The Greek text of Paul's most personal epistle is fully explicated against the backdrop of his tumultuous relations with new converts in Corinth. Believing that Scripture cannot be understood theologically unless it has first been understood grammatically, Murray J. Harris provides a careful, thoroughgoing reading of the text of 2 Corinthians. He gives special attention to matters of translation, making regular references not only to the standard modern English translations but also to influential older versions such as The Twentieth Century New Testament and those by Weymouth, Moffatt, and Goodspeed. His close attention to matters of textual criticism and grammar leads to discussions of the theology of 2 Corinthians that show the relevance of Paul's teaching to Christian living and church ministry. Other notable features include a comprehensive introduction in which all the relevant literary and historical issues are discussed, an expanded paraphrase of the letter that conveniently shows Harris's decisions on exegetical issues and indicates the flow of Paul's argument, a chronology of the relations of Paul, Timothy, and Titus with the Corinthian church, and an excursus on Paul's "affliction in Asia" (1:8-11) and its influence on his outlook and theology.

This commentary illuminates the historical background of the church at Corinth and clarifies the meaning of Paul's passionate letter both for those first-century Christians and for today. Barnett assumes and offers argument for the unity of the letter and takes the view that Paul is addressing the issue of triumphalism in Corinth expressed by the newly arrived missioners who portray Paul as inferior to themselves. It is also endemic among the Corinthians and according to Barnett, the recurring theme of the letter is power-in-weakness, based on the motif of the Resurrection of the Crucified, which lies at the heart of the gospel of Christ.

This commentary features the complete NIV text, including transliterated Hebrew and Greek for the benefit of the non-specialist. Emphasizing theological unity of Scripture as a whole, Dr. Garland also provides concise historical background to help you better understand the context of each biblical book. Brief biographies and helpful indexes round out this outstanding resource.

In an age of proliferating commentary series, one might easily ask why add yet another to the seeming glut. The simplest answer is that no other series is written to and from the church, that seeks to move from the text to its contemporary application. No other series offers the unique combination of solid, evangelical biblical exposition and helpful explanatory notes in the same user friendly format. No other series has tapped the unique blend of scholars and pastors who share both a passion for faithful exegesis and a deep concern for the church. In this careful study of 2 Corinthians, readers will find an introduction that discusses the letter's occasion and purpose, authorship, and other background information, as well as its important theological themes.