Title and Author: The book of 2 Corinthians is traditionally attributed to the Apostle Paul. The title reflects its position as the second canonical letter to the church in Corinth. Paul, a pivotal figure in early Christianity, is recognized for his missionary journeys and theological contributions to the New Testament.

Historical Context: 2 Corinthians was likely written around A.D. 55-57 during Paul's third missionary journey, possibly from Macedonia. The letter addresses issues that arose after his first letter to the Corinthians, including challenges to his apostolic authority and the need for reconciliation with the Corinthian church.

Audience: The primary audience is the Christian community in Corinth, a diverse and cosmopolitan city in ancient Greece. The church was composed of both Jewish and Gentile converts, facing internal divisions and external pressures.

Purpose: Paul wrote 2 Corinthians to defend his apostolic authority, address false teachings, encourage generosity in the collection for the Jerusalem church, and express his deep affection and concern for the Corinthians.

Genre and Style: 2 Corinthians is an epistle, characterized by its personal tone, rhetorical questions, and emotional appeals. It combines elements of autobiography, defense, and exhortation.1. Paul (2 Corinthians 1:1)
- Paul is the author of the letter. He is an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God and is writing to the church in Corinth.

2. Timothy (2 Corinthians 1:1)
- Timothy is mentioned as a co-sender of the letter. He is a close companion and fellow worker with Paul.

3. Titus (2 Corinthians 2:13)
- Titus is a fellow worker of Paul who is sent to Corinth to help with the collection for the saints and to report back on the situation in the church.

4. The Macedonians (2 Corinthians 8:1)
- The Macedonians are not a single person but a group of believers from the region of Macedonia. They are noted for their generosity despite their poverty.

5. The Corinthians (2 Corinthians 1:1)
- The Corinthians are the recipients of the letter. They are the members of the church in Corinth to whom Paul is writing.

6. The Super Apostles (2 Corinthians 11:5)
- These are not named individually, but Paul refers to them sarcastically as "super apostles." They are false apostles who are challenging Paul's authority and teachings.

7. Satan (2 Corinthians 2:11)
- Satan is mentioned as the adversary who seeks to outwit believers, and Paul warns the Corinthians to be aware of his schemes.

8. Abraham (2 Corinthians 11:22)
- Abraham is mentioned in the context of Paul discussing his heritage and the heritage of the false apostles, as they all claim descent from Abraham.

9. Eve (2 Corinthians 11:3)
- Eve is referenced in Paul's warning to the Corinthians about being led astray, as Eve was deceived by the serpent.

10. The Serpent (2 Corinthians 11:3)
- The serpent is mentioned in the context of deceiving Eve, symbolizing deceit and false teachings.1. Macedonia (2 Corinthians 1:16)
- Macedonia is a region in the northern part of Greece. Paul mentions his intention to pass through Macedonia on his way to Corinth. It was an important area for early Christian missionary work.

2. Achaia (2 Corinthians 1:1)
- Achaia is a region in southern Greece, where Corinth is located. Paul addresses the letter to the church in Corinth and all the saints throughout Achaia.

3. Asia (2 Corinthians 1:8)
- Asia, in this context, refers to the Roman province of Asia, located in what is now western Turkey. Paul speaks of the hardships he faced in Asia, which were so severe that he despaired of life itself.

4. Troas (2 Corinthians 2:12)
- Troas is a city located on the northwest coast of Asia Minor. Paul mentions that he went to Troas to preach the gospel of Christ and found an open door for his work.

5. Titus (2 Corinthians 2:13)
- While not a location, Titus is a significant figure in the letter. Paul mentions his concern for Titus, whom he expected to meet in Troas but did not find there.

