2 Corinthians Chapter 1 - Study Notes NABRE

Study Notes: The Second Letter to the Corinthians Chapter 1

- Author: Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus, and Timothy.

- Recipients: Church of God in Corinth and all holy ones in Achaia.

- Message: Grace and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

2. Thanksgiving (1:3-7):

The thanksgiving is presented as a doxology, glorifying God (2 Cor 1:3).
The focus is on the theme of "encouragement" or "consolation," mentioned ten times, against the backdrop of affliction and suffering.
Paul shares his own experiences of suffering and encouragement, emphasizing the connection through Christ (1:5).
The Corinthians are reminded of their shared participation in the encouragement (1:7).

- Blessing: Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

- Attributes of God: Father of compassion and God of all encouragement.

- Comfort in affliction: God encourages us, and we share that encouragement.

- Connection to Christ: Christ's sufferings bring encouragement.

- Purpose of affliction: Affliction for encouragement and salvation.

- Shared hope: Sharing in sufferings leads to shared encouragement.

3. Affliction in Asia (1:8-11):

Paul faced a severe situation in Asia, possibly a physical illness or external threat to life.
The outcome fostered a deepened faith in God alone, highlighting God's role in rescue and resurrection (1:9–10).

- Paul's affliction: Desperation in the province of Asia.

- Trust in God: Reliance on God who raises the dead.

- Divine rescue: God rescued from danger and will continue to do so.

- Importance of prayer: Seeking help through prayer.

- Gratitude: Thanks given for the gift granted through many prayers.

4. Paul’s Sincerity and Constancy (1:12-14):

Paul discusses his conduct and attitude, emphasizing openness, single-mindedness, and conformity to God's grace.
Boasting is introduced as a recurring theme, used positively (1:12, 14).
Paul's initial travel plans are outlined, leading to changes, alternative measures, a breach, and eventual reconciliation with the Corinthians.

- Boast in conscience: Boast is the testimony of a clear conscience.

- Conduct toward Corinthians: Simplicity and sincerity, guided by God's grace.

- Transparent communication: Writing what can be read and understood.

- Mutual understanding: Corinthians are a source of pride for Paul.

- Future plans: Intended visit for a double favor.

5. Paul’s Change of Plan (1:15-24):

Paul affirms the faithfulness of God and his constancy in life and work.
Terms like "yes," "faithful," "Amen," and "gives us security" convey the steadfastness of God, Christ, and the Corinthians.
Commercial terms such as "seal" and "first installment" are used analogously, possibly referring to Christian initiation, even baptism (1:21–22).
Paul explains the delay in his visit to Corinth, raising speculation about the reason.
Expressions like "to spare you" and "work together for your joy" introduce major themes of cheer, rejoice, encourage, joy, and pain, affliction, anguish, which will be elaborated upon later in 2 Corinthians (1:23–24).

- Confidence in the visit: Confidence in coming to receive a double favor.

- Change of plan: Initially intended to visit twice, but plans altered.

- God's faithfulness: God's faithfulness contrasted with human considerations.

- Consistency in Christ: Christ's promises are always "Yes" in him.

- Security in Christ: God gives security in Christ, anointed and sealed with the Spirit.

- Divine witness: Paul calls upon God as a witness for not visiting Corinth yet.

- Leadership approach: Not lording over faith but working for joy and faithfulness.

Notes 2 Corinthians Bible study