2 Corinthians 7:4 - Exposition

Boldness of speech. St. Paul feels that he may address them with perfect frankness and openness ( 2 Corinthians 3:12 ). My glorying of you. "My boasting on your account". I am filled with comfort. "I have been filled with the consolation." "Consolation" is the word which occurs so frequently in 2 Corinthians 1:3 , 2 Corinthians 1:4 . I am exceeding joyful. "I superabound in my joy" ( 2 Corinthians 2:2-14 ). In all our tribulation. The clause belongs to both the preceding clauses. Joy in the very midst of affliction was an essentially Christian blessing ( Philippians 2:17 ).

"Thou shalt have joy in sadness soon;

The pure calm hope be thine

Which brightens the Eastern moon,

When day's wild lights decline."

(See 2 Corinthians 6:10 ; Galatians 5:22 ; Romans 14:17 ; John 15:11 .)