Knowra Second Epistle to the Corinthians Second Epistle to the Corinthians A New Testament letter attributed to Paul, addressed to the Christian community in Corinth. It defends Paul’s ministry, seeks reconciliation, and urges generosity toward poor Christians in Jerusalem.
Paul the Apostle : An early Christian missionary and writer whose letters shaped the New Testament and Christian theology. Paul speaks in the first person throughout, defending his conduct and authority as an apostle.
New Covenant : The Christian understanding of a renewed relationship between God and humanity, associated with Jesus and the Spirit. Paul describes his ministry as service to a covenant written by the Spirit, not merely on stone.
Authorship of the Pauline epistles : The study of which New Testament letters were written by Paul and which were written by others in his name. Second Corinthians is widely regarded as Pauline, while its composition and unity remain debated.
Timothy : An early Christian missionary and coworker of Paul who appears in several New Testament letters. Timothy is named with Paul in the letter’s opening greeting.
Greco-Roman patronage : A social system in which patrons provided resources and protection in exchange for loyalty and public honor. Paul’s refusal of financial support in Corinth complicates expectations about patron-client relationships.
Corinth : An ancient Greek city on the Isthmus of Corinth, rebuilt as a Roman colony in 44 BCE. The letter addresses a Christian community in this major Roman city.
Apostolic authority : The authority claimed by apostles to teach, lead, and represent the early Christian movement. Paul grounds his appeal in the work and suffering that mark his ministry.
Biblical canon : The collection of writings recognized as authoritative scripture by a religious community. The letter’s place in the New Testament reflects its reception within the Christian canon.
Titus in the New Testament : A Gentile Christian and trusted associate of Paul, prominent in accounts of church organization and mission. His return from Corinth brings Paul relief and news of the community’s response.
Prosperity theology : A modern Christian movement linking faith with expectations of material wealth, health, or success. Paul’s account of hardship resists treating material success as proof of divine favor.
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