2 Corinthians 1:1-11
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Today we begin Paul's Second Letter to the church in Corinth! Corinth was a city known in the 1st century for its wealth and lust. It was a trade center with thousands of sailors who disembarked there. Its pagan temples encouraged the practice of sexual immorality along with idol worship. Thus, this was not an easy place for the early church! But clearly a place where the church was so needed! Below is a map of where Corinth is in Greece - it is about 48 miles west of Athens. And below that is a modern day photo of ancient remains of the pagan temple to Apollo from ancient Corinth:
~ Second Corinthians ~
Author: Paul the apostle
Place: Ephesus
Date: A.D. 57
Content: Paul’s earlier letter to the Corinthians had not settled all of the problems. It had some good effect upon them but much more remained to be done. In particular, Paul had to settle the problem concerning his own authority. Deep suspicions had been aroused concerning him, for what reasons we do not fully understand. But in great anguish Paul writes to reestablish his own apostolic authority. He also attempts to deal with some more practical matters, like supporting the poor believers elsewhere.
Theme: Triumph over adversity is seen throughout this letter. It is a very personal one, written by one who loved his people but had been deeply wronged by them. As Paul catalogs the experiences of his life and the nature of the Christian ministry, it is possible to see the grace of God at work bringing good from evil. Satan is active, seeking to destroy God’s work, but God is greater still, establishing those who trust in him. (Above commentary is from Tyndale Publishers “The One Year Bible Companion” p. 25) More commentary on Second Corinthians is at this link. Below is "The Apostle Paul", by the artist Rembrandt from the year 1657:
Bible.org's commentary on today's readings in Second Corinthians chapter 1 titled "Why Bad things happen to God's people" is at this link. Below is a great image for 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 from today's readings from what looks to be Guatemala to me. (though maybe this picture is more South America/Andes region?) I had the good fortune to travel to Guatemala two years ago - and I miss it! It is a beautiful country with beautiful people!
Worship Video: Today's readings reminded me of The After's wonderful song called "Light Up the Sky." Here's a great live version of this song:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5UpWVQbbKVo
Has God lit up the sky for you? Click here for Light!
Please join us in memorizing and meditating on two verses of Scripture today: "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God." 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 (NIV)
Prayer Point: Pray a prayer of praise to God, our Father of compassion and comfort! Pray that you will comfort those in your life who are in any trouble, with the comfort you yourself have received from God through a saving relationship with Jesus Christ.
Comments from You: What verses or insights stand out to you in today's readings? Please post up by clicking on the "Comments" link below!
God bless,
Mike
p.s. I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!
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