II Corinthians

Why was this book written?

      Paul wrote II Corinthians so that when he wouldn't have to deal with all of their mess when he visited them. He cared about them and wanted to have a joyful and peaceful time. He didn't want to spend the whole time correcting them and rebuking them (2:3-4, 13:10). Paul really loved them and it hurt him to hear about all the things they were doing. He appeals to them to change from their ways. He tells them to stay away from evil doers and to stay away from sin (6:14-17, 7:1). He is trying to get them to unite as a body and to lay down their rights (12:5). He doesn't want to have a dark and sad time with them, but one of rejoicing and gladness, because they obey what he's telling them. He tells them that they should put others first and to boast in Christ work in them and not their own self righteousness or gifts.

What is the main idea of this book?

      The main idea that Paul is trying to get across to the church in Corinth is to lay down their pride and self righteousness. He preaches that he has done this and has gone through numerous persecutions (6:1-9). He appeals to them to put their trust in God instead of their own strength (1:9). The more they rely on God and boast in their weakness the more they glorify God (12:9-10). To become more like Christ is to live by the Spirit within them and not by their flesh (3:17-18). Paul addresses many other things in this letter, but what I saw over and over was this appeal to lay down their rights and their pride. They were putting themselves over their brothers and sisters in Christ. Paul tries to teach them that their church will flourish if they will humble themselves and put others ahead of themselves. He gives examples how he has done this himself, and he explains how they can do this. He concludes by telling them what glorifies God most and that is laying down their life and trusting fully in God.