6. Jerusalem (2 Corinthians 8:4)
- Jerusalem is the capital of Judea and a central city in biblical history. Paul refers to the collection for the saints in Jerusalem, highlighting the support for the church there.1. Paul's Defense of His Apostolic Authority (2 Corinthians 1:1-2:4)
- Paul begins by defending his authority as an apostle, explaining his change of travel plans, and expressing his sincere love and concern for the Corinthian church. He emphasizes his integrity and the sincerity of his message.

2. Forgiveness for the Offender (2 Corinthians 2:5-11)
- Paul urges the Corinthians to forgive and comfort a member who had caused grief, likely referring to the individual mentioned in 1 Corinthians. He stresses the importance of forgiveness to prevent Satan from gaining an advantage.

3. The Ministry of the New Covenant (2 Corinthians 3:1-18)
- Paul contrasts the old covenant of the law with the new covenant of the Spirit, highlighting the greater glory and freedom found in the new covenant. He explains that believers are being transformed into the image of Christ.

4. Treasures in Jars of Clay (2 Corinthians 4:1-18)
- Paul describes the gospel as a treasure contained in "jars of clay," symbolizing human frailty. He speaks of the trials faced in ministry but emphasizes the eternal glory that outweighs temporary suffering.

5. The Ministry of Reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:11-21)
- Paul explains the role of believers as ambassadors for Christ, entrusted with the message of reconciliation. He emphasizes that through Christ, God reconciled the world to Himself.

6. Paul's Hardships and Perseverance (2 Corinthians 6:3-10)
- Paul lists the hardships he has endured for the sake of the gospel, including beatings, imprisonments, and sleepless nights, yet he remains steadfast in his mission.

7. Call to Holiness (2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1)
- Paul urges the Corinthians to separate themselves from unbelievers and to pursue holiness, emphasizing the importance of being temples of the living God.

8. Joy and Comfort in Titus' Report (2 Corinthians 7:5-16)
- Paul expresses his joy and comfort upon hearing from Titus about the Corinthians' positive response to his previous letter, which had caused them sorrow but led to repentance.

9. The Collection for the Saints (2 Corinthians 8:1-9:15)
- Paul discusses the collection for the impoverished saints in Jerusalem, encouraging the Corinthians to give generously and cheerfully, using the Macedonian churches as an example of sacrificial giving.

10. Paul's Defense Against False Apostles (2 Corinthians 10:1-12:13)
- Paul defends his ministry against false apostles who were undermining his authority. He boasts of his sufferings and visions, emphasizing his weaknesses to highlight God's strength.

11. Paul's Concern for the Corinthians (2 Corinthians 12:14-13:10)
- Paul expresses his concern for the Corinthians' spiritual well-being and warns them to examine themselves to ensure they are in the faith. He plans to visit them again and hopes to find them living in accordance with the gospel.

12. Final Greetings and Benediction (2 Corinthians 13:11-14)
- Paul concludes the letter with final exhortations for unity, peace, and love among the Corinthians, followed by a benediction invoking the grace of Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit.1. Comfort in Affliction (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)
- Paul begins by praising God as the "Father of compassion and the God of all comfort," who comforts believers in their troubles so they can comfort others. This theme underscores the mutual support and encouragement within the Christian community.

2. Suffering and Strength (2 Corinthians 1:5-7)
- The theme of suffering is prevalent, with Paul explaining that just as believers share in Christ's sufferings, they also share in His comfort. This duality highlights the strength and hope found in enduring hardships for the sake of faith.

3. Integrity and Sincerity (2 Corinthians 1:12)
- Paul emphasizes the importance of conducting oneself with integrity and sincerity, particularly in his own ministry. He stresses that his actions are guided by God's grace rather than worldly wisdom.

4. Forgiveness and Reconciliation (2 Corinthians 2:5-11)
- Paul discusses the need for forgiveness within the church community, urging the Corinthians to forgive and comfort a repentant individual to prevent excessive sorrow. This theme highlights the power of reconciliation and unity.

5. The New Covenant (2 Corinthians 3:6)
- Paul contrasts the old covenant of the law with the new covenant of the Spirit, which brings life. This theme emphasizes the transformative power of the Spirit and the surpassing glory of the new covenant.

