The Second Epistle to the Corinthians, also known as 2 Corinthians, is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the church in Corinth. In this letter, Paul addresses various issues and challenges faced by the church, including his authority as an apostle, the need for reconciliation and forgiveness, the importance of generosity in giving, and the contrast between the new covenant and the old covenant. Paul also discusses the concept of ministry, the nature of Christian suffering, the power of God’s grace, and the call to live as ambassadors of Christ. Through this letter, Paul provides encouragement, guidance, and correction to the Corinthian believers, urging them to live lives of faith, love, and holiness in light of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Book of 2 Corinthians
A letter from Paul to the church in Corinth, addressing unity, suffering, ministry, and reconciliation.
Chapters in Book of 2 Corinthians
Summary of the Book of 2 Corinthians
F.A.Q. for the Book of 2 Corinthians
What is the significance of Paul's 'thorn in the flesh' mentioned in 2 Corinthians 12:7-10?
In 2 Corinthians 12:7-10, Paul speaks of a ‘thorn in the flesh’ that he was given to keep him from becoming conceited due to the ‘surpassingly great revelations’ he had received. The specific nature of this ‘thorn’ is not detailed, leading to various interpretations such as a physical ailment, spiritual struggle, or persecution. The significance of this passage lies in its theological implications. Paul petitions the Lord three times for its removal, but the response he receives is, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ This underscores a profound Christian teaching that divine strength is most apparent in human weakness, emphasizing the reliance on God’s grace rather than one’s own abilities. This theme is central to Paul’s theology, presenting suffering as a means to experience and display God’s power more clearly.
What is the context and meaning of 'God loves a cheerful giver' found in 2 Corinthians 9:7?
2 Corinthians 9:7 states, ‘Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.’ This verse is part of Paul’s larger discourse on generosity and giving, which spans chapters 8 and 9 of 2 Corinthians. Here, Paul is encouraging the Corinthian church to contribute to a collection for the impoverished believers in Jerusalem. The context emphasizes voluntary and joyful giving rather than giving out of obligation or for show. The phrase ‘God loves a cheerful giver’ highlights the importance of the attitude behind the act of giving. The joy and willingness to give reflect a heart aligned with God’s generosity, which goes beyond the material benefits and touches on the relational and spiritual dimensions of Christian charity.
How does 2 Corinthians 5:17 explain the concept of a believer being a 'new creation'?
2 Corinthians 5:17 proclaims, ‘Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!’ This verse is essential to understanding the transformative power of the Christian faith. The phrase ‘in Christ’ signifies a deep, abiding relationship with Jesus, wherein believers are united with Him. The concept of a ‘new creation’ indicates a radical change in the believer’s identity and reality. It implies that through Christ’s redemptive work, a person’s past sins and old way of living are left behind, and they are spiritually renewed. This transformation affects not only individual conduct and character but also signifies a broader cosmic renewal that God is enacting through Christ, renewing all things. It is an invitation to live in the present reality of this newness, characterized by the values and life of the Kingdom of God.