2 CORINTHIANS - PAUL'S MINISTRY IN THE LIGHT OF THE INDESCRIBABLE GIFT
Click chart to enlarge
Charts from Jensen's Survey of the NT - used by permission
Another Chart from Charles Swindoll
Overview of Second Corinthians |
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2Co 1:1-7:16 Character of Paul |
2Co 8:1-9:15 Collection for the Saints |
2Co 10:1-12:21 Credentials of Paul |
Testimonial & Didactic | Practical | Apologetic |
Past: Misunderstanding & Explanation |
Present: Practical Project |
Future: Anxieties |
Apostle's Conciliation, Ministry & Exhortations | Apostle's Solicitation for Judean Saints | Apostle's Vindication of Himself |
Forgiveness, Reconciliation Gratitude |
Confidence | Vindication |
Ephesus to Macedonia: |
Macedonia: Preparation for Visit to Corinth |
To Corinth: |
2Co 1:1-7:16 |
2Co 8:1-9:15 |
2Co 10:1-12:21 |
2 Corinthians written ~ 56-57AD - see Chronological Table of Paul's Life and Ministry |
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Adapted & modified from Jensen's Survey of the New Testament (Highly Recommended Resource) & Wilkinson's Talk Thru the Bible |
- IRVING JENSEN - Introduction and study tips - excellent preliminary resource - scroll to page 1877 (Notes on both 1-2 Cor begin on p 1829)
- JOHN MACARTHUR 2 Corinthians Introduction - same as in the Study Bible
- JAMES VAN DINE 2 Corinthians - Author, Purpose, Outline, Argument
- CHARLES SWINDOLL - 2 Corinthians Overview
- MARK SEIFRID - The Message of Second Corinthians: 2 Corinthians as the Legitimation of the Apostle
- J VERNON MCGEE - 2 Corinthians Introduction
- DAN WALLACE - 2 Corinthians: Introduction, Argument, and Outline
- DAVID MALICK - An Introduction To Second Corinthians
Explanation - The following list includes not only commentaries but other Christian works by well known evangelical writers. Most of the resources below are newer works (written after 1970) which previously were available only for purchase in book form or in a Bible computer program. The resources are made freely available by archive.org but have several caveats - (1) they do not allow copy and paste, (2) they can only be checked out for one hour (but can be checked out immediately when your hour expires giving you time to read or take notes on a lengthy section) and (3) they require creating an account which allows you to check out the books free of charge. To set up an account click archive.org and then click the picture of the person in right upper corner and enter email and a password. That's all you have to do. Then you can read these more modern resources free of charge! I have read or used many of these resources but not all of them so ultimately you will need to be a Berean (Acts 17:11+) as you use them. I have also selected works that are conservative and Biblically sound. If you find one that you think does not meet those criteria please send an email at https://www.preceptaustin.org/
WARREN WIERSBE Be encouraged : God can turn your trials into triumphs : NT commentary, 2 Corinthians Wiersbe's commentaries are always worth consulting for preaching and teaching jewels.
WARREN WIERSBE Be encouraged : God can turn your trials into triumphs : NT commentary, 2 Corinthians (ANOTHER COPY OF THIS BOOK)
With the Word - Devotional Commentary - Warren Wiersbe - 428 ratings
The Bible Exposition Commentary - Ephesians through Revelation - Warren Wiersbe
Bible Exposition Commentary - New Testament
Wiersbe's Expository Outlines on the New Testament by Wiersbe, Warren W
Cyril Barber - This is a book of exceptional merit. Pastors, missionaries, and Christian workers will profit from its use. Wiersbe introduces each book of the NT, provides an outline, and then furnishes his readers with a chapter-by-chapter discussion of the contents. The homiletic style is a “plus.” Recommended.
The Preacher's Outline & Sermon Bible : New Testament, King James Version - Acts, Romans, 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians - This is a very useful resource which always includes numerous related cross-references. It will be of aid to you preaching and teaching.
PAUL BARNETT The message of 2 Corinthians : power in weakness The Bible Speaks Today. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1988.
Cyril Barber - With remarkable brevity Barnett gets to the heart of Paul's second letter to the believers in Corinth. He cuts through extraneous material and presents his readers with a clear exposition of the meaning of the text.
James Rosscup - A flowing, competent, broad commentary on the message of sections and on Paul as a minister and human being with weaknesses facing problems and criticisms but experiencing God’s power in his weakness. Barnett often has good application to concerns today. He devotes more detail to chapters 1–6 (100 pp.), and is cursory on such problems as “thorn” (Chapter 12). The book is a refreshment for a series of devotional times and often a catalyst for grasping and ministering the Word.
