As the Apostle Paul reflects on his ministry among the Corinthians church, a church he planted, he reminds Christians of the necessity of proclaiming Christ, living in such a way that commends Christ to others, and finding our confidence for these things in Him alone.
REFLECTION QUESTIONS
HEAD: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR MINDS TO HELP US UNDERSTAND GOD’S WORD.
Read Acts 18. How does this background on the origins of the church at Corinth help you better understand 2 Corinthians 2:14-36?
On the outside, Paul was anything but impressive. He was an afflicted, often rejected apostle. But in the final paragraph of chapter 2 (v.14-17), Paul describes himself in terms of triumph and glory. What is Paul getting at?
In ancient times, leaders were often validated through recommendation letters—much like the references we provide when applying to a school or for a job. Paul has no such letter, but he has something even better; what is it, according to 3:2? What does Paul mean?
HEART: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR AFFECTIONS TO HELP US LOVE GOD
Read 3:3 again with a special focus on the phrase, “not on tablets of stone, but on tablets of human hearts.” What does this mean? Use other scripture to support your answer.
What does Paul identify as the source of his confidence before God (3:4)? How does this encourage your heart when you feel insufficient for the work God has called you to?
HANDS: QUESTIONS AIMED AT OUR HANDS TO HELP US LIVE FOR GOD (PERSONALLY, COMMUNALLY, AND MISSIONALLY)
What does it mean to be a peddler of God’s word (2:17)? How can the church be on guard against peddlers of God’s word like those who came in to lead the Corinthians astray?
Through us Jesus spreads the knowledge of him everywhere (2:14). Are you living and speaking in such a way that spreads the knowledge of Christ? How can you grow in this area?