2 Corinthians

Paul begins with thanksgiving for God's comfort in affliction, then recalls his change of travel plans, urging forgiveness and restoration for the repentant sinner. He defends the sincerity of his ministry: the new covenant is written on hearts by the Spirit, surpassing the glory of Moses. Believers are jars of clay—fragile yet bearing treasure—so that surpassing power belongs to God.

Paul pleads for reconciliation, declaring that in Christ, God reconciled the world to Himself and entrusted believers with this ministry. He exhorts the Corinthians not to receive grace in vain but to open their hearts. In chapters 8–9, he urges generosity for the Jerusalem church, grounding giving in Christ's self-giving.

Chapters 10–13 take a sharper tone: Paul contrasts his humility with the boasting of "super-apostles." He recounts visions of paradise but highlights instead his weaknesses, including the mysterious thorn in the flesh. His final exhortations call the church to examine themselves, aim for restoration, and rejoice in the God of love and peace.

Written by the apostle Paul, likely with input from Timothy (1:1).

2 Corinthians teaches that true strength is found in weakness. Ministry is not self-promotion but Spirit-empowered service. God comforts the afflicted, reconciles sinners, calls for generosity, and magnifies His power through fragile vessels.

This letter is crucial for the theology of suffering, weakness, reconciliation, generosity, integrity in ministry, Spirit empowerment, and apostolic authority. It gives an unparalleled window into Paul's heart and shows that the gospel advances through humility and reliance on God's grace.

Usually dated AD 55–57, from Macedonia, after Titus brought news from Corinth.

2 Corinthians moves from thanksgiving and comfort, to defense of ministry, to call for generosity, and finally to strong defense of apostolic authority anchored in weakness.

The main sections of 2 Corinthians are:

• Comfort in affliction and reconciliation 2 Corinthians 1–2

  Paul blesses God of comfort; explains change of plans; urges forgiveness for repentant sinner.
• Ministry of the new covenant 2 Corinthians 3–7

  Spirit-written covenant surpassing Moses; treasure in jars of clay; reconciliation through Christ.
• Generosity and the collection 2 Corinthians 8–9

  Exhortation to give generously for Jerusalem; Christ's grace as model for giving.
• Defense of Paul's apostleship 2 Corinthians 10–13

  Contrast with false apostles; visions and thorn in the flesh; strength in weakness; closing exhortations.