2 Corinthians 1:1-2, Introduction: Hey, It's Paul Again!

1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the church of God that is at Corinth, with all the saints who are in the whole of Achaia: 2 Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Comments:

Today we begin a new reading plan that covers 2 Corinthians. Written by Paul about three years after 1 Corinthians in late 55 or early 56, it appears the Corinthians have not learned their lesson since Paul’s previous letter. They are now questioning Paul’s legitimacy as an apostle. In this second letter, Paul focuses considerable attention on two specific obstacles in the way of full reconciliation: the need to restore their trust in him as an apostle of God and the need restore their personal relationship. He defends himself and his ministry, arguing that if they are alienated from him as Christ’s agent, then they are alienated from Christ himself and in danger of falling into apostasy.

Throughout 2 Corinthians, Paul references his travel plans to explain why he planned to come see the Corinthian Christians but has not yet done so. Another issue is patronage. Some of the more well-to-do Corinthians were disturbed by Paul’s refusal of their offers of patronage. Paul, who would not be put in a place of owing anyone anything, had not wanted to subordinate himself to them because of their generosity. Paul wants them to understand that as his spiritual children, he is their patron, and that the gospel of free grace should be offered free of charge.

If Paul cannot establish his good character from the start of the letter, then his subsequent arguments and appeal for reconciliation will fall on deaf ears. He needs to convince the Corinthians they misunderstood him as one commissioned through the will of God. God’s hand on him is more than enough to authorize his ministry and actions. He adds that the Corinthians’ faith is further validation of his apostleship. Addressing this epistle to the “the church of God,” strongly suggests a church of Jews and Gentiles who are the people called by God and not a human construct. He also addresses the saints of Achaia, showing that it is to be a circular letter and not for Corinth only.

Paul concludes 2 Corinthians believing he has resolved all the major obstacles to his return to Corinth as one reconciled with his people. If Romans 15:25-26 and 16:1 and 23-24 provide a clue, Paul did return to Corinth, stayed with one of the believers, and wrote his letter to the Romans from there, sending greetings from leading Corinthian Christians. 2 Corinthians is a shining example of how message, method, and ministry come together to accomplish reconciliation.

Reflection:

O God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, our only Savior, the Prince of Peace: give us grace seriously to lay to heart the great dangers we are in by our unhappy division. Take away all hatred and prejudice, and whatsoever else may hinder us from godly union and concord; that, as there is but one Body, and one Spirit, and one hope of our calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of us all, so we may henceforth be all of one heart and of one soul, united in one holy bond of truth and peace, of faith and charity, and may with one mind and one mouth glorify thee; through Jesus Christ our Lord.

-- Church of England, Accession Service 1714