianity - Part 2
By Jose Muniz90913:45PRO 25:28ISA 41:102CO 7:101JN 2:6This sermon emphasizes the importance of realizing that Jesus is always with us, urging believers to have a repentant heart, discipline in their spiritual walk, and a godly character that reflects Christ. It highlights the need for immediate repentance when sin occurs and the significance of maintaining discipline in prayer and Bible study. The message stresses the importance of character, integrity, and hard work as essential aspects of living a life dedicated to Christ.
Hope for the Backslider
By Shane Idleman78825:49PSA 51:10PRO 28:13ISA 55:7LUK 1:76ACT 3:19ROM 10:92CO 7:10HEB 12:6JAS 4:8REV 3:19This sermon emphasizes the importance of repentance and turning back to God to restore relationships, receive answers to prayers, and experience joy, peace, and contentment. It highlights that repentance is essential for receiving further guidance from God and restoring broken areas in life. The speaker stresses that repentance leads to a renewed relationship with God, bridging the gap caused by sin and judgment, and ultimately, turning the heart back towards the Father.
Audio Sermon: No Tears
By R. Edward Miller73850:282KI 20:5PSA 38:18PSA 84:6PSA 126:5ISA 53:3JER 31:12LUK 6:48ACT 20:192CO 7:10This sermon emphasizes the importance of allowing God to break through our emotional barriers, encouraging the expression of genuine emotions before God. It highlights the significance of tears as a valid expression of deep emotions like sorrow, repentance, and longing for God, contrasting them with emotionalism. The speaker urges the congregation to seek God's liberation from fear and shame, to be finely tuned to the Spirit, and to embrace the full spectrum of emotions as a gift from God.
The Marks of True Repentance
By Richard Owen Roberts7101:04:10PSA 51:17PRO 28:13MAT 3:8LUK 13:3ACT 3:19ROM 2:42CO 7:10JAS 4:82PE 3:9REV 3:19This sermon emphasizes the importance of true repentance, highlighting the need for ongoing repentance, repentance of both actions and essence of sin, and distinguishing between self-centered and Christ-centered repentance. It discusses the significance of earnestness, vindication, indignation, fear, longing, zeal, and avenging of wrong as marks of genuine repentance, urging individuals to examine their repentance and ensure it is focused on Christ.
Overcoming the Pain of Regret
By Shane Idleman57949:16PSA 1:1PSA 107:10MAT 21:282CO 7:10This sermon delves into the topic of regret, focusing on overcoming the pain of regret by acknowledging the harm it causes, the endless cycle it creates, and the need to turn to God for restoration. It emphasizes the importance of encountering the pain of discipline over the pain of regret, highlighting the power of repentance and the hope found in rebuilding one's life with God. The sermon concludes with a call to examine one's heart, repent, and surrender to God to experience salvation and transformation.
To Fight Against Sin
By Basilea Schlink54604:35Radio ShowMAT 6:332CO 7:10EPH 6:12HEB 12:4JAS 4:71JN 1:9REV 3:21In this sermon, Basilis Shlink emphasizes the importance of recognizing and repenting for our sins. He encourages listeners to pray for the Spirit of Repentance and to accept the conviction of their sins through the guidance of others. Shlink emphasizes that true repentance goes beyond acknowledging one's sins, but also understanding the pain and suffering they have caused to Jesus, as well as to our families and neighbors. He urges believers to fight against their sinful nature, even to the point of shedding blood, in order to shine forth the love of Jesus and become overcomers.
Repentance (June 2002)
By Richard Owen Roberts52859:14RepentanceHOS 4:1HOS 4:6MAT 6:33ROM 1:18ROM 2:42CO 7:10In this sermon, Richard Owen Roberts discusses the consequences of men who continue to walk in deception and disregard the law of God. He quotes scripture from Hosea 4:1 and 4:6, emphasizing that the lack of truth, mercy, and knowledge of God in the land leads to destruction and calamity. Roberts also highlights the need for repentance and returning to God's will, stating that victory over sin comes from a deep desire for God and a fear of causing Him to depart. He mentions his new book, "Repentance, the first word of the Gospel," which delves into the biblical concept of repentance.
Gospel Meetings s.h.c.- 01 for Me to Live Is Christ
By Stan Ford45642:43PSA 32:1MAT 4:17LUK 15:24ACT 20:212CO 7:10PHP 1:2HEB 13:5In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the story of the rich farmer from Luke 12. The preacher highlights how the pursuit of material possessions and worldly happiness can lead to emptiness and foolishness. He emphasizes the importance of repentance and faith in Jesus as the true path to happiness and forgiveness. The preacher encourages the congregation to seek a deeper relationship with God and to find true joy in Christ rather than in worldly things or theories of men.
