2 Corinthians 1 Footnotes

1:3 Paul’s defense of his ethical behavior is found throughout the letter (in particular at 1:3–2:27; 4:1-6; 5:11-13; 6:3–7:16; 11:1–12:19).

1:7 In addition to the arguments set forth in the introduction to this book, further evidence for unity between chaps. 1–9 and 10–13 can be found in the vocabulary Paul used within the four “sufferings” passages scattered throughout the whole of the letter (1:7-11; 4:8-10; 6:4-10; 11:23–12:10). Much of the vocabulary common to these passages occurs nowhere else in Paul’s writings; this is evidence for the overarching unity of the letter.

1:15 The major theme within 2 Corinthians is Paul’s defense of his ministry under the new covenant. Paul’s relationship with the Corinthians was now quite strained for three reasons. First, Paul didn’t return as promised. Instead, he sent a severe letter (1:15–2:4; 10:10; 12:13-15). Second, a face-to-face visit only deepened the conflict between Paul and the Corinthians (10:1-10; 13:3-4). Third, Paul refused to accept payment for ministry (11:8-9), and some Corinthians believed that Paul had been duplicitous in this matter. He made much of declining payment, but (his detractors said) his coworkers received money for him anyway (12:16-18).