Study 2 Corinthians!

A significant part of Paul's apostolic ministry in the mid 50's AD was the organising and delivery of a financial collection he made for the church in Jerusalem. The church in Corinth was enthusiastic at first reflected in Paul's brief and businesslike advice in 1 Cor 16:1-4 advice but that enthusiasm faded fast. In 2 Corinthians 8-9 Paul writes to urge the Corinthians to finish what they have begun. His appeal is not to a fundraising push but to participate in the gracious giving of God. He is sensitive to the anxieties of the church, telling them that no one is having an easy ride at their expense and assuring them that they are being asked to give what they can and not to give what they do not have.

• Study 2 Corinthians! explores the most sustained teaching in the whole BIble on the subject of giving where, paradoxically, Paul never uses the word "money" at all! See the 2 Cor. Introduction
• The study also helps group members develop their own “money autobiography”, how our money story influences us and affects how we the Bible. A separate list of questions is available.
• Study 2 Corinthians is most suitable for people already familiar with small group Bible study and will prove to be a rewarding and indeed life changing study. For those new to small group work or to reading the Bible the narrative based Study Exodus! or the Gospel based Study Luke! may be more appropriate.
• Study 2 Corinthians can be used as a standalone Bible study or to complement the Preach 2 Corinthians! resource for Sunday preaching. Study group leaders may find the background sermon notes and sample sermons for each passage helpful. These can be accessed from the 2 Corinthians lectionary table.
• The Study 2 Corinthians! resources can be accessed from the sidebar on this page. They separate files are paginated consecutively for ease of reference.
• Brief guidelines for small group facilitators are available