Video Introduction

Summary

This chapter offers a brief overview of the contents of 2 Corinthians, followed by discussion of historical background and major themes.

In terms of historical background, 2 Corinthians is probably the fourth letter sent by Paul to this troubled congregation; it is his response to news that the congregation desires to be reconciled with him following an unfortunate falling out that prompted him to be harsh with them. Many scholars, however, believe that the work we now possess is actually a compilation of numerous notes and letters—in this case the bulk of 2 Corinthians might be identified with Paul’s fourth letter to the church, while sections of the letter might be identified with other correspondences.

Paul devotes most of the letter to discussing the character and content of his ministry and he does so in a defensive vein, owing to strained relations with the church and to the presence of what he calls super-apostles who have exalted themselves at his expense. Two chapters of 2 Corinthians deal with the topic of fund-raising: Paul lays out principles for generous, proportionate giving as he encourages the Corinthians to support a collection he is taking for Jerusalem. The final chapters of the letter, however, are an uncharacteristically bitter assault on the super-apostles: Paul defends his own apostolic authority, cites the marks of a true apostle, and engages in some ironic “boasting” that leads to his conclusion that human weakness is more commendable than strength.

Study Questions

1. Outline the history of correspondence between Paul and the Corinthians, indicating at least four letters that he is thought to have sent and which of these four would correspond to the letters we have in the New Testament. What do we know about the content of the “lost letters”?

2. Summarize the “patchwork theory” that suggests 2 Corinthians might be a compilation of various notes and letters Paul sent.

3. What was the “collection for Jerusalem” that Paul discusses in 2 Corinthians 8–9 and what principles does he articulate when encouraging the Corinthians to take part in this collection? Cite two ways in which he tries to motivate generosity.

4. What four marks of apostleship does Paul lay out in 2 Corinthians and how do these relate to his contest with the so-called super-apostles?

5. Of what accomplishments does Paul boast in his defense against the super-apostles? Give three examples of “achievements” that mark him as a laudable apostle. Give another three examples of matters that he contends expose his weaknesses and ultimately count for more than the things that show his strength?

Explore Readings

These readings provide a chance for you to explore the New Testament in more depth. The boxes from the text are included here, as well as bibliographies and outlines for the books of the New Testament.

All the Explore readings can also be downloaded as PDFs here.

• 15.0. 2 Corinthians: Outline of Contents

• 15.1. 2 Corinthians in the Revised Common Lectionary

• 15.2. Bibliography: 2 Corinthians

• 15.3. Collection for Jerusalem

• 15.4. Plutarch on Self-Commendation (Box 15.4)

• 15.5. Correspondence with the Corinthians (Box 15.1)

• 15.6. The Lost Letters: Have They Been Found? (Box 15.2)

• 15.7. Paul in Christian Legends (Box 15.3)

• 15.8. 2 Corinthians 11:14—Angels of Light

• 15.9. Generous Giving: Stewardship Principles from 2 Corinthians

Video: Principles for Giving