Paul opens his letter with a message of forgiveness for the church at Corinth, making clear his commitment to them and building on his message of unity through the Gospel from his first letter. Paul continues to address some of the church’s challenges from the first letter and encourages them to embrace the humble life of Jesus, the paradox of the cross that requires humility and servanthood instead of wealth and status.

A New Way of Life

Paul’s message to the Corinthians encourages them to live in a new way, embracing the cruciform life of Jesus. Through the cross and resurrection, Jesus’ followers can live differently and model generosity, humility, and weakness. 2 Cornithians is a letter about living in a totally counter-cultural way as we seek to live like Jesus did.