Second Corinthians:

[Rob Morgan]

Second Corinthians:

Second Corinthians describes the anatomy of on apostle. The Corinthian church has been swayed by false teachers who have stirred the people against Paul, especially in response to First Corinthians, Paul’s disciplinary letter. Throughout this letter (Second Corinthians) Paul defends his apostolic conduct, character, and call. The three major sections are: (1) Paul’s explanation of his ministry (1-7); (2) Paul’s collection for the saints (8-9); and (3) Paul’s vindication of his apostleship (.l0-.l3).

Paul’s Explanation of His Ministry (1 -7): After his salutation and thanksgiving for God's comfort in his afflictions and perils (1:1-1 1), Paul explains why he has delayed his planned visit to Corinth. lt is not a matter of vacillation: the apostle wants them to have enough time to repent (1:12-2:4). Paul graciously asks them to restore the repentant offender to fellowship (2:5-13). At this point, Paul embarks on an extended defense of his ministry in terms of his message, circumstances, motives, and conduct (2:14-6:10). He then admonishes the believers to separate themselves from defilement (6:1 1 - 7:1), and expresses his comfort at Titus' news of their change of heart (7:2-16)-

Paul’s Collection for the Saints (8-9): This is the longest discussion of the principles and practice of giving in the New Testament. The example of the Macedonians' liberal giving for the needy brethren in Jerusalem (8:1-6) is followed by an appeal to the Corinthians to keep their promise by doing the same (8:7-9:15). ln this connection, Paul commends the messengers he has semi to Corinth to make arrangements for the large gift they have promised. Their generosity will be more thon amply rewarded by God.

Paul’s Vindication of His Apostleship (l0-13): Paul concludes this epistle with a defense of his apostolic authority and credentials that is directed to the still rebellious minority in the Corinthian Church. His meekness in their presence in no way diminishes his authority as an apostle (l0). To demonstrate his apostolic credentials, Paul is forced to boost about his knowledge, integrity, accomplishments, sufferings, visions, and miracles (11:1-12:13). He reveals his plans to visit them for the third time and urges them to repent so that he will not have to use severity when he comes (12:14- '13:'10). The letter ends with on exhortation, greetings, and a benediction (13:11-14).