2 Corinthians

A Welcome to the II Corinthians Course

For those who have not studied the Second Letter of Paul to the church at Corinth we give a warm welcome. For those who have previously studied the Epistle it should be a time of gleaning even further insights. This letter not only has much to teach us, but it is the letter of all Paul's epistles which brings us to the heart of the Apostle, for at his heart is the ministry which God has given him. In 4:1-2 (cf. I Cor. 4:1-2) Paul wrote, 'Therefore, since it is by God's mercy that we are engaged in this ministry, we do not lose heart, We have renounced the shameful things that one hides; we refuse to falsify God's word; but by the open statement of the truth we commend ourselves to the conscience of everyone in the sight of God' (NRSV). 

He speaks elsewhere of the privilege of ministry has being of grace, but here it is of mercy. In Paul's mind mercy is the greatest thing that God can do.

Undertaking the Course on II Corinthians is not just valuable for gaining biblical knowledge. It is that, but more than that. It deals with Christian ministry, a subject that is most valuable to all Christians. Paul opens his hearty to reveal his inner passion and longings for his converts. Along the way we gather much useful information about the nature of the church, and the apostolic ministry. Students do well to persist with close study of the Letter for what they learn will come into practical use. It is indeed one of Paul's greatest letters, if may speak that way.