6. Transformation and Renewal (2 Corinthians 3:18)
- Believers are described as being transformed into the image of Christ "with ever-increasing glory." This theme focuses on spiritual growth and renewal through the work of the Holy Spirit.

7. Treasures in Jars of Clay (2 Corinthians 4:7)
- Paul uses the metaphor of "treasures in jars of clay" to illustrate the paradox of human frailty and divine power. This theme highlights God's power working through human weakness.

8. Eternal Perspective (2 Corinthians 4:16-18)
- Paul encourages believers to focus on the eternal rather than the temporary, as "our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory." This theme stresses the importance of maintaining an eternal perspective amidst life's challenges.

9. Ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20)
- Believers are called "ambassadors for Christ," tasked with the ministry of reconciliation. This theme underscores the responsibility of Christians to represent Christ and spread His message of reconciliation.

10. Generosity and Giving (2 Corinthians 8:1-5)
- Paul commends the Macedonian churches for their generosity despite their poverty, encouraging the Corinthians to excel in the grace of giving. This theme highlights the importance of generosity as an expression of faith and love.

11. Spiritual Warfare (2 Corinthians 10:3-5)
- Paul describes the Christian life as a spiritual battle, emphasizing the use of divine power to demolish strongholds and arguments against the knowledge of God. This theme focuses on the spiritual nature of the believer's struggles.

12. Boasting in Weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9-10)
- Paul shares his personal experience of a "thorn in the flesh" and how God's grace is sufficient, leading him to boast in his weaknesses. This theme highlights the paradox of strength in weakness and reliance on God's grace.1. The Son of God (2 Corinthians 1:19)
- Paul affirms that Jesus is the Son of God, emphasizing His divine nature and the truth of His message. "For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was proclaimed among you by us...was not 'Yes' and 'No,' but in Him it has always been 'Yes.'"

2. The Anointed One (Christ) (2 Corinthians 1:21)
- Jesus is referred to as the Christ, meaning the Anointed One, signifying His role as the Messiah who fulfills God's promises. "Now it is God who establishes both us and you in Christ."

3. The Image of God (2 Corinthians 4:4)
- Jesus is described as the image of God, indicating His role in revealing God's nature and character to humanity. "The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers so they cannot see the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God."

4. The Lord (2 Corinthians 4:5)
- Jesus is acknowledged as Lord, highlighting His authority and leadership over believers. "For we do not proclaim ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your servants for Jesus’ sake."

5. The Light (2 Corinthians 4:6)
- Jesus is associated with light, symbolizing His role in illuminating truth and dispelling spiritual darkness. "For God, who said, 'Let light shine out of darkness,' made His light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ."

6. The Life (2 Corinthians 4:10-11)
- Jesus is connected with life, particularly in the context of His resurrection power and the new life believers have in Him. "We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body."

7. The Reconciler (2 Corinthians 5:18-19)
- Jesus is portrayed as the one who reconciles humanity to God, restoring the broken relationship caused by sin. "All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation."

8. The Sinless One (2 Corinthians 5:21)
- Jesus is described as sinless, underscoring His perfect nature and His role in taking on sin for humanity's sake. "God made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God."

9. The Bridegroom (2 Corinthians 11:2)
- Jesus is likened to a bridegroom, illustrating His relationship with the Church as one of deep love and commitment. "I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy. For I promised you to one husband, to Christ, so that I might present you as a pure virgin to Him."

10. The Power of God (2 Corinthians 13:4)
- Jesus is associated with the power of God, particularly in the context of His resurrection and the strength He provides to believers. "For to be sure, He was crucified in weakness, yet He lives by God’s power. And though we are weak in Him, yet by God’s power we will live with Him to serve you."1. Prophecy of the Ministry of Reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18-19)
- Prophecy/Teaching: "All this is from God, who reconciled us to Himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to Himself in Christ, not counting men’s trespasses against them. And He has committed to us the message of reconciliation."
- Fulfillment: This teaching is fulfilled in the ongoing work of the Christian church, which continues to spread the message of reconciliation through Christ to the world.

