Page 67 - Advanced New Testament Survey Student Textbook

Purpose(s)

Paul writes to defend his integrity with regard to motives and conduct in the matter of his revised travel
plans (1:12-2:4). By the time of 2 Corinthians the offender who maligned the apostle on his “painful
visit” (2:1) has been duly disciplined and has shown true sorrow and repentance; so Paul appeals to the
church to restore the individual in loving forgiveness (2 Cor 2:3-9; 7:8-12).

Paul writes to encourage the church to follow through on their pledge to participate in the collection for
the impoverished saints in Jerusalem (8:10-12). In light of their restored relationship with Paul, he
desires to affirm their godly sorrow which has produced such true repentance (7:2-16).

With fresh reports of trouble in Corinth Paul must defend his integrity and authority against those who
would undermine the church’s true apostolic foundations (Chapters 10-13). He underscores the
certainty of his coming (13:10, “when I come;” cf. 12:14; 13:1-2; 10:1-2, 10-11), the authenticity of his
apostleship, and his readiness to exercise discipline against these masquerading apostles who have
attacked him and are threatening to win the church over to a gospel that is not his own (11:2-4).

Structure

In 2 Corinthians we see a typical form of a Graeco-Roman letter, with an introduction (2 Cor 1:1–11), a
body (1:12–13:10), and a conclusion (13:11–14). The first part of the body (1:12–2:11) contains Paul’s
reason for having not visited them again after his painful visit. He explains the nature of his ministry
(2:12–7:16). Paul talks about the issue of his collection for the impoverished Jerusalem church (8:1–
9:15): In light of God’s generosity toward the Corinthians, Paul wants them to exercise generosity in
supporting their fellow believers financially. Finally, Paul defends his authority as an apostle against
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people in Corinth who were questioning it (10:1–13:10).
Outline
• Introduction and benediction (1:1–11)
• Paul’s personal defense (1:12–2:11)
• Paul’s defense of his ministry (2:12–7:16)
• The collection for the Jerusalem church (8:1–9:15)
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• Preparation for Paul’s visit (10:1–13:13)

How does 2 Corinthians Impact our lives?

Cor. 1:3-4 – These verses teach us to trust God and be grateful as our experiences of adversity and
suffering can be a resource for other believers. How have you used your suffering to encourage others?
How effective have your encouragements been? What now is your perspective on sad experiences?

Cor. 2:12-13 – Here we should not just be excited about an open door for opportunities of ministry and
breakthroughs. Sometimes, even when the door for ministry seems to be open, we ought to consider
the peace of mind before making decisions. Secondly, healthy relationships should be high on our
priority list.

93 Barry, J. D., et al
94 Ibid

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