By Sam E. Stone Despite the problems noted in 1 Corinthians (such as division, pride, and immorality), the church had many good qualities. Generous giving, however, was an area in which they needed to improve. In today’s text Paul used various appeals to encourage them to grow in generosity. An Example 2 Corinthians […]
By Sam E. Stone In the section of 2 Corinthians just before today’s printed text, the apostle Paul discussed why Christians must resolve differences (5:11-21). Compelled by Christ’s love, we are to practice “the ministry of reconciliation” (v. 18). Paul reminded the church that God’s forgiveness of us is a model of how we […]
By Sam E. Stone Paul’s suffering is mentioned throughout this second letter to the Corinthians, especially in chapters 4, 6, and 11. When the Lord called him into his service, he revealed his plan to use Paul as a “chosen instrument to carry my name before the Gentiles.” He added, “I will show him […]
By Sam E. Stone Paul’s first letter to the Corinthian church contained many things that were difficult for the people to hear and to heed. One issue involved a man who had a sexual relationship with his father’s wife (1 Corinthians 5:1). The apostle directed the church to separate from him (5:2, 11-13). The […]
By Sam E. Stone Last month’s lessons were all based on Paul’s first letter to the church in Corinth. This month we study his second letter to the Corinthians. Apparently the apostle wrote his second epistle around AD 55. Some of the false teachers in the church continued to misrepresent him, seeking to diminish […]
