Although this is called Second Corinthians this is probably his third letter. Paul was involved in founding the church in Corinth, but later had to write 1 Corinthians to combat big problems in the church there. That letter didn’t go down well with some people, so Paul followed it up with a visit to Corinth and then another letter to help there be some reconciliation between himself and those who opposed him. 2 Corinthians is an additional letter written to continue to help in this process of healing.

Paul speaks of how his trials enabled him to rely more on the Lord (v8-10).  Paul doesn’t hide his vulnerability and calls for their prayerful support (v11). In the church it is important to pray for all who serve for we don’t know all that they’re enduring.

Paul uses criticism he was receiving for not fulfilling a promise to come to them (v16-18). He always wants to move people to focus on Jesus in whom all God’s promise find a ‘Yes’ (v19-20). In this world even, the best of people can let us down, but Christ is the faithful one who always keeps God’s promises and who never will fail us.