What does 2 Corinthians 1:7 mean?

Paul's status as an apostle—or at least a "good" one—was apparently being challenged by some in the Corinthian church. Should he really be experiencing so much suffering if He represents God? Shouldn't life in Christ improve things instead of making them worse? This reflects a belief common even today: that those who God truly loves won't suffer.

Paul has shown that suffering happens for every believer. His suffering has served the purpose of bringing the gospel to them, leading to eternal life for all the Corinthians who have trusted in Christ. In addition, his suffering has led to God's comfort, which he can turn around and share with them, as well, since they will suffer, too.

Paul insists that the experience of suffering in this life—whether from persecution or just the normal pain of existence on this side of eternity—is not a reason to give up hope. He writes that his hope for the Corinthians, the same as that of his co-workers, remains unshaken, despite the suffering they may face. He is convinced they will share in the same comfort he has received from God to carry them through the same sufferings he has experienced.