Useful Bible Studies > 2 Corinthians Commentary > chapter 1

Paul had not yet returned to Corinth

2 Corinthians 1:15-18

Paul had always dealt with the Christians in Corinth in a sincere and honest manner. They however, were not completely sure about that, because they wanted him to visit them more often.

After Paul had established the church in Corinth, he spent some time in Antioch and Galatia*. He then remained for two years in Ephesus*. After that, he spent several months in Macedonia before he wrote 2 Corinthians. In this letter he said that, at last, he would come to Corinth soon*.

During much of that time, the Christians in Corinth had been urging Paul to come to help them. They had serious problems in their church. In reply, Paul had written a long letter (the Book of 1 Corinthians), but he had not yet come.

That fact upset them. They still loved and respected Paul*. However, it seemed as if his actions did not match his words. Paul had urged them to show love for each other*. He had insisted that he cared very much about them*. However, when they needed him, he sent either a letter, or someone else, instead.

Paul did not need to answer these things; God knew the truth about him. However, Paul considered it right to give an explanation to them*. Paul was not thinking about what was best for him, but for them. He had actually hoped to visit Corinth sooner, before he went into Macedonia. However, he wanted to visit them at the right time, when his visit would bring joy and not pain.

Paul had promised to come to Corinth again*, and that would happen soon. Paul had even expressed the hope that he would be there for the whole of that Winter*. That was what he actually did*. He spent three months there. Then he went to Judea.

Next part: God’s promises are certain (1:19-20)

 

* See complete article for these Bible references.

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© 2016, Keith Simons.