In preparation for Paul’s upcoming visit, Paul warns that he will come in boldness, wielding apostolic authority, if he needs to. But he’d rather not. He’d rather come in the meekness and gentleness of Christ, that is, he’d rather show God’s power in weakness, because it best follows the model of Christ’s love revealed in the cross. He turns the tables on…

Though the Apostle Paul knew that bragging of one’s accomplishments was the stuff of fools, he is backed into a corner, and forced to speak like a fool and “toot his own horn” in order to defend himself against the super-apostles’ accusations against him. In the end, he makes it clear that all this “foolish talk” was not for his own sake…

In defense of Paul’s legitimacy as an Apostle called into question by the “super-apostles”, Paul “foolishly” boasts in himself. However, unlike the “super-apostles”, he does not boast of his skills or physical strength, but instead, “boasts in his weakness”. For Paul has learned that it is through his weaknesses that God’s power is most fully displayed. Join us for our “After the…

The “super-apostles” have sought to undermine Paul’s authority by questioning his appearance, critiquing his speech, and scoffing at his sufferings, ultimately accusing Paul of being “all bark and no bite” – bold when away, but a wimp in person. Paul defends himself by speaking of his boldness in Christ that shapes his ministry through “meekness and gentleness”. He does not want the…

Paul concludes his appeal to the Corinthians to complete their “Jerusalem Offering” by seeking to motivate them to “sow generously” in order that they might be “cheerful givers” who reflect the abundant giving of God. Paul’s practical principles on how and why to give are timeless, and helpful in nurturing a generous and joyful heart. Join us for our “After the Through…

The Apostle Paul admonishes the Corinthian church to follow up on its good intentions (yet poor execution) in regard to the “Jerusalem Collection”. In order to persuade the Corinthians, Paul does not use the language of the marketplace – speaking of dollars, cents, etc. – but instead uses the language of grace, pointing to God’s extravagant grace revealed in Christ: “For you…

After an extraordinarily long digression, Paul returns to his story about his panicked search for Titus, speaking openly of the unrest and worry that accompanied it. He then describes how overjoyed he is that the Corinthians had experienced “godly sorrow” rather than “worldly sorrow” and thus had been motivated to redemptive actions rather than wallow in their self-pity. Join us for our…

After five chapters defending his apostolic legitimacy, Paul concludes by listing all the tragedies and triumphs of his ministry and pleading for the Corinthians to open their hearts wide to him – to return his love and commitment with their love and commitment. This is a beautiful passage with much to teach us about encouragement, integrity, love, and purity. Join us for…

In this section of Paul’s letter, he communicates his new way of seeing by faith – through the loving eyes of God – and how it impacts his view of himself, others, and the world, and also how it motivates his ministry. As “ambassadors for God” we are called to selflessly and faithfully communicate and live God’s message of reconciliation. By God’s…