2 Corinthians
About this date: Dates are broad scholarly estimates of composition or final editing, not dates of the events narrated. Traditional attributions and scholarly assessments can differ.
This letter reveals a strained relationship between Paul and Corinth. Defense of ministry, reconciliation, generosity for Jerusalem, and the meaning of weakness run through it. Its shifts in tone invite study of the letter's composition rather than an assumption that every section was written in one sitting.
Key points
- Paul describes ministry through suffering and consolation, not worldly prestige.
- Chapters 8-9 connect generosity with a collection for others.
- The final chapters answer opponents and present strength through weakness.
Scripture
- 2 Corinthians 1:3-11 — Consolation in affliction opens the letter's account of ministry.
- 2 Corinthians 5:11-21 — Paul describes reconciliation and the ministry entrusted to him.
- 2 Corinthians 8:1-15 — The collection is argued from grace, generosity, and mutual need.
- 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 — Paul interprets weakness in relation to Christ's power.
Primary sources
2 Corinthians 5:18 states:
Paul describes reconciliation through Christ and the ministry of reconciliation entrusted to his group.
But all things are of God, who reconciled us to himself through Jesus Christ, and gave to us the ministry of reconciliation;
Passage context and translation
Paul describes reconciliation and the ministry entrusted to him.
Before the excerpt
Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old things have passed away. Behold, all things have become new.
After the excerpt
namely, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to himself, not reckoning to them their trespasses, and having committed to us the word of reconciliation.
Sources and further reading
- Anglican Thirty-Nine Articles: canonical books and Apocrypha
- Catholic Catechism §120: canon and book list
- Orthodox Church in America: canon of Scripture
- Orthodox Church in America: Old Testament historical books
- USCCB Bible introductions: historical and literary notes
- USCCB introduction to 2 Corinthians