Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary 2 Corinthians 2:13

"I had no relief for my spirit, because I found not Titus my brother: but taking my leave of them, I went forth into Macedonia." — 2 Corinthians 2:13 (ASV)

This is the final section in Paul’s explanation of his recent conduct (see the introduction for more on the historical events). Titus had been dispatched to Corinth with the “letter of tears” while Paul continued work in and around Ephesus (cf. Acts 19:22b). His departure for Troas, mentioned here, was probably precipitated by the Demetrius riot (Acts 19:23–41). Evidently Paul had already planned to leave the city, for when he sent Titus to Corinth, he had arranged to meet him at Troas, or, failing that, probably at Philippi.

We may safely assume that Paul actually preached in Troas, though v.12 speaks only of his intent. He would recognize an open “door” of opportunity only after grasping the evangelistic opportunities initially afforded by the Lord. But evangelism was curtailed because of Paul’s restless spirit (perhaps seen as a device used by Satan, cf. v.11). This disquiet (7:5–6) was caused by several factors: (1) the disheartening opposition at Ephesus, forcing his premature departure; (2) persistent uncertainty and fears concerning the situation at Corinth (7:5b); (3) Titus’s nonarrival; and (4) concern for the safety of Titus in travel (note 7:6b–7a), particularly if he was carrying the completed Corinthian collection.

The city of Troas, the ruins of which are seen here, played a significant role in the life of the apostle Paul. On his second missionary journey he received a vision here of a man from Macedonia, beckoning him to evangelize their area (Acts 16:8–10). Now on his third journey, he once again landed in Troas, though he only stayed a short while.