1. Reconciliation (2 Corinthians 1:1-7:16)
PaulThe Apostle Paul, originally known as Saul of Tarsus, was the author of several New Testament letters and the founder of many Christian communities. works to mend a relationship with the Corinthian church that has been damaged by doubts about Paul’s sincerity and competence as an apostleDerived from a Greek word meaning “one who is sent,” an apostle is a person who embraces and advocates another person’s idea or beliefs. At the beginning of his ministry Jesus called twelve apostles to follow and serve him. Paul became an apostle of Jesus…. Reconciliation between Paul and the church grows out of the cosmic reconciliation that God was accomplishing in Christ.
2. The Collection (2 Corinthians 8:1-9:15)
Paul collected funds from the relatively wealthier churches of Asia Minor for the relatively poorer church in Jerusalem. In this section, he urges the Corinthians to continue their preparations for the collection and to welcome Titus and two unnamed fellow workers who will assist them in gathering the funds.
3. Self-Defense (2 Corinthians 10:1-13:10)
Paul addresses specific criticisms of his ministry that include such things as a weak public speaking presence, an overbearing tone in his letters, and the dishonoring of the Corinthians by refusing to accept support from them.
4. Closing Exhortation and BlessingBlessing is the asking for or the giving of God’s favor. Isaac was tricked into blessing Jacob instead of his firstborn Esau. At the Last Supper Jesus offered a blessing over bread and wine. To be blessed is to be favored by God. (2 Corinthians 13:11-13)
Paul closes the letter with exhortations to be at peace with one another.