(Radical Jesus) 14 Radical Surrender
By Glenn Meldrum42821:51Surrender2CO 7:10GAL 5:22In this sermon, Glenn Meldrum discusses the concept of surrendering to God and the consequences of not doing so. He explains that worldly sorrow, where people acknowledge their sins but continue to cling to them, prevents true repentance and deliverance. Meldrum emphasizes the importance of hating one's sin and seeking freedom from it in order to experience God's grace. He also highlights the idea that everyone is a slave to something or someone, either to God leading to righteousness or to sin leading to death. Meldrum concludes by stating that surrendering to God is essential for a fulfilled life and warns of the resistance from the world and hell when people start to understand their need for surrender.
The Sorrow of the Converted
By Carter Conlon31638:43SorrowROM 6:12CO 7:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of finding refuge and safety in God. He discusses the sorrow that comes with true conversion and the need for a repentant heart. The preacher highlights seven specific areas where individuals may experience sorrow and conviction, such as living ungodly lives, being covetous, speaking wrongly against others, and not loving God wholeheartedly. The sermon also draws parallels between the days of Noah and the present time, emphasizing the urgency of preparing for Christ's return.
What Is Repentance?
By G.W. North1811:50:46RepentanceTransformationPSA 51:10EZK 18:30MAT 4:17MRK 1:15LUK 13:3ACT 2:38ACT 3:19ROM 2:42CO 7:101JN 1:9G.W. North emphasizes the critical nature of repentance in the Christian faith, explaining that true repentance is not merely feeling sorry for one's sins but involves a profound change of mind and heart towards God. He illustrates that many people experience temporary blessings without understanding the deeper need for repentance, which is essential for entering into a true relationship with God. North highlights the consistent biblical call to repentance, from John the Baptist to the apostles, asserting that without it, one cannot fully embrace the eternal blessings of God. He warns against self-deception and emphasizes that true repentance leads to a transformative experience, allowing individuals to receive God's grace and forgiveness. Ultimately, North calls for a genuine acknowledgment of sin and a heartfelt return to God as the only path to salvation.
Beware of Leaven
By Phil Beach Jr.301:09:09The Danger of SinFalse TeachingSpiritual VigilanceEZK 9:4MAT 16:6JHN 1:29ROM 12:21CO 5:62CO 7:10TIT 2:12HEB 1:31PE 4:17REV 1:9Phil Beach Jr. warns against the spiritual dangers of leaven, emphasizing the need for vigilance in our hearts and homes. He highlights the importance of recognizing the leaven that corrupts our lives and the church, urging believers to seek a fresh vision of the unleavened Christ. The sermon calls for accountability and transparency in our relationships, especially within families, to combat the subtle infiltration of sin. Beach stresses that true revival comes from a deep encounter with the moral majesty of Jesus, which leads to genuine repentance and transformation. Ultimately, he encourages the congregation to run to Christ for healing and strength in these perilous times.
The House of God Lies in Ruin - Repentance or Remorse
By Phil Beach Jr.2756:27RepentanceSpiritual Growth2CH 7:14PSA 51:10EZK 18:30MAT 4:17LUK 13:3ACT 3:192CO 7:10JAS 4:81JN 1:9REV 3:19Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the critical need for genuine repentance in the church, warning that without it, believers risk spiritual stagnation and hardening of the heart. He explains that true repentance goes beyond mere remorse or feeling sorry for sins; it requires a heartfelt change and commitment to God. Beach urges the congregation to reflect on their spiritual condition and to seek a lifestyle of repentance, as it is essential for continuing to grow in faith and to be used by God. He highlights that God's mercy calls us to turn back to Him, and that unrepentant hearts can lead to spiritual captivity. The sermon concludes with a call to action for individuals to seek accountability and support from one another in their journey of repentance.
The House of God Lies in Ruin - Final Thoughts on Repentance
By Phil Beach Jr.2344:06Spiritual RenewalRepentance2CO 7:10Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the critical need for genuine repentance in the church, warning that unthankfulness and spiritual complacency can lead to ruin. He outlines the characteristics of true repentance, including a deep concern for sin, a desire to clear oneself, and a holy fear of God. Beach urges believers to seek a heart capable of repentance, to recognize the dangers of false repentance, and to prioritize God's interests over their own. He calls for a remnant that will repent, obey God's voice, and fear Him, thereby restoring the house of God. The sermon concludes with a heartfelt prayer for mercy and transformation.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For godly sorrow - That which has the breach of God's holy law for its object. Worketh repentance - A thorough change of mind unto salvation, because the person who feels it cannot rest till he finds pardon through the mercy of God. But the sorrow of the world worketh death - Sorrow for lost goods, lost friends, death of relatives, etc., when it is poignant and deep, produces diseases, increases those that already exist, and often leads men to lay desperate hands on themselves. This sorrow leads to destruction, the other leads to salvation; the one leads to heaven, the other to hell.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
worketh . . . worketh--In the best Greek reading the translation is, "worketh (simply) . . . worketh out." "Sorrow" is not repentance, but, where it is "godly," "worketh" it; that is, contributes or tends to it (the same Greek word is in Rom 13:10). The "sorrow of the world" (that is, such as is felt by the worldly) "worketh out," as its result at last, (eternal) death (the same Greek verb is in Co2 4:17; also see on Co2 4:17). repentance . . . not to be repented of--There is not in the Greek this play on words, so that the word qualified is not "repentance" merely, but "repentance unto salvation"; this, he says, none will ever regret, however attended with "sorrow" at the time. "Repentance" implies a coming to a right mind; "regret" implies merely uneasiness of feeling at the past or present, and is applied even to the remorse of Judas (Mat 27:3; Greek, "stricken with remorse," not as English Version, "repented himself"); so that, though always accompanying repentance, it is not always accompanied by repentance. "Repentance" removes the impediments in the way of "salvation" (to which "death," namely, of the soul, is opposed). "The sorrow of the world" is not at the sin itself, but at its penal consequences: so that the tears of pain are no sooner dried up, than the pleasures of ungodliness are renewed. So Pharaoh, Exo 9:27-30; and Saul, Sa1 15:23-30. Compare Isa 9:13; Rev 16:10-11. Contrast David's "godly sorrow," Sa2 12:13, and Peter's, Mat 26:75.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For godly sorrow worketh repentance unto salvation,.... These words contain a reason, proving that they had received no damage, but profit by the sorrow that had possessed them, from the nature of it, a "godly" sorrow; a sorrow which had God for its author; it did not arise from the power of free will, nor from the dictates of a natural conscience, nor from a work of the law on their hearts, or from a fear of hell and damnation, but it sprung from the free grace of God; it was a gift of his grace, the work of his Spirit, and the produce of his almighty power; being such, which no means, as judgments, mercies, or the most powerful ministry of themselves could effect; it was owing to divine instructions; it was heightened and increased with a discovery of the love of God, and views of pardoning grace and mercy being attended with faith in the Lord Jesus Christ: it had God also for its object, as well as its author; it was a sorrow, , "which is for God", as the Syriac version reads the words, and also the Ethiopic; on the account of God, his honour, interest, and glory; it was a sorrow for sin, because it was committed against a God of infinite holiness, justice, and truth, goodness, grace, and mercy; and it was a sorrow, , "according to God", according to the mind and will of God; it was, as it is rendered by the Arabic version, "grateful to God"; what he took notice of, observed, and approved of; and was also such a sorrow as bore some resemblance to what in God goes by the name of grieving and repenting, as that he had made man, because of sin; there being in it a displicency with sin, an hatred of it, and a repentance that ever it was committed: moreover, this sorrow is further described, from its salutary operation, it "worketh repentance"; it is the beginning of it, a part of it, an essential part of it, without which there is no true repentance; this produces it, issues in it, even in an ingenuous confession of sin, a forsaking of it, and in bringing forth fruits meet for repentance, in the life and conversation: and this repentance is unto salvation; not the cause or author of it, for that is Christ alone; nor the condition of it, but is itself a blessing of salvation, a part of it, the initial part of it, by which, and faith we enter upon the possession of salvation; it is an evidence of interest in it, and issues in the full enjoyment of it: and this, or repentance, is such as is not to be repented of; or that is stable and immovable, as the Vulgate Latin version renders it; which "never returns", or goes back, as the Syriac version, but remains the same not repented of; for to either of them may it be applied: salvation is not to be repented of; it is not repented of by God, who repents not, neither of the thing itself, nor of the way and manner in which it is effected, nor of the persons saved by it, and his choice of them to it; nor is it repented of by them, who believe in Christ to the saving of their souls: nor is true repentance, which is connected with it, to be repented of; God does not repent of giving it, for "his gifts and calling are without repentance"; nor does the repenting sinner repent of it; nor has he any occasion, since it is unto life, even "unto eternal life", as the Ethiopic version here renders it; and as it is called "repentance unto life", in Act 11:18. This sorrow is likewise illustrated by its contrary, but the sorrow of the world worketh death; a worldly sorrow is such, as is common to men of the world, as Cain, Pharaoh, Judas, and others; it springs from worldly selfish principles, and proceeds on worldly views; it is often nothing more than a concern for the loss of worldly things, as riches, honours, &c. or for a disappointment in the gratification of worldly lusts and pleasures: and this worketh death; temporal and eternal death; it sometimes brings diseases and disorders on the body, which issue in death; and sometimes puts men upon destroying themselves, as it did Ahithophel and Judas; it works in the minds of men a fearful apprehension of eternal death, and, if grace prevent not, issues in it.