2 Corinthians 2:7
So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow. So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.
The instruction applies to one who has shown genuine repentance by acknowledging his wrong and turning to a changed course. Such a penitent is to be forgiven and comforted rather than left to continue under punishment. He is to be welcomed back with love and kindness, encouraged, and helped to regain confidence, lest he be overwhelmed and swallowed up with overmuch sorrow. The church has authority to forgive such a penitent and restore him to fellowship, and its decision to receive him again is affirmed in Christ's stead. To continue holding back one who has reformed after repentance misrepresents Christ.