Second Corinthians must have been a difficult letter for Paul to write because he had to list his credentials as an apostle. Paul was reluctant to do so as a humble servant of Christ, but he knew it was necessary. Paul also knew that most of the believers in Corinth had taken his previous words to heart and were beginning to mature in their faith. He affirmed their commitment to Christ.
In responding to the attacks on his character and authority, Paul explains the nature of Christian ministry and, as an example, openly shares about his ministry. This is an important letter for all who wish to be involved in any kind of Christian ministry because it has much to teach us about how we should handle our ministries today. Like Paul, those involved in ministry should be blameless, sincere, confident, caring, open and willing to suffer for the sake of Christ.
As you read this intensely personal letter, listen to Paul’s words of love and exhortation, and be committed to the truth of God’s Word and prepared to reject all false teaching.
Writer of Second Corinthians
Written by the apostle Paul, in the company of Timothy (2 Corinthians 1:1).
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Date Written
About A. D. 55-57, from Macedonia just before Paul revisited Corinth (Acts 20:2-3).
To Whom Written
To “the ekklesia of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints which are in all Achaia” (2 Corinthians 1:1).
Purpose of Second Corinthians
The purpose of the book of Second Corinthians was to encourage the believers in Corinth in the face of persecutions that had arisen since the first letter had reached them. They had responded very well to Paul’s first letter of rebuke, and he commended them for this, but they had been taking their zeal too far, and Paul had to correct them. With Paul’s credentials as an apostle having been called into question by some, Paul defended his own apostleship most convincingly.
Theological Contribution
Second Corinthians is probably best known for its teaching on Christian ministry. Paul marvels at the treasure of the gospel which God entrusts to human servants. Indeed, the weakness of the servant only highlights the message of salvation (4:1-15).
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