2 Corinthians

Reading Guide

2 Corinthians

November 17-23

Background: Written probably about 2 years after 1 Corinthians. There are hints in the letter that Paul may have visited Corinth between the two letters (2 Corinthians 2:1, “the painful visit”) and he may have written another letter that we do not have between these two letters (2 Corinthians 1:3-4, 7:8-12). Paul wrote both 1 and 2 Corinthians while he was in Ephesus.

Theme: Paul’s attempt to reconcile his relationship to the Corinthian church after some difficult times of conflict and discipline.

What to look for: What roles did Timothy and Titus fulfill in Corinth?

How does Paul use figures of speech like sarcasm, metaphor, or hyperbole to make his points?

Chapters 1-7 - Paul reconciles with the Corinthians after several years of tension

Chapter 1 - God of all comfort; Paul explains his travel plans

Chapter 2 - Forgiveness, sacrifice, and service

Chapter 3 - Does Paul need letters of recommendation? What is his letter of recommendation?

What is the difference between the old covenant and the new covenant as described by Paul?

Chapters 4-7 - The paradox of the cross

What is the paradox of the cross?

What is the key to living out the good news of Jesus?

Chapters 8-9 - Generosity

How do these two chapters relate to 1 Corinthians 16:1-3?

What was the purpose for the collection?

What was Titus’ purpose and mission for visiting the Corinthians?

Who is our example when it comes to generosity?

Explain how 2 Corinthians 8:9 is the central theme in this section of the letter.

How does this statement relate to the gospel.

How does this statement fit into Paul’s subject of generosity for the poor?

How was Jesus “rich”? How did he become “poor”?

How do we become “rich”?

Chapters 10-13 - The “super-apostles”

What were the characteristics of the “super-apostles”?

What are the characteristics of a true apostle as demonstrated by Paul?

What was Jesus’ example to them and us about true power?