Bible Book of 2 Corinthians | Strength in Human Weakness

Paul defends his apostolic authority and explores the theme of God's strength being made perfect in human weakness. 2 Corinthians chapters with summary and commentary.

Genre: Epistle. Theme: Strength in Human Weakness

  • Author: Paul
  • Date: AD 56
  • Read Time: 45 mins
  • Purpose: Defend apostolic authority and reconciliation.
  • Key Verse: 2 Cor 12:9 - My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.
  • Christ: Our Comfort and Sufficiency.
  • Audience: The Corinthian church after a period of severe conflict
  • Tone: Personal and emotional letter.
  • Apostolic Defense: Paul's most personal letter, defending his authority by boasting in his sufferings.
  • New Covenant Ministry: Contrasts the 'ministry of death' (Law) with the 'ministry of the Spirit' (Grace).

2 Corinthians explores the paradox of the Christian life: that God's power is best seen in human fragility and 'jars of clay'.

The book pivots from reconciliation (1-7) to generous giving (8-9) to a final apostolic warning (10-13).

Jesus is the one who became sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him (5:21).

2 Corinthians 1 - Greeting

Paul, to the church in Corinth. We share in Christ's sufferings and comfort. My yes is not no, but to spare you I did not visit you.

2 Corinthians 2 - Forgive the Sinner

I wrote to you as I did in much anguish. You should forgive the one who caused you pain. Through us God spreads the aroma of Christ.

2 Corinthians 3 - Ministers of the New Covenant

God has made us ministers of a new covenant. When anyone turns to the Lord, the veil is lifted. We are being transformed into glory.

2 Corinthians 4 - The Light of the Gospel

God has given us the light of the glory of Christ. We have this treasure in clay jars. Through affliction we look to what is eternal.

2 Corinthians 5 - To be Absent from the body

What is mortal will be clothed with life. If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. We implore you, be reconciled to God!

2 Corinthians 6 - The Temple of the Living God

Now is the day of salvation. We commend ourselves as servants. Do not be yoked with unbelievers. We are the temple of the living God.

2 Corinthians 7 - Paul's Joy

I take great pride in you. I do not regret my letter, for godly grief produces repentance. Our boasts about you to Titus proved true.

2 Corinthians 8 - Encouragement to Give Generously

The churches of Macedonia have given generously for the saints. See that you excel in this grace too. Titus was eager to go to you.

2 Corinthians 9 - The Collection for Christians in Jerusalem

I boast to the Macedonians about the gift you promised. God loves a cheerful giver. Your generosity will overflow in thanksgivings.

2 Corinthians 10 - Paul Defends His Ministry

Our weapons destroy arguments against God. What we say by letter we do in person. We only boast within the sphere God has given us.

2 Corinthians 11 - Paul and the False Apostles

I am jealous for you against these false apostles. I speak as a fool. Do they boast? I have greater labours, beatings and dangers.

2 Corinthians 12 - Paul's thorn in the flesh

I will boast of a man who saw paradise. I was given a thorn to keep me from pride. This is foolish! I will gladly be spent for you.

2 Corinthians 13 - Final Warnings

This will be my third visit. Christ is powerful among you. Test that you are in the faith. Be mature. The grace of God be with you.