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2 Corinthians-1

Pressing On: A Devotional Study on 2 Corinthians 1​

Introduction​

The letter of 2 Corinthians is a long-awaited response from the apostle Paul to the church in Corinth. It's a letter filled with heartfelt confession, sincere advice, and unrelenting hope. Let's dive into the first chapter of this letter, reflecting on its profound truths and spiritual insights.

Section 1: Greetings and Thanksgiving (2 Corinthians 1:1-11)​

Devotional Thought: Paul greets the church in Corinth with wishes of grace and peace. He then shifts his focus to thank the Father for the grace bestowed on the church and their faith in Him. Paul's words remind us to cultivate an attitude of gratitude towards God and trust in His divine grace.

Reflection Questions:

  • What are some things we can be thankful for, despite the challenging circumstances we face?
  • How can we cultivate an attitude of gratitude towards God, despite our difficulty in expressing it?

Section 2: Tribulation and Comforter (2 Corinthians 1:12-14)​

Paul reassures the church that their tribulations are not to be forgotten but instead to be cherished and regarded as opportunities for Christ's presence to work through Him. This hope-filled perspective is a comfort to us all. Let's take a moment to reflect on how our tribulations can be opportunities for Christ's presence in our lives.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can our struggles be opportunities to experience Christ's presence?
  • How can we regularly remind ourselves of this hope-filled perspective?

Section 3: The Leaven of the Pharisees and Herod (2 Corinthians 1:15-11)​

Paul explains that trials are commonplace, and their adverse outcomes are nothing new. Nevertheless, he adds, it's imperative to acknowledge that there's something distinct about the trials the church in Corinth is presently facing. These trials are adorned by the 'leaven' of the Pharisees and Herod.

Let's meditate on what Paul was communicating, particularly regarding how the 'leaven' of the Pharisees and Herod makes their trials distinctive. How does this illustrate the challenge of testing in the midst of a pluralistic culture, and what can we learn from this?

Reflection Questions:

  • How can we differentiate between the leaven of the Pharisees and Herod and the refining work of God in our lives?
  • What lessons can we learn from this text regarding remaining steadfast in Christian faith in a pluralistic culture?

Section 4: The Christians (2 Corinthians 1:12-14)​

Paul's final words in the chapter focus on an affirmation that Christians are not ordinary people but are, in fact, 'extra-ordinary'. Such an affirmation strengthens our faith and directs us to a God-centered worldview.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can acknowledging our Christian identity bolster our faith in Christ?
  • In what ways can we practically live out this Christian identity amidst a secular culture?

Conclusion:​

As we conclude our devotional journey through the first chapter of 2 Corinthians, let's renew our faith in Christ and recognize the significance of our unique identity as Christians. May we embrace such a God-centered worldview and live out our faith that honors Christ in all our ways.