C K BARRETT - A commentary on the Second Epistle to the Corinthians
Cyril Barber - Harper's New Testament Commentaries. New York: Harper & Row, 1973. An exegetical study that will be of help to the expository preacher. Barrett is always worth consulting.
KENNETH CHAFIN The Communicator's Commentary. 1, 2 Corinthians by Chafin, Kenneth 9 ratings (Now published as The Preacher's Commentary)
James Rosscup says this is part of "A 12-vol. set done by 12 men selected for unusual ability to show the Bible is alive in biblical exposition, with spiritual refreshment and insight. The authors seek to combine scholarship on biblical meaning, illustrations to spark applications, and outlines."
F W DANKER II Corinthians - Augsburg Commentary. Augsburg Publishing House, 1989.
Cyril Barber - Danker is a careful expositor and a man of remarkable erudition and perception. Here is a brief exposition that many will find helpful.
CHARLES ERDMAN The Second epistle of Paul to the Corinthians; an exposition
PHILIP EDGCUMBER HUGHES Paul's Second epistle to the Corinthians (Another copy of this book)
James Rosscup - This is detailed (508 pages), uses the Greek carefully, discusses technical details in the footnotes, deals carefully and sometimes at length with problems, and shows acquaintance with a great number of other works. It is one of the finer earlier contributions to the NIC series.
Logos.com - Hughes is a GREAT commentator. Everything I've read by him is chock full of solid theology and interpreting Scripture with Scripture. VERY rich reading that stirs the heart. (Martin Stidham)
ROBERT B HUGHES Second Corinthians from Everyman's Bible Commentary series.
COLIN KRUSE The Second Epistle of Paul to the Corinthians : an introduction and commentary - Tyndale NT Commentaries
James Rosscup - R. V. G. Tasker’s work served well for years, but Kruse’s replaces it with stronger exegesis. It is a fairly concise evangelical effort that brings together much that is of help in following the thought through and dealing with problems in a well written flow, using the NIV.
Tim Challies - Colin Kruse’s contribution to the Tyndale New Testament Commentary series is the place to begin for someone looking for a relatively short and general-level commentary. This one fits within the limitations of that series which makes it especially helpful for the person who is doing a quicker and less in-depth study.
ROY L LAURIN Second Corinthians : where life endures (Another copy) Kregel Publications, 1985.
D A Carson - "The sermons in this book are lightly edited versions of the regular ministry at Eden Baptist Church, Cambridge. They will help all who take the Bible seriously not only to understand 2 Corinthians better but also to apply that letter from Paul's hand to us who live at the end of the twentieth century....Here is powerful exposition of the Gospel of God -- spiritual nourishment for believers everywhere, and a robust model for preachers who want to improve their own gifts."
Cyril Barber - With genuine devotional warmth, Laurin explains how life endures and matures in accordance with the plan and purpose of God. Recommended.
KNOFEL STATON Second Corinthians : unlocking the Scriptures for you
Logos.com - This nontechnical commentary on Second Corinthians analyzes the continued problems the church in Corinth faced. It provides a look into the historical, cultural, and religious contexts surrounding the epistle, and illustrates how the message of First Corinthians is still contemporarily relevant in today’s churches.
RAY STEDMAN Expository studies in 2 Corinthians: power out of weakness
R PAUL STEVENS - 2 Corinthians - 12 Studies - Lifebuilder Bible Study (See also 2 Corinthians)
CHARLES SWINDOLL A minister everyone would respect : a study of 2 Corinthians 8-13
R V G TASKER The Second epistle of Paul to the Corinthians : an introduction and commentary
James Rosscup - This is a good brief conservative work which, among other things, argues for the unity of the epistle. Kruse’s study has replaced it.
MARGARET THRALL - A critical and exegetical commentary on the second epistle to the Corinthians
Cyril Barber - Thrall, Margaret E. A Critical and Exegetical Commentary on the Second Epistle to the Corinthians. Edinburgh: T. and T. Clark, 1994- . Replaces the earlier work by Plummer. Gives evidence of the writer’s exacting scholarship. Makes plain the meaning of the original text. From the distinctions drawn by Miss Thrall the perceptive pastor should be able to enliven and sharpen the focus of each expository message that he bases on this very personal epistle.