2. Prophecy of the New Creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17)
- Prophecy/Teaching: "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away. Behold, the new has come!"
- Fulfillment: This is fulfilled in the lives of believers who experience transformation and renewal through their faith in Christ.

3. Prophecy of Suffering and Comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3-5)
- Prophecy/Teaching: "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God."
- Fulfillment: This is fulfilled in the mutual support and comfort that believers provide to one another, reflecting God's comfort in their own lives.

4. Prophecy of the Triumph of Christ (2 Corinthians 2:14)
- Prophecy/Teaching: "But thanks be to God, who always leads us triumphantly as captives in Christ and through us spreads everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him."
- Fulfillment: This is fulfilled in the spread of the Gospel and the influence of Christianity throughout the world.

5. Prophecy of the Eternal Glory (2 Corinthians 4:17)
- Prophecy/Teaching: "For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison."
- Fulfillment: This is fulfilled in the hope of eternal life and glory that believers hold, which sustains them through present trials.

1. Paul Reconciles with the Corinthians  ( 1:1⁠–⁠7:16 )

a. Introduction  ( 1:1⁠–⁠11 )

i. Paul Greets the Corinthians  ( 1:1⁠–⁠2 )

ii. The God of All Comfort  ( 1:3⁠–⁠11 )

b. Paul’s Integrity  ( 1:12⁠–⁠2:11 )

i. Paul’s Changed Plans  ( 1:12⁠–⁠2:4 )

ii. Forgiveness for the Offender  ( 2:5⁠–⁠11 )

c. Paul’s Ministry  ( 2:12⁠–⁠6:10 )

i. Triumph in Christ  ( 2:12⁠–⁠17 )

ii. Ministers of a New Covenant  ( 3:1⁠–⁠18 )

iii. The Light of the Gospel  ( 4:1⁠–⁠6 )

iv. Treasure in Jars of Clay  ( 4:7⁠–⁠18 )

v. Our Eternal Dwelling  ( 5:1⁠–⁠10 )

vi. Ambassadors for Christ  ( 5:11⁠–⁠21 )

vii. Hardships and God’s Grace  ( 6:1⁠–⁠10 )

d. Paul’s Exhortation  ( 6:11⁠–⁠7:16 )

i. Open Your Hearts  ( 6:11⁠–⁠13 )

ii. Do Not Be Unequally Yoked with Unbelievers  ( 6:14⁠–⁠18 )

iii. Paul’s Joy in the Corinthians  ( 7:1⁠–⁠16 )

2. The Collection for Jerusalem  ( 8:1⁠–⁠9:15 )

a. Generosity Commended  ( 8:1⁠–⁠15 )

b. Titus Commended  ( 8:16⁠–⁠24 )

c. God Loves a Cheerful Giver  ( 9:1⁠–⁠15 )

3. Paul’s Final Challenge  ( 10:1⁠–⁠13:14 )

a. Paul’s Apostolic Authority  ( 10:1⁠–⁠12:21 )

i. Let Him Who Boasts Boast in the Lord  ( 10:1⁠–⁠18 )

ii. Paul and the False Apostles  ( 11:1⁠–⁠15 )

iii. Paul’s Suffering and Service  ( 11:16⁠–⁠33 )

iv. Paul’s Revelation  ( 12:1⁠–⁠4 )

v. Paul’s Thorn and God’s Grace  ( 12:5⁠–⁠10 )

vi. Concern for the Corinthians  ( 12:11⁠–⁠21 )

b. Examine Yourselves  ( 13:1⁠–⁠10 )

c. Benediction and Farewell  ( 13:11⁠–⁠14 )