2 Corinthians isn’t only about Apostle Paul trying to affirm his authority or defend his teachings to the Corinthian Church he founded. Many of the principles he pointed out some two thousand years ago are still relevant, true as well as practical and useful for today’s Churches. Some of the Christian themes he highlighted include:

Personal trials and sufferings: Apostle Paul has endured much opposition, persecution, and also a physical “thorn in the flesh”. “To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassing great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me” (2 Corinthians 12:7). Through such painful experiences, God expects us to learn to comfort others as is required of those who chose to follow in Jesus’ footsteps.

Church discipline: Immorality in the Church must not be allowed to go unchecked and need to be dealt with wisely and appropriately. The aim of the Church should be to correct and restore with love, not punishment as the guiding factor.

Future hope: By focusing our efforts on heavenly treasures, we can endure present sufferings and adversities and overcome the painful experiences of this earthly world. Receiving our new resurrection bodies in heaven should give us hope and our faithful service to God will finally end up in triumph.

Generosity in giving: Paul encouraged members of the Corinthian Church to continue to give generously to help those in need. “Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). This will encourage them to give thanks to God. We should, like the Corinthians, follow through our commitments to the Church’s needs.

Sound doctrine: Apostle Paul’s ministry and authority were challenged by false prophets. He knew that the integrity of sound doctrine was vital to the health of the Church. It was his sincere love for believers that drove him to defend his authority as an Apostle of Jesus. He openly shares his ministry in response to the attack on his character and authority.

Therefore, 2 Corinthians should be an important book for all of us who wish to serve God and be engaged in various Christian ministries. It has much to teach us about being blameless, sincere, confident, caring, open and willing to suffer for the sake of Jesus. “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God” (2 Corinthians 5:20).