GEOFFREY B WILSON 2 Corinthians; a digest of reformed comment
Banner of Truth - Geoffrey Wilson’s commentaries constitute a wonderful collection of quotes by a multitude of authors such as J. C. Ryle, A. W. Pink, B. B. Warfield, R. L. Dabney, Charles Hodges, John Calvin, Robert Haldane, Abraham Kyper to name a few in addition to Geoffrey Wilson’s own thoughtful and enlightening commentary. It would take most of us many years to study the sermons and works of so many reformed and Puritan authors and select and apply their very insightful comments to each verse, but praise be to God, Geoffrey Wilson has done that for us. I highly recommend these commentaries for sermon-and-lesson preparation, for individual Bible study, and as devotional reading for one’s personal edification. (Jon Butcher)
BEN WITHERINGTON III Conflict and community in Corinth : a socio-rhetorical commentary on 1 and 2 Corinthians 7 ratings
Bruce W. Winter, Tyndale House, Cambridge - Ben Witherington has produced an innovative commentary on 1 and 2 Corinthians, making use of both ancient and modern tools to highlight aspects of the Corinthian situation and of the argument of Paul’s letters that have not been unearthed by previous commentators.
Note: The first 4 resources have no time restriction and allow copy and paste function:
(1) KJV Bible Commentary - Hindson, Edward E; Kroll, Woodrow Michael. Over 3000 pages of the entire OT/NT. Well done conservative commentary that interprets Scripture from a literal perspective. Pre-millennial. User reviews - it generally gets 4/5 stars from users. - 372 ratings
Very well done conservative commentary that interprets Scripture from a literal perspective user reviews
The King James Version Bible Commentary is a complete verse-by-verse commentary. It is comprehensive in scope, reliable in scholarship, and easy to use. Its authors are leading evangelical theologians who provide practical truths and biblical principles. Any Bible student will gain new insights through this one-volume commentary based on the timeless King James Version of the Bible.
(2) The King James Study Bible Second Edition 2240 pages (2013) (Thomas Nelson) General Editor - Edward Hindson with multiple contributing editors. . 3,194 ratings. Pre-millennial. See introduction on How to Use this Study Bible.
(3) NKJV Study Bible: New King James Version Study Bible (formerly "The Nelson Study Bible - NKJV") by Earl D Radmacher; Ronald Barclay Allen; Wayne H House. 2345 pages. (1997, 2007). Very helpful notes. Conservative. Pre-millennial. 917 ratings
(4) The Wycliffe Bible Commentary - only the New Testament (for OT see below to borrow) - 1126 pages. (1971) Everett F Harrison - Editor of New Testament. Uses the KJV. Strictly speaking not a study Bible, but short notes are similar. KJV text in left column, commentary notes in right column. The comments are generally verse by verse, short, conservative and to the point. Pre-millennial.
Rosscup - Conservative and premillennial scholars here have been experts in their fields. The work contains brief introductions and attempts to give a verse-by-verse exposition, though it does skip over some verses. The treatments vary with the authors, but as a whole it is a fine one-volume commentary for pastors and students to use or give to a layman. Outstanding sections include, for example: Whitcomb on Ezra-Nehemiah-Esther; Culver on Daniel; Ladd on Acts; Harrison on Galatians; Johnson on I Corinthians; and Ryrie on the Johannine Epistles.
Zondervan NIV Study Bible - (2011) 2570 pages - Use this one if available as it has more notes than edition below. One hour limit
NIV Study Bible by Barker, Kenneth L; Burdick, Donald W (1995) 2250 pages. This is the first edition. This resource has been fully revised in 2020. One hour limit
Believer's Bible Commentary - OT and NT - MacDonald, William (1995) 2480 pages. Conservative. Literal. Often has very insightful comments. John MacArthur, says "Concise yet comprehensive - the most complete single-volume commentary I have seen." Warren Wiersbe adds "For the student who is serious about seeing Christ in the Word." One hour limit.
Rosscup - This work, originally issued in 1983, is conservative and premillennial, written to help teachers, preachers and people in every walk of life with different views, explanation and application. The 2-column format runs verse by verse for the most part, usually in a helpfully knowledgeable manner, and there are several special sections such as “Prayer” in Acts and “Legalism” in Galatians. The premillennial view is evident on Acts 1:6, 3:20, Romans 11:26, Galatians 6:16, Revelation 20, etc.
HCSB Study Bible : Holman Christian Standard Bible - General Editor Jeremy Royal Howard (2010) 2360 pages. Conservative. Good notes. Include Holmans excellent maps.
Zondervan King James Version commentary - New Testament
Life Application Study Bible: Old Testament and New Testament: New Living Translation.
