“Have You Tried Tears?”

Evidently some Corinthians passed judgment on Paul too quickly, before hearing from him why he failed to turn up, despite saying that he would come. Now they know that the truth is very different from what they had imagined. The watching world constantly makes allegations and complaints against the church. Very often our accusers have their own axes to grind, but sometimes they have good grounds for their accusations. Peter spelt out only too clearly what is expected of us (1 Pet. 2:12). Daniel is another good example to follow. Those who sought to plot against him could not find any wrongdoing until they promulgated a law that conflicted with the law of his God (Dan. 6:4-5).

We shall never know exactly the problem with the brother in Corinth (5-8), but it was sufficiently serious for Paul to make a painful visit (1) and write a tearful letter (4). William Booth, founder of the Salvation Army, counseled one of his field workers who was at the end of his tether, having tried everything without success in a difficult situation. Booth said, “Have you tried tears?” Paul did try, and it worked! Tears speak of love and anguish and human helplessness; in this sort of situation they invoke God’s compassion and power to bring about the needed transformation. The problem was not swept under the rug or discussed in whispers behind the back of the one concerned. It was properly aired, and due punishment administered (6), followed by collective forgiveness and comfort (7-8).

Under what circumstance, and in what manner, does discipline take place in your church or denomination? Whatever the cause, there is a lot of pain involved–for the leadership, for the perpetrator and for all church members. Properly handled under the leading of the Holy Spirit, however, it can be a therapeutic experience for all concerned. 

How does this passage apply to church discipline and restoration of fallen leaders today? Is there someone you need to forgive?