John Calvin Commentary 2 Corinthians 2:3

"And I wrote this very thing, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow from them of whom I ought to rejoice; having confidence in you all, that my joy is [the joy] of you all." — 2 Corinthians 2:3 (ASV)

I had written to you. As he had said a little before, that he delayed coming to them so that he might not come a second time in sorrow and with severity (2 Corinthians 2:1), so now he also lets them know that he came the first time in sadness by a letter, that they might not have occasion to feel this severity when he was present with them.

Therefore, they have no ground to complain of that former sadness, in which he desired to promote their welfare. He even goes a step further by stating that, when writing, he did not wish to cause them grief or to give any expression of displeasure, but, on the contrary, to give proof of his attachment and affection towards them. In this way, if there was any degree of keenness in the letter, he does not merely soften it, but even shows graciousness and gentleness.

When, however, he confesses afterwards what he here denies, he appears to contradict himself. I answer that there is no inconsistency, for he does not later confess that it was his ultimate object to grieve the Corinthians, but that this was the means by which he endeavored to lead them to true joy. However, before stating this, he speaks here simply about his design. He passes over in silence, or delays mentioning for a short time, the means which were not so agreeable.

Having confidence. This confidence he exercises towards the Corinthians so that they, in turn, may be persuaded of his friendly disposition. For he who hates is envious; but where joy is shared, there must, in that case, be perfect love. If, however, the Corinthians are not in accordance with Paul’s opinion and judgment concerning them, they shamefully disappoint him.