Sin causes sorrow to many people; sin is never an isolated action or lack of action.

In this specific case, the one causing many to sorrow was sufficiently punished (perhaps by “the silent treatment,” or by being confronted).
(NASB) 2 Corinthians 2:6 “Sufficient for such a one is this punishment which was inflicted by the majority,”

 (NASB) 2 Corinthians 2:7 “so that on the contrary you should rather forgive and comfort him, otherwise such a one might be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow.”

What was the next step after sufficient punishment?
Forgive him.
Comfort him.

We are to forgive and comfort those who caused sorrow by their actions and/or their words and have repented.

Have you ever considered that you can cause excessive sorrow to the one who has repented by not forgiving them?

Godly love forgives.

Godly love comforts.

Godly love shows mercy.

Godly love is demonstrated through forgiveness

When a Christian public figure sins, it becomes known and ministries are demolished.  When those same well-known Christians repent – they will be forgiven by God; yet, their ministries may never withstand the crushing blow.  However, God is faithful and He will lead them on the path He has for them.

For the rest of us, people who bought CD’s, videos and books – how are we to think of them who caused such sorrow?  Are we to continue to condemn them because they caused such sorrow?

What does God say?  Does He say to continue to condemn them and never forgive them for their despicable act of sin?  NO, a thousand times, no!

God says: Forgive them!  Comfort them!  Reaffirm love for them!

(NASB) 2 Corinthians 2:8 “Wherefore I urge you to reaffirm your love for him.”

~ Take it to heart ~

(NASB) Ephesians 4:32 “Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.”

God has forgiven me!  I have been forgiven much –
how can I not forgive others?