“Look at the Book” is Bible Gateway’s series of short blog posts and infographics introducing you to the books of the Bible. Paul’s Second Letter to the Corinthians warns them — and us — to guard against false apostles by using him as a model.
Scroll to the bottom if you’d prefer to see (and save) this article as an infographic. You’ll also find a handy 30-day reading guide. Or, for a challenge, you can do it in one week using the 7-day reading guide below.
Summary
Paul expresses his joy for the church, explains the troubles he had experienced for the gospel, and educates them on living the Christian life. Paul emphasizes the integrity he modeled in their midst, warns them to deal with the troublemakers, and tells them to prepare for his next visit.
- Category: Epistle
- Theme: Weakness
- Timeline: Written around AD 56
Key Verse
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” — 2 Corinthians 5:17 (NIV)
Apostle vs. Apostle
In 2 Corinthians, Paul writes of his relief and joy at their repentance, but his main concern was:
- To defend his apostleship
- Exhort the Corinthians to resume preparations for the collection for the poor at Jerusalem
- And confront the false apostles head on.
7 Day Reading Guide
(See 30-day guide below.)
- Day 1: 2 Corinthians 1-2
- Day 2: 2 Corinthians 3-4
- Day 3: 2 Corinthians 5-6
- Day 4: 2 Corinthians 7-8
- Day 5: 2 Corinthians 9-10
- Day 6: 2 Corinthians 11-12
- Day 7: 2 Corinthians 13
The Lost Letter
After writing 1 Corinthians, Paul apparently made a “painful visit” to the church in Corinth and wrote a “severe letter” (now lost) to correct the abuses he found.
Access the rest of the series. Browse Bible studies for each book of the Bible. Or right-click on the infographic below to download and save the image for your reference.
Chris Fann is the Senior Digital Marketing Manager for Harper Christian Resources. He loves the smell ofa baseball glove, coffee, and old books. He lives in Grand Rapids, Michigan with his wife, 2 teenage boys, and their dog, Freya.