2 Corinthians
Overview
Theme: Apostolic Ministry Glory 31 times; Comfort 29 times; Minister 18 times Key Scripture: 12:14 Time of Writing: 56 A.D.
Chapters 1-7: Paul’s Apostolic Relationship with the Corinthians Chapters 8-9: Paul’s Plea to get the Jerusalem Relief Fund Back on Track Chapters 10-13: Paul’s Apostolic Relationship and the Recalcitrant Minority
Purposes:
- To defend Paul’s apostolic ministry and authority against false ministers
- To give further instruction concerning the collection for the Christians at Jerusalem
- To point out the need for consolation in the case of discipline mentioned in the first epistle
- To show that the New Covenant surpasses the Old Covenant in glory
Messages:
- A true minister of God will glory in the Lord and not in himself.
- The chief purpose of church discipline is restoration rather than condemnation.
- Apostolic ministry is attested to by patience, signs, wonders, and mighty deeds.