Has some very helpful notes especially with application of texts. 4,445 ratings One hour limit
The MacArthur study Bible - John MacArthur. Brief but well done notes for conservative, literal perspective. 1,275 ratings
ESV study Bible - Excellent resource but not always literal in eschatology and the nation of Israel 6,004 ratings
The David Jeremiah Study Bible - (2013) 2208 pages. 2,272 ratings
Logos.com - "Drawing on more than 40 years of study, Dr. David Jeremiah has compiled a legacy resource that will make an eternal impact on generations to come. 8,000 study notes. Hundreds of enriching word studies"50+ Essentials of the Christian Faith" articles."
The Defender's Study Bible : King James Version by Morris, Henry M. Excellent notes by well known creationist. 45 ratings
The Ryrie Study Bible - Charles Ryrie (1978) 2142 pages. Conservative.
Ryrie Study Bible Expanded Edition (1994) 2232 pages
The Apologetics Study Bible Understand Why You Believe by Norman Geisler
NIV Archaeological Study Bible (2005) 2360 pages 950 ratings (See also Archaeology and the Bible - OT and NT)
RANDY ALCORN The treasure principle (Or Here) (See also in depth commentary - 2 Corinthians 5:10)
“Supercharged with stunning, divine truth! Lightning struck over and over as I read it.” -John Piper
“The Treasure Principle will change your life! This book is destined to become a classic.” -Howard Dayton, Co-CEO, Crown Financial Ministries
“The Scripture passages and illustrations really ring true. Just what I needed!” -Hugh Maclellan, President, The Maclellan Foundation
“I enthusiastically endorse The Treasure Principle. I hope millions will read it.” -Ronald W. Blue, Founder and CEO, Ronald Blue & Company
NIV Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible. Bringing to Life the Ancient World of Scripture Keener, Craig and Walton, John. Editors (2017)
New Bible Commentary - (1994) See user reviews
Compact Bible commentary by Radmacher, Earl D; Allen, Ronald Barclay; House, H Wayne, et al - 954 pages. 424 ratings Multiple contributors to the comments which are often verse by verse. The comments are brief but meaty and can really help your study through a given book. A sleeper in my opinion.
The Experiencing God Study Bible: the Bible for knowing and doing the will of God - Blackaby, Henry (1996) 1968 pages - CHECK THIS ONE! Each chapter begins with several questions under the title "PREPARE TO MEET GOD." Then you will interesting symbols before many of the passages. The chapter ends with a "DID YOU NOTICE?" question. This might make a "dry chapter" jump off the page! Read some of the 48 ratings
Disciple's study Bible: New international version 54 ratings Not that helpful for verse by verse study. Focuses on application of Christian doctrines. 10,000 annotations; doctrinal summaries, "Life Helps" section relate doctrine to everyday discipleship.
The Living Insights Study Bible : New International Version - Charles Swindoll. Notes are good but somewhat sparse and not verse by verse.
The Holman illustrated study Bible 120 ratings Includes the excellent Holman maps but otherwise of little help in serious study.
NIV Celebrate Recovery Study Bible
Daily Study Bible for Women : New Living Translation
The Woman's Study Bible : the New King James Version
The Study Bible for Women : Holman Christian Standard Bible
Daily Study Bible for Men : New Living Translation
NIV Topical Study Bible : New International Version
The Hebrew-Greek key study Bible : New American standard study by Strong, James, 1822-1894; Zodhiates, Spiros
The New Inductive Study Bible : updated New American Standard Bible - Introductions of each book give suggestions how to perform an inductive study on that specific book. Not strictly speaking a "study Bible" with notes but a Bible to help you study inductively. Has wide margins for making notes. This is one that works best in "paper," not digitally.
Evangelical Commentary on the Bible - Judges by Andrew Boling (20 pages); editor Walter Elwell (1989) 1239 pages. User reviews. (See also Boling's 380 page commentary on Judges the Anchor Bible Series)
Halley's Bible Handbook Henry H. Halley - (2000) 2720 pages (much larger than original edition in 1965 and no time limit on use). (Halley's Bible handbook : an abbreviated Bible commentary - one hour limit 1965 872 pages)
Rosscup - A much-used older evangelical handbook bringing together a brief commentary on Bible books, some key archaeological findings, historical background, maps, quotes, etc. It is helpful to a lay Bible teacher, Sunday School leader, or pastor looking for quick, pertinent information on a Bible book. This is the 72nd printing somewhat revised. Halley packed in much information. Unger’s is better overall, but that is not to say that Halley’s will not provide much help on basic information.
The Shaw Pocket Bible Handbook - Editor - Walter Elwell (1984) 408 pages.
"This hardback is small in size but packed full of content: Brief summaries of every book of the bible, cultural, archaeological and historical info, word definitions, pictures, maps and charts." Worth checking!
