Definition: For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly complex and poetic passage from 2 Corinthians 7:10. It's a really rich idea, and it’s often misunderstood. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse speaks about the difference between our internal sorrow (which we should be striving for) and the external sadness of the world. It suggests that true repentance – turning away from sin and seeking God – is a painful, almost desperate effort driven by a desire for salvation. Let's unpack it piece by piece: "For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of..." This is the core of the message. "Godly sorrow" means sorrow born out of a deep love and concern for God and what’s right. It's not just sadness or regret; it’s a sorrow that’s fueled by a desire to be reconciled with God and find eternal life. It’s a sorrow focused on salvation – wanting to be saved from sin and death. "...but the sorrow of the world worketh death." This is where it gets really powerful. "The world" represents humanity – our tendency to focus on things that are temporary, flawed, and ultimately meaningless (like material possessions, power struggles, or ego). “Worketh” means it does something. “Death” here isn’t literal death, but a spiritual death - a loss of hope, peace, and connection with God. It's the influence of negative things that pull us away from what truly matters. So, what does this mean practically? This verse is telling us: Don't let the world’s negativity consume you: It's easy to get caught up in worldly concerns and become sad when things aren't perfect. But true repentance – driven by a desire for God – can be a painful, almost agonizing process. Focus on your own heart: The verse encourages us to prioritize our relationship with God above all else. It’s about seeking Him and aligning ourselves with His will. It's a call to action: It’s not enough to simply feel sorry; we need to actively work towards a life that reflects the character of God. In essence, it’s a warning against complacency and a reminder that true spiritual growth requires a constant effort of repentance and devotion. Important Note: The verse is often interpreted symbolically, and its meaning can be complex. It's not meant to be taken literally about any kind of sadness. --- Resources for Further Exploration (Optional): Bible Gateway: [https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/2 Corinthians/7:10](https://www.biblegateway.com/resources/2 Corinthians/7:10) - Provides context and different interpretations. Insights Bible: [https://insightsbiblestudy.com/2-corinthians-7-10/](https://insightsbiblestudy.com/2-corinthians-7-10/) - Offers a detailed explanation with verses and commentary. Would you like me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Explore the historical context of this passage? Discuss how this verse relates to other parts of the Bible?