2 Corinthians 1:1

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the church of God in Corinth, together with all the saints throughout Achaia:

Study Bible

Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the church of God in Corinth, together with all the saints throughout Achaia
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus
The name "Paul" is derived from the Latin "Paulus," meaning "small" or "humble." This reflects Paul's transformation from a persecutor of Christians to a humble servant of Christ. The term "apostle" comes from the Greek "apostolos," meaning "one who is sent." Paul emphasizes his divine commissioning, underscoring his authority and the authenticity of his message. His apostleship is not self-appointed but is a calling from "Christ Jesus," highlighting the centrality of Christ in his mission and life.

by the will of God
This phrase underscores the divine origin of Paul's apostleship. The Greek word for "will" is "thelēma," indicating a deliberate and purposeful decision. Paul’s role as an apostle is not by human choice or merit but by God's sovereign plan. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty and His active role in the unfolding of His redemptive plan.

and Timothy our brother
Timothy, whose name means "honoring God," is mentioned as a co-sender of the letter. This inclusion signifies the close relationship and partnership in ministry between Paul and Timothy. The term "brother" (Greek "adelphos") emphasizes the familial bond within the Christian community, transcending biological ties and rooted in shared faith in Christ.

To the church of God in Corinth
The "church" (Greek "ekklesia") refers to the assembly of believers, called out from the world to belong to God. The phrase "of God" signifies ownership and divine establishment. Corinth was a major city in ancient Greece, known for its wealth and moral challenges. The church in Corinth faced numerous issues, and Paul's letters address these with pastoral care and doctrinal instruction.

together with all the saints throughout Achaia
The term "saints" (Greek "hagios") means "holy ones," referring to those set apart for God. This designation is not based on personal merit but on their position in Christ. "Achaia" was a Roman province in southern Greece, indicating that Paul's message was intended for a broader audience beyond Corinth. This reflects the universal nature of the gospel and the interconnectedness of the early Christian communities.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The author of the letter, an apostle of Christ Jesus. His apostleship is by divine appointment, emphasizing his authority and mission.

2. Timothy
A close companion and co-worker of Paul, referred to as "our brother," indicating his role in the early church and his partnership in ministry.

3. Church of God in Corinth
The primary recipients of the letter, a Christian community in the city of Corinth, known for its diverse and sometimes problematic congregation.

4. Saints throughout Achaia
Believers in the broader region of Achaia, indicating that the letter's teachings are applicable beyond just Corinth.

5. Achaia
A region in Greece, highlighting the geographical spread of the early church and the interconnectedness of the Christian communities.

Teaching Points

Divine Calling and Authority
Paul’s apostleship is by the will of God, reminding us that our callings and roles in the church are divinely appointed. We should seek to understand and fulfill our God-given purposes.

Spiritual Kinship
Timothy is referred to as "our brother," illustrating the familial bonds within the Christian community. We are called to foster deep, supportive relationships with fellow believers.

Unity of the Church
The letter is addressed not only to Corinth but also to all saints in Achaia, highlighting the unity and shared identity of the church. We should strive for unity and cooperation among different congregations and denominations.

Role of the Church
The church in Corinth is described as the "church of God," emphasizing that the church belongs to God and is under His authority. This perspective should guide how we view and participate in church life.

Holiness and Identity
Believers are referred to as "saints," indicating their set-apart status. We are called to live lives that reflect our holy identity in Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding Paul’s divine calling as an apostle influence our view of spiritual authority and leadership in the church today?

2. In what ways can we cultivate spiritual kinship and brotherhood within our own church communities, following the example of Paul and Timothy?

3. How can we actively promote unity among different Christian communities, as Paul does by addressing both Corinth and Achaia?

4. What does it mean for us to be part of the "church of God," and how should this identity affect our daily lives and decisions?

5. Reflect on the term "saints" as used by Paul. How can we live out our identity as saints in a practical and impactful way in our current cultural context?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 18
Provides background on Paul's initial visit to Corinth and the establishment of the church there.

1 Corinthians 1:1
Similar greeting, reinforcing Paul's role as an apostle and the importance of Timothy in his ministry.

Romans 1:7
Another example of Paul addressing the saints, showing his consistent recognition of believers' sanctified status.

1 Timothy 1:2
Highlights the close relationship between Paul and Timothy, emphasizing mentorship and spiritual kinship.

Galatians 1:1
Paul asserts his apostleship as being from God, not man, underscoring the divine authority behind his mission.