2 CorinthiansSample

Paul begins the description of apostleship by framing it as an embodiment of the gospel - Jesus’ death and resurrection - which we live out in our own person, our own body. There’s no shying away from laying out the cost of discipleship here. N.T. Wright says, “If you want to see resurrection at work here and now, in your own life, you have to be prepared to see crucifixion at work as well.”(p.45, Paul for Everyone: 2 Corinthians).

Embodying the gospel is facing the problems and sufferings of the world head-on, just as Christ did, whose life and death are at work in us and through us for the benefit of the Church. Paul’s example of pain and endurance is meant to bring this same resurrection life among the Corinthians as they learn discipleship and reliance on God amid adversity. This passage is a huge source of comfort for those going through pain, heartbreak, temptation, and sorrow of all kinds!