2:7 So that contrariwise ye [ought] rather to {f} forgive [him], and comfort [him], lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.
(f) That whereas before you punished him sharply, you should now forgive him.
2:7 Ye [ought] rather to forgive [him]. The Apostle sternly commands excommunication of the offender, but tenderly enjoins forgiveness of the penitent sinner.
2:5-11 The apostle desires them to receive the person who had done wrong, again into their communion; for he was aware of his fault, and much afflicted under his punishment. Even sorrow for sin should not unfit for other duties, and drive to despair. Not only was there danger last Satan should get advantage, by tempting the penitent to hard thoughts of God and religion, and so drive him to despair; but against the churches and the ministers of Christ, by bringing an evil report upon Christians as unforgiving; thus making divisions, and hindering the success of the ministry. In this, as in other things, wisdom is to be used, that the ministry may not be blamed for indulging sin on the one hand, or for too great severity towards sinners on the other hand. Satan has many plans to deceive, and knows how to make a bad use of our mistakes.
