2 Corinthians

2 Corinthians is one of the letters in which Paul opens his relationship with the believers in Corinth in his most personal tone. In the book, he both explains the reasons for his ministry, the sufferings he has endured, and the nature of his apostleship, and calls the congregation to comfort, reconciliation, generosity, and spiritual maturity. Contrasts between power and weakness, outward appearance and sincerity, and what is temporary and what is eternal shape the fabric of the letter. Here the reader sees not only teaching, but also a real life of ministry carried on under pressure. For that reason, 2 Corinthians is especially valuable for those who want to reflect on suffering, trust, forgiveness, community life, and how God's power becomes visible in human weakness.

Author and context

2 Corinthians is traditionally attributed to the Apostle Paul, and the language of the letter itself strongly supports that attribution. It is commonly dated to the mid-50s CE, during a period when Paul was experiencing a strained but healing relationship with the Corinthian congregation. In the background are earlier visits, sharp warnings, misunderstandings, and problems connected to rival teachers. Some modern scholars discuss whether the form in which the letter now stands may preserve more than one note or letter section, yet the broadly Pauline character of its main body is widely accepted.

Reading tip

Read this letter not only as a text of abstract teaching, but as a relational and historical correspondence. Paul is at times defensive, at times wounded, and at times joyful; the shifts in tone carry much of the meaning. Especially in chapters 1-7 and 10-13, notice how community crisis and Paul's understanding of ministry are tightly intertwined.

Chapters

• 2 Corinthians 1
• 2 Corinthians 2
• 2 Corinthians 3
• 2 Corinthians 4
• 2 Corinthians 5
• 2 Corinthians 6
• 2 Corinthians 7
• 2 Corinthians 8
• 2 Corinthians 9
• 2 Corinthians 10
• 2 Corinthians 11
• 2 Corinthians 12
• 2 Corinthians 13

Who wrote the book of 2 Corinthians?

The book is traditionally attributed to the Apostle Paul. Although modern scholarship includes some discussion about the letter's present composition, the main content is widely accepted as Pauline.

What is 2 Corinthians about?

The letter addresses Paul's ministry, the hardships he endured, and his relationship with the Corinthian congregation. It also develops major themes such as comfort, reconciliation, the ministry of the new covenant, generosity, and the visibility of God's power in human weakness.