For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.
Sufferings - in contrast with "salvation" (2 Corinthians 1:6); as "tribulation" (of mind), with comfort or "consolation."
Of Christ - (cf. Colossians 1:24.) The sufferings endured, whether by Himself or by His Church, with which he identified Himself, are "the sufferings of Christ" (Matthew 25:40; Matthew 25:45; Acts 4:1; 1 John 4:17-21). Christ calls His people's sufferings His own --
(1) Because of the sympathy and mystical union between Him and us (Romans 8:17; 1 Corinthians 4:10; Hebrews 2:17-18). Christ's own sufferings are revived in His people's (2 Corinthians 4:10).
(2) They are borne for His sake.
(3) They tend to His glory (Ephesians 4:1; 1 Peter 4:14; 1 Peter 4:16).
Abound in us - Greek, 'abound unto us.' The order of the Greek is more forcible than in the English version, 'even so through Christ aboundeth also our comfort.' The sufferings (plural) are many, but the consolation (though singular) swallows up all. Comfort preponderates in this letter, as now by the first letter most of the Corinthians had been much impressed.