2 Corinthians
Summary[i]
Date: A.D. 60; probably from Philippi,
after the events of Act_19:23-41; Act_20:1-13.
Theme: The Epistle discloses the
touching state of the great apostle at this time. It was one of physical
weakness, weariness, and pain. But his spiritual burdens were greater. These
were two kinds--solicitude for the maintenance of the churches in grace as
against the law-teachers, and anguish of heart over the distrust felt toward
him by Jews and Jewish Christians. The chilling doctrines of the legalizers
were accompanied by detraction, and by denial of his apostleship.
It is evident that the really
dangerous sect in Corinth was that which said, "and I of Christ" (1Co_1:12). They rejected the new revelation
through Paul of the doctrines of grace; grounding themselves, probably, on the
kingdom teachings of our Lord as "a minister of circumcision" (Rom_15:8); seemingly oblivious that a new
dispensation had been introduced by Christ's death. This made necessary a
defence of the origin and extent of Paul's apostolic authority.
The Epistle is in three parts:
1. Paul's principles of action (2 Corinthians
1:1 - 7:16).
2. The collection for the poor saints at
Jerusalem (2 Corinthians 8:1 - 9:15).
3. Paul's defence of his apostolic authority (2
Corinthians 10:1 - 13:14).