Comfort in affliction
2 Corinthians 1:1–11FocusHelp received and shared
Connection to the wholePaul blesses God for comfort that equips believers to comfort others and recounts a severe trial that deepened dependence on God.
interpretation 2 Corinthians 1:12
KJVFor our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.
Read it in context
Paul explains his conduct
Start reading at 2 Corinthians 1:12 (2 Corinthians 1:12 to 2 Corinthians 1:24).
An editorial reading unit, not a claim that the surrounding context stops here. Book background below applies to the shared passage; individual verses may need more specific explanation.
The defense of his sincerity and travel plans addresses strained relations, distinguishing pastoral concern from unreliability.
- 1:12 For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.
- 1:13 For we write none other things unto you, than what ye read or acknowledge; and I trust ye shall acknowledge even to the end;
- 1:14 As also ye have acknowledged us in part, that we are your rejoicing, even as ye also are ours in the day of the Lord Jesus.
- 1:15 And in this confidence I was minded to come unto you before, that ye might have a second benefit;
- 1:16 And to pass by you into Macedonia, and to come again out of Macedonia unto you, and of you to be brought on my way toward Judaea.
- 1:17 When I therefore was thus minded, did I use lightness? or the things that I purpose, do I purpose according to the flesh, that with me there should be yea yea, and nay nay?
- 1:18 But as God is true, our word toward you was not yea and nay.
- 1:19 For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us, even by me and Silvanus and Timotheus, was not yea and nay, but in him was yea.
- 1:20 For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.
- 1:21 Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God;
- 1:22 Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.
- 1:23 Moreover I call God for a record upon my soul, that to spare you I came not as yet unto Corinth.
- 1:24 Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand.
Who
- Who wrote the book? Paul the apostle is the principal author; Timothy is named with him in the greeting. Biblical references: 2 Corinthians 1:1. stated in the text
- Who was present or being addressed in this passage? In the surrounding chapter context (2 Corinthians 1:1–7:16): Paul addresses the Corinthian believers about his afflictions, ministry, changed travel plans, and their response to his earlier painful dealings, as reported by Titus. stated in the text
- Who was the book written to? The church of God at Corinth and all the saints throughout Achaia. Biblical references: 2 Corinthians 1:1. stated in the text
What
- What is the topic of this reading unit? Paul explains his conduct. Read 2 Corinthians 1:12 through 2 Corinthians 1:24 as a connected unit. interpretation
- How does it contribute to the book? The defense of his sincerity and travel plans addresses strained relations, distinguishing pastoral concern from unreliability. interpretation
When
- When are the events or message set? The letter reflects earlier exchanges, changed travel plans, and a collection in progress. A precise date requires reconstruction beyond a dated statement in the letter. book background
Where
- What is the book’s geographic setting? Corinth and the saints in Achaia are addressed; Macedonia and other ministry locations appear in the account. book background
- Where does the context start? This passage sits in Paul explains his conduct (2 Corinthians 1:12 to 2 Corinthians 1:24). Start reading at 2 Corinthians 1:12. An editorial reading unit, not a claim that the surrounding context stops here. Book background below applies to the shared passage; individual verses may need more specific explanation.
How
- How does this book connect with Jesus Christ? Paul explains ministry through the death and life of Jesus, reconciliation in Christ, and power displayed in weakness. These themes do not make suffering proof that every minister's claim is valid. See 2 Corinthians 4:5, 2 Corinthians 4:10, 2 Corinthians 5:19, 2 Corinthians 12:9. interpretation
- How should this book guide our response? Practice integrity, generosity, and openness to correction. Assess ministry by faithfulness to Christ rather than outward impressiveness alone. interpretation
Cited: 2 Corinthians 1:12, 2 Corinthians 1:24, 2 Corinthians 4:5, 2 Corinthians 4:10, 2 Corinthians 5:19, 2 Corinthians 12:9
Who wrote it, and how we know
Paul the apostle
Named in Scripture
What Scripture saysPaul names himself in the opening verse.
2 Corinthians 1:1
Early traditionUniform tradition names Paul.
Related passages
- our rejoicing Job 13:15 Job 23:10-12 Job 27:5-6 Job 31:1-40 Ps 7:3-5 Ps 44:17-21 Isa 38:3 Acts 24:16
- simplicity 2 Cor 11:3 Rom 16:18-19
- godly 2 Cor 2:17 2 Cor 8:8 Josh 24:14 1 Cor 5:8 Eph 6:14 Phil 1:10 Titus 2:7
- not 2 Cor 1:17 2 Cor 4:2 2 Cor 10:2-4 2 Cor 12:15-19 1 Cor 2:4-5,13 1 Cor 15:10 Jas 3:13-18 Jas 4:6
Cross references from CrossReferences-org (CC BY 4.0).
Macro-Structure
See how this passage fits the chapter and the book.
2 Corinthians 1
Paul and Timothy address the church of God at Corinth and the saints in Achaia. The letter explains Paul's ministry and suffering, appeals for reconciliation and generosity, and confronts challenges to his apostolic service.
2 Corinthians 1:1 2 Corinthians 1:3 2 Corinthians 5:20
FocusSincerity and changed plans
Connection to the wholeThe defense of his sincerity and travel plans addresses strained relations, distinguishing pastoral concern from unreliability.
interpretation Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.
2 Corinthians
Paul and Timothy address the church of God at Corinth and the saints in Achaia. The letter explains Paul's ministry and suffering, appeals for reconciliation and generosity, and confronts challenges to his apostolic service.
2 Corinthians 1:1 2 Corinthians 1:3 2 Corinthians 5:20
FocusSuffering, plans, and restoration
Connection to the wholePaul describes comfort in affliction and explains his dealings with Corinth, including forgiveness and his concern over the church's response.
interpretation The ministry entrusted to Paul
2 Corinthians 2:14–7:16FocusNew covenant, weakness, and reconciliation
Connection to the wholePaul explains the character of his ministry and appeals to the Corinthians, ending with relief over their response to his correction.
interpretation The collection
2 Corinthians 8:1–9:15FocusWilling generosity
Connection to the wholeThe example of other believers and of Christ supports an appeal for willing, responsible giving that supplies need and results in thanksgiving.
interpretation Apostolic authority and the coming visit
2 Corinthians 10:1–13:14FocusDiscernment, weakness, and examination
Connection to the wholePaul answers his opponents, explains strength in weakness, and prepares the church for a visit marked by accountability and restoration.
interpretation Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.