3 And I wrote this very thing in order that when I* came, I would not experience sorrow from those who ought to have made me glad, because I* have confidence about you all, that my joy ⌊belongs to all of you⌋a. 4 For out of great distress and anguish of heart I wrote to you through many tears, not so that you may be caused to be sad, but so that you may know the love that I have especially for you.

Forgive and Comfort the Offender

5 But if anyone has caused sorrow, he has not caused me sorrow, but ⌊to some degree⌋b—⌊in order not to say too much⌋c—to all of you. 6 This punishment by the majority is sufficient for such a person. 7 So then, you should rather forgive and comfort him, lest somehow this person should be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. 8 Therefore I urge you to confirm your love for him. 9 Because for this reason also I wrote, in order that I could know your proven character, whether you are obedient in everything. 10 Now to whomever you forgive anything, I also do; for indeed, whatever I have forgiven, if I have forgiven anything, it is ⌊for your sake⌋d in the presence of Christ, 11 in order that we may not be exploited by Satan (for we are not ignorant of his schemes).