2 Corinthians 2:10-11

Memory Verse

Indeed, to whomever you show grace, I also. For also that which I was gracious towards, if I have been gracious towards anyone, [it is] because of you in the presence of Christ, in order that we are not exploited by Satan. For we are not ignorant of the conclusions of his mind (2 Corinthians 2:10–11).

Although often translated as “forgive,” Paul uses a word that is rooted in grace. Thus, he is being gracious toward others, or showing them favor, by permitting them to fellowship with the saints. Paul extended grace to those who wronged him for the sake of other saints.

In like manner, we are not to hold a grudge against a fellow brother in the Lord. When there has been a genuine change of mind from wrongdoing, we are to be gracious by allowing that saint to participate in the assembly for the benefit it brings them—spiritual maturity. This does not mean ignoring the wrong committed or placing the individual in a position where they could repeat the offense. Such actions would not express love toward another saint. A change of mind is not merely saying one is sorry or feeling remorseful for having wronged someone. Rather, it is a mental attitude marked by a complete rejection of that type of behavior, resulting in a firm resolve never to engage in it again. If restitution can be made, it will be done.

We are to be gracious because we are not ignorant of how Satan’s mind operates. When we withhold favor from others, he will use the grudge we harbor to manipulate our thoughts, leading us to follow his will and act independently of God.

Releasing a grudge or being gracious toward a fellow saint who has caused harm does not mean ignoring their actions simply because they express sorrow without consequence. Such leniency would only enable them to cause further harm. Moreover, we do not have the authority to forgive sins; God alone forgives sins.

Rather than allowing Satan to take advantage of us, let us treat one another as members of the body of Christ, doing all things for the edification of others. Therefore, those who harm others through wrongdoing are to be excommunicated until they have a genuine change of mind. When they repent, they should be welcomed back into fellowship with the saints so that they may grow and mature in Christ, learning to edify the assembly. This mindset and action prevent Satan from taking advantage of us.