2 Corinthians study section

2 Corinthians chapter summaries

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Chapter list

Chapters 1–7

Paul’s Ministry and Reconciliation

Paul explains his conduct and his sufferings, the God of all comfort, the surpassing glory of the new covenant ministry, the ministry of reconciliation, and his overflowing joy at the church’s repentance.

  • Chapter 1 (c. AD 56): Paul blesses the God of all comfort, explains his change of travel plans, and affirms that God’s promises are “Yes” in Christ.
  • Chapter 2 (c. AD 56): Paul urges forgiveness of the repentant offender and describes ministry as a fragrant offering leading to life or death.
  • Chapter 3 (c. AD 56): The Corinthians are Paul’s letter of commendation; the new covenant ministry of the Spirit surpasses the fading glory of Moses.
  • Chapter 4 (c. AD 56): The gospel treasure is carried in jars of clay, so the surpassing power belongs to God, and afflictions prepare an eternal glory.
  • Chapter 5 (c. AD 56): Longing for our heavenly dwelling, we live by faith; God reconciles us in Christ, who was made sin for us.
  • Chapter 6 (c. AD 56): Paul commends his ministry through great endurance and calls the church not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers.
  • Chapter 7 (c. AD 56): Paul rejoices at the church’s godly grief and repentance, reported to him by the comforted Titus.

Chapters 8–9

The Grace of Giving

Paul commends the collection for the poor saints in Jerusalem, holding up the example of the Macedonians and of Christ Himself, and teaching cheerful, generous, God-supplied giving.

  • Chapter 8 (c. AD 56): The Macedonians’ generosity and Christ’s own example commend the collection for the saints in Jerusalem.
  • Chapter 9 (c. AD 56): God loves a cheerful giver and supplies the generous, so that giving overflows in thanksgiving to God.

Chapters 10–13

Paul Defends His Apostleship

Against the self-commending “super-apostles,” Paul reluctantly boasts — not in visions or strength, but in his sufferings and weakness, in which the Lord’s power is made perfect.

  • Chapter 10 (c. AD 56): Paul answers those who judge by appearances, insisting he boasts only in the Lord and in his God-given authority.
  • Chapter 11 (c. AD 56): Paul contrasts the false apostles with his own labors and sufferings, “boasting” of his weaknesses.
  • Chapter 12 (c. AD 56): Paul recounts a vision and his thorn in the flesh, learning that God’s power is made perfect in weakness.
  • Chapter 13 (c. AD 56): Paul warns of his coming visit, calls the church to examine itself, and closes with a Trinitarian benediction.

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