The Book of 2 Corinthians
2 Corinthians is Paul's most personal letter — on weakness, comfort in suffering, and the grace that is made perfect in our weakness.
- Testament
- New (13 chapters)
- Type
- Epistle
- Author
- Paul, with co-author Timothy.
- Date
- About 55-56 AD, from Macedonia.
Strength in weakness
Paul describes a 'thorn in the flesh' — some unspecified ongoing affliction — and God's answer: 'My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness' (12:9). The book reframes weakness as the place where God's power shows up.
Ministry as treasure in clay jars
'We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us' (4:7). The gospel does not require impressive vessels; it requires honest ones.
Key verses (KJV)
“My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.” — 2 Corinthians 12:9 (KJV)
“We walk by faith, not by sight.” — 2 Corinthians 5:7 (KJV)
“Wherefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” — 2 Corinthians 5:17 (KJV)
How to read 2 Corinthians
Chapter 4 (treasure in clay jars), 5 (the new creation), and 12 (Paul's thorn) are the pastoral high points. Read when you feel insufficient — this letter is for you.
Read 2 Corinthians on your iPhone
Read the full book of 2 Corinthians in Quiethaven — choose your translation, read offline, and pick up where you left off. Pair it with a daily verse and a prayer timer.
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