And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation.
We be afflicted, it is for your consolation. Because our afflictions are for the service of the Gospel, you share in our afflictions, and so in our consolation. Their hearts were mirrors reflecting the likenesses of each other (Philippians 2:26-27) (Bengel). Alike the apostle's afflictions and consolations tend, as in him, so in them, by communion with him, to the their consolation (2 Corinthians 1:4; 2 Corinthians 4:15). The Greek х thlibometha (G2346)], "afflicted," is the same as before, and ought to be translated, 'whether we be in tribulations.'
Which is effectual - literally, worketh effectually.
In the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer - not similar sufferings, but "the same;" love for Paul making the Corinthians feel his sufferings their own. 'Aleph (') A C, Vulgate, transfer 'which is effectual in enduring the same,' etc., so as to follow the second "consolation," and omit the second "and salvation." The received order is good sense, Our affliction is for your consolation and salvation, which worketh (or is done) effectually in your enduring our sufferings. B Delta G f g support it. Comfort is felt in sharing the sufferings of those we love, and "salvation" - i:e., edification-is promoted thereby. Here follows, in some oldest manuscripts (not as the English version in the beginning of 2 Corinthians 1:7), the clause, 'And our hope is stedfast on your behalf' х huper (G5228)]. 'Aleph (') supports the English version.