The Message of 2 Corinthians

The Bible Speaks Today: New Testament

by Paul Barnett

The letter of 2 Corinthians reveals a powerful debate between the apostle Paul and a shadowy group of opponents, along with the local church members who supported them. Paul records a range of emotional extremes as he defends his doctrine, ministry, and character to this beloved yet troublesome congregation. In his response to the conflict, Paul develops a momentous theological message: God's power is at work in human beings, not in their power but in their weakness. In this revised Bible Speaks Today volume, Paul Barnett provides an accessible exposition that helps readers engage the message of 2 Corinthians. Working passage by passage through this often challenging epistle, Barnett provides helpful background, draws out key themes, and offers applications for Christians today. We find rich insights about the work of Christ, the nature of Christian ministry, facing struggles and weakness, generosity, and the life of the church. This revised edition of a classic volume features a new interior design, current NIV Scripture quotations, and light updates throughout.

Genres: Biblical Studies, Reference

208 pages, Paperback

First published September 21, 1988

About the author

Paul Barnett, former Anglican Bishop of North Sydney, Australia, is a Visiting Fellow in Ancient History at Macquarie University and Teaching Fellow at Regent College, Vancouver and Moore College, Sydney. He is a frequent traveler to Israel, where Christianity began, and to Turkey and Greece, to which it rapidly spread.

Reviews

[Luke Watts]

A truly helpful title, deeper than its size may indicate. Great resource for preaching or studying through 2 Corinthians, with excellent cultural connections and explanations of the time and setting, as well as a great examination of the content.

[Terry Cave]

Great commentary! Paul has done a good job.

I recommend this!! 2 Corinthians will certainly challenge your thinking and this commentary picks the message well.

[Brian Pate]

I read this short commentary while I studied 2 Corinthians in my devotions August 2014 - January 2015. Helpful and encouraging.