The Lion handbook to the Bible - (1999) 822 pages. This resource is absolutely loaded with very nice color pictures and charts.
Harper study Bible : the Holy Bible, Revised Standard Version
The Jewish Study Bible - Only OT - Interesting Jewish perspective.
The Student Bible : New International Version
Hebrew-Greek key word study Bible : New international version
Key word commentary : thoughts on every chapter of the Bible by Water, Mark
Eerdmans' Family Encyclopedia of the Bible (1978) 344 pages
Eerdmans' Handbook to the Bible (1983) 688 pages
Tyndale Handbook of Bible charts & maps by Wilson, Neil
Commentary on the New Testament use of the Old Testament - G K Beale, D A Carson
Bible Handbook and A-Z bible encyclopedia
International Children's Bible field guide : answering kids' questions from Genesis to Revelation by Richards, Larry
The illustrated guide to Bible customs & curiosities by Knight, George W. (George William),
Today's handbook of Bible times & customs by Coleman, William L
Unger's Commentary on the Old Testament (Volume 2 - Isaiah - Malachi) by Unger, Merrill Frederick, 1909- (1981) 972 pages.
The new Unger's Bible dictionary by Unger, Merrill Frederick, 1909-
Nelson's illustrated encyclopedia of Bible facts by Packer, J. I. (James Innell); Tenney, Merrill C.
Survey of the Bible : introductory insights, background studies, book-by- book survey by Unger, Merrill Frederick
The parallel New Testament and Unger's Bible handbook : produced for Moody monthly by Unger, Merrill (1975) 744 pages 4 ratings
The Hodder Bible handbook by Unger, Merrill
Nelson's expository dictionary of the Old Testament by Unger, Merrill
Kregel Bible handbook : a full-color guide to every book of the Bible by Kerr, William 3 ratings
The new encyclopedia of Christian quotations by Water, Mark
New Testament words - William Barclay - very interesting resource - covers about 70 NT Greek words in Barclay's unique style
Zondervan handbook to the Bible
Zondervan illustrated Bible backgrounds commentary - Matthew, Mark, Luke - 552 pages. (2002) See user reviews.
Zondervan illustrated Bible backgrounds commentary - John
Zondervan illustrated Bible backgrounds commentary - Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, Daniel
Dictionary of Paul and his letters 180 ratings IVP Series The Dictionary of Paul and His Letters is a one-of-a-kind reference work. Following the format of its highly successful companion volume, the Dictionary of Jesus and the Gospels, this Dictionary is designed to bring students, teachers, ministers and laypeople abreast of the established conclusions and significant recent developments in Pauline scholarship. No other single reference work presents as much information focused exclusively on Pauline theology, literature, background and scholarship. In a field that recently has undergone significant shifts in perspective, the Dictionary of Paul and His Letters offers a summa of Paul and Pauline studies. In-depth articles focus on individual theological themes (such as law, resurrection and Son of God), broad theological topics (such as Christology, eschatology and the death of Christ), methods of interpretation (such as rhetorical criticism and social-scientific approaches), background topics (such as apocalypticism, Hellenism and Qumran) and various other subjects specifically related to the scholarly study of Pauline theology and literature (such as early catholicism, the center of Paul's theology, and Paul and his interpreters since F. C. Baur). Separate articles are also devoted to each of the Pauline letters to hermeneutics and to preaching Paul today.
Dictionary of the later New Testament & its developments 71 ratings IVP Series The third of IVP's critically acclaimed series of dictionaries of the New Testament provides focused study on the often-neglected portions of the New Testament: Acts, Hebrews, the General Epistles, and Revelation. Furthermore, its scope goes beyond the life of the New Testament church to include the work of the apostolic fathers and early Christianity up through the middle of the second century.
Dictionary of New Testament background 79 ratings IVP Series In a time when our knowledge of the ancient Mediterranean world has grown by leaps and bounds, this volume sets out for readers the wealth of Jewish and Greco-Roman background that should inform our reading and understanding of the New Testament and early Christianity. The Dictionary of New Testament Background takes full advantage of the flourishing study of the Dead Sea Scrolls and offers individual articles focused on the most important scrolls. In addition, the Dictionary encompasses the fullness of second-temple Jewish writings, whether pseudepigraphic, rabbinic, parables, proverbs, histories or inscriptions. Articles abound on aspects of Jewish life and thought, including family, purity, liturgy and messianism. The full scope of Greco-Roman culture is displayed in articles ranging across language and rhetoric, literacy and book culture, religion and cults, honor and shame, patronage and benefactors, travel and trade, intellectual movements and ideas, and ancient geographical perspectives. No other reference work presents so much in one place for students of the New Testament. Here an entire library of scholarship is made available in summary form.
Dictionary of deities and demons in the Bible (DDD) - 950 pages (1995) Read some of the 65 ratings (4.8/5 Stars). A definitive in depth resource on this subject. Very expensive to purchase.
NOTE - All of these resources can be borrowed from archive.org. This list also includes resources to help study the Bible.
See also the list of Word Study Resources
The Complete Word Study Dictionary: New Testament by Zodhiates, Spiros - This is my "go to" resource for Greek word studies. One on the best lexicons for laymen. Highly Recommended for Greek Word Studies to aid your interpretation of a passage.
Analytical Lexicon of the Greek New Testament by Friberg, Timothy. Shorter definitions than Zodhiates but does an excellent job in summarizing the various nuances of a specific Greek word. One of my favorites.
Shorter Lexicon of the Greek New Testament by Gingrich, F. Wilbur. Similar to Friberg but shorter definitions. Gingrich however gives more Scriptures for each nuance, whereas Friberg generally gives only one representative Scripture.
The New Linguistic and Exegetical Key to the Greek New Testament by Rogers, Cleon - This book is a gold mine of little gems on individual Greek words in any NT passage you are studying. If you have time it is always worth checking out! I use it in my Greek word studies all the time.
New Testament Words - William Barclay - 59 ratings very interesting resource - covers about 70 NT Greek words in Barclay's unique style. On page 289 there is a helpful index of English words with the corresponding Greek word, in turn followed by the places Barclay described them in New Testament Words and in his Daily Study Bible series (see list of DSB commentaries here). E.g., take the Greek word for "Covetousness" which is pleonexia and is found in New Testament Words on page 61 and pp 233-235 and is also described in the Daily Study Bible entries for : Mark 7:14-23; Ro 1:28-32; Eph. 4:17-24; Col. 3:5. So you can click the DSB commentary on Mark 7 and scroll down to Mark 7:14 to see Barclay's entry for pleonexia which concludes "Pleonexia ( G4124) is that lust for having which is in the heart of the man who sees happiness in things instead of in God." Interesting!
Greek-English lexicon of the New Testament : based on semantic domains - Louw Nida. Brief but nice definitions. Not easy to use - you need to know some Greek. Classifies Greek words into 93 "semantic domains" (see list on page XXV) and if you can categorize the word you are looking for in one of the domains, it can help find the specific word you are interested in.
Kittel's Theological Dictionary of the New Testament : abridged in one volume (TDNT) - Classic ("Little Kittel") work summarizing the 10 volume set by Kittel. For most of us the abridged definition is "more than enough!"
A Greek-English lexicon of the New Testament, and other early Christian literature; by Bauer, Walter, More detailed definitions but need to know Greek. Zodhiates and Friberg much easier to use.
Liddell and Scott's Greek-English lexicon, abridged : the little Liddell by Liddell, Henry George. The abridged version. You need to know Greek to use.
Exegetical dictionary of the New Testament (Volume 1 - A thru E); Exegetical dictionary of the New Testament (Volume 3- P thru ...) Volume 2 not available. I do not find this adds much to the easier to use resources like Zodhiates and Friberg.
A pocket lexicon to the Greek New Testament by Souter, Alexander. Brief definitions. Need to know some Greek. Not that helpful.
Vine's Expository Dictionary of Old Testament and New Testament Words - pdf. The old standby. You can also borrow Vine's complete expository dictionary of Old and New Testament words
DANIEL AKIN
HENRY ALFORD - The New Testament for English Readers
HENRY ALFORD - The Greek New Testament
MIKE ANDRUS SERMONS
About 180 pages of sermons on 2 Corinthians - recommended. The links below will access both the Audio and the Notes. The notes are excellent.
- 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 The Man Who Visited Paradise and Returned to Tell About It
- 2 Corinthians 12:11-21 With Friends Like This, Who Needs Enemies?
PAUL APPLE COMMENTARY
- 2 Corinthians 145 Page Commentary - more modern commentary - recommended resource
WILLIAM BARCLAY COMMENTARY Daily Study Bible
D Edmond Hiebert - Uses author's own translation. Especially valuable for the historical background material presented. Good word studies and various illustrations. (from Hiebert's critique of Barclay on Peter's epistles - "Barclay holds that Christ's descent into Hades gave those who there heard Him a second chance.")
Comment: I appreciate Barclay's unique insights on Greek words, but clearly his teaching about a "second chance" is NOT sound doctrine! Be an Acts 17:11+ Berean with Barclay. See discussion of his orthodoxy especially the article "The Enigmatic William Barclay".
