2 Corinthians 7:10
For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.
2 Corinthians 7:10
This verse sharpens the distinction between two sources of sorrow: godly sorrow that brings repentance leading to salvation and worldly sorrow that produces death. The Corinthians’ godly sorrow produced lasting change and restoration, while worldly sorrow—rooted in fear, guilt, or self-pity—crumbles under pressure. The phrase “not to be repented of” signals a change of heart that aligns with eternal outcomes—salvation secured by God. Paul’s caution is not against sorrow itself but against forms of sorrow that do not yield repentance or that rely on human strategies rather than God’s grace. The context involves a corrective letter and its mixed reception; the real measure of outcomes is life transformation, not outward compliance or emotional reaction.
The contrast reveals the gospel’s power to reorient desire and motive. Godly sorrow stems from recognizing sin in light of God’s character and promises, producing repentance that confirms one’s relationship with God. It anchors salvation in grace rather than human effort, while worldly sorrow can lead to despair, withdrawal, or moral stagnation. This verse thus affirms the necessity of repentance as a continuous dimension of faith, not a one-time event. It also underscores the seriousness with which sin is viewed in the Christian life and the hope that genuine repentance brings new life.
If you’re facing remorse over sin, pursue godly sorrow: acknowledge what you did, grieve its impact, and commit to concrete changes that align with God’s standards. Avoid wallowing in guilt that leads to hopelessness; instead, lean into God’s mercy and seek restoration with those harmed. In communities, provide spaces where repentance can be practiced safely and growth rewarded. A practical step: identify a recurring pattern, confess it to God, confess to someone trusted who can hold you accountable, and set a specific plan to break the pattern over the next 30 days.
Cross-References: Luke 15:7; 2 Chronicles 7:14; Psalm 51:10-12; Ezekiel 18:30-32; James 4:8