ALBERT BARNES COMMENTARY
JOSEPH BEET COMMENTARY
D Edmond Hiebert - A clear and full interpretation by a British Methodist scholar of the past century. Its doctrinal summaries are intended as a contribution to systematic theology.
BRIAN BELL SERMON NOTES
- 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 2 Tickets to Paradise
- 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 The Thorn & The Rose! - older sermon
- 2 Corinthians 12:11-13:10 Tested & Approved
- 2 Corinthians 12:11-13:14 Tests and Exams! - older sermon
SAME MATERIAL - some duplication but does not include the older sermons above
JOHANN A BENGEL Gnomon of the New Testament
James Rosscup writes "This work (Gnomon), originally issued in 1742, has considerable comment on the Greek, flavoring the effort with judicious details about the spiritual life. It has much that helps, but has been surpassed by many other commentaries since its day." (Commentaries for Biblical Expositors: An Annotated Bibliography of Selected Works or Logos)
JOHANN BENGEL The Critical English Testament
C H Spurgeon -- "'A Critical New Testament, so compiled as to enable a reader, unacquainted with Greek, to ascertain the exact English force and meaning of the language of the New Testament, and to appreciate the latest results of modern criticism.' Such is the professed aim of this commentary, and the compilers have very fairly carried out their intentions. The whole of Bengel’s Gnomon is bodily transferred into the work, and as one hundred and twenty years have elapsed since the first issue of that book, it may be supposed that much has since been added to the wealth of Scripture exposition; the substance of this has been incorporated in brackets, so as to bring it down to the present advanced state of knowledge. We strongly advise the purchase of this book, as it is multum in parvo, and will well repay an attentive perusal. Tischendorf and Alford have contributed largely, with other German and English critics, to make this one of the most lucid and concise commentaries on the text and teachings of the New Testament" (Spurgeon, C. H. Lectures to my Students, Vol. 4: Commenting and Commentaries; Lectures Addressed to the students of the Pastors' College, Metropolitan Tabernacle)
J H BERNARD Expositor's Greek Testament
CHRIS BENFIELD - sermons
BIBLE.ORG RESOURCES Resources that Reference 2 Corinthians
BIBLICAL ILLUSTRATOR Joseph Exell, Editor
JIM BOMKAMP
- 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 "Fool's Speech Part 3: Power Is Perfected Through Weakness"
- 2 Corinthians 12:11-21 "Fool's Speech Part 4: The Fear Of Not Meeting Each Other's Expectations"
BRIDGEWAY COMMENTARY - Donald Fleming
WICK BROOMALL - Wycliffe Bible Commentary
JOHN CALVIN COMMENTARY
CAMBRIDGE BIBLE FOR SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES
CAMBRIDGE GREEK TESTAMENT FOR SCHOOLS AND COLLEGES
ALAN CARR
RICH CATHERS SERMON NOTES
JOHN CHRYSOSTOM - homilies
CHURCH PULPIT COMMENTARY
ADAM CLARKE 2 CORINTHIANS COMMENTARY
Click brief critique of Clarke
GEORGE CLARK - People's Commentary - especially designed for pastors and Sunday Schools
THOMAS CONSTABLE - more modern commentary notes (as are Paul Apple, David Guzik, S Lewis Johnson, Rod Mattoon)
W A CRISWELL - sermons
- 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 TRIALS, TRIBULATIONS, AND THANKSGIVING
- 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 OUT OF WEAKNESS-STRENGTH
- 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 WITH THANKSGIVING TO GOD
RON DANIEL - SERMON NOTES
BOB DEFFINBAUGH SERMONS
- The Window, the Rope, and the Basket: Boasting in Our Weakness (2 Cor. 11:30-12:10)
- Paul’s Closing Argument, Appeal, and Blessing (2 Cor. 12:11-13:14)
JAMES DENNEY The Expositor's Bible (1906)
GER DE KONIG - See his short biography (Interesting commentary)
JOHN DUMMELOW - brief comments, older but well done work
WILLIAM EVANS
CHARLES ELLICOTT - EDITOR E H Plumptre author of this commentary
GARY EVERETT COMMENTARY
EXPLORE THE BOOK
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH JACKSON - J LIGON DUNCAN, DEREK THOMAS, et al
DON FORTNER
A C GAEBELEIN
GENE GETZ - essential principles, short videos
- 2 Corinthians 12:1-10; Encounters with God: Believers are to be cautious about anyone's claims to have received direct messages in God's holy presence. Video
- 2 Corinthians 12:14-13:13; A Pastoral Passion: All spiritual leaders in God's churches should have one major goal--to help all believers become mature in Jesus Christ. Video
JOHN GILL
DOUG GOINS SERMONS
- 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 The Relationship Between Ecstasy, Authenticity and Pain
- 2 Corinthians 12:11-18 Learning to Relate to Difficult People
- 2 Corinthians 12:19-13:4 The Spiritual Authority of Loving Care
GOT QUESTIONS
- 2 Corinthians 12:1-4 What does the Bible say about an out of body experience / astral projection?
- 2 Corinthians 12:2 Are there different levels of Heaven? Are there three heavens?
- 2 Corinthians 12:2-5 What does the Bible say about near death experiences?
- 2 Corinthians 12:7 What was Paul's thorn in the flesh?
- 2 Corinthians 12:9 What is the key to truly experiencing God?
L M GRANT
DAVE GUZIK COMMENTARY - modern commentary like Apple, Constable, S Lewis Johnson
JAMES HASTINGS
MATTHEW HENRY COMMENTARY
DAVID HOCKING - series of sermons
- Studies in 2 Corinthians - 93 pages - Interesting resource. Outline format with lots of alliteration.
CHARLES HODGE COMMENTARY
Cyril Barber - First published in 1859. This doctrinal commentary demonstrates the importance of exegesis in proper, biblical exposition. Also reveals the many facets of the apostle Paul's ministry. (The Minister's Library - Volume 2)
F B HOLE - brief intro
DAVID HOLWICK - frequent use of illustrations
INTERNATIONAL CRITICAL COMMENTARY - 2 Corinthians - A. A. Plummer
INTERVARSITY PRESS COMMENTARY - Linda Belleville
Cyril Barber - Belleville, Linda L. Second Corinthians. IVP New Testament Commentary. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 1995. A careful study of 2 Corinthians that contains many new insights. The author aims at elucidating the meaning of the text, and in this she succeeds. A popular resource. (The Minister's Library - Volume 2)
- Ecstatic Experiences (12:1-6)
- Paul's Stake (12:7-10)
- The Matter Is Summed Up (12:11-18)
- Paul Threatens Punishment on His Next Visit (12:19-13:4)
H A IRONSIDE
JAMIESON, FAUSSET, BROWN COMMENTARY
Below are links to the unabridged version of JFB:
IRVING JENSEN
- Irving Jensen's summation of 2 Corinthians with maps and charts - scroll down to page 1876
WILLIAM KELLY - Plymouth Brethren
STEVE KRELOFF preaches from the perspective of a Messianic believer
PAUL KRETZMANN - commentary, Lutheran expositor
COLIN KRUSE - 2 Corinthians - Tyndale New Testament Commentary
LANGE'S COMMENTARY C F Kling
D Edmond Hiebert - A voluminous conservative Lutheran exposition. The epistles are divided into convenient paragraphs, with the material under each section appearing in three parts, exegetical and critical, doctrinal and ethical, homiletical and practical. Contains much rich ore to be mined by those willing to dig into its closely printed pages.
S LEWIS JOHNSON - Sermons on 2 Corinthians
- 2 Corinthians 12:1-6 The Rapture of Paul
- 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 The Thorn, the Torment and the Grace
- 2 Corinthians 12:11-21 Confrontation
LIGONIER MINISTRY - Devotionals
JOHN MACARTHUR SERMONS
- 2 Corinthians 12:5-7 The Purpose of Pain
- 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 God's Purpose in Our Pain
- 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 The Sufficiency of God's Grace
- 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 Sufficient Grace for Humbling Circumstances, Part 1
- 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 Sufficient Grace for Humbling Circumstances, Part 2
- 2 Corinthians 12:7-8 How God Uses Suffering-1
- 2 Corinthians 12:9-10 How God Uses Suffering-2
- 2 Corinthians 12:11-12 The Signs of an Apostle, Part 1
- 2 Corinthians 12:12 Signs of an Apostle, Part 2
- 2 Corinthians 12:12 Six Arguments Against Modern-Day Apostleship
- 2 Corinthians 12:12-16 Concerns of a True Pastor: Humility & Selflessness
- 2 Corinthians 12:16-19 Concerns of a True Pastor: Integrity, Reverence, Sanctification
- 2 Corinthians 12:20-21 The Pattern of Sanctification: Repentance
Questions and Answers - John MacArthur
JOHN MACDUFF
ALEXANDER MACLAREN
BRYAN MACPHAIL
J VERNON MCGEE 2 Corinthians Commentary - Zip File of Audios - complete book
F B MEYER - brief comments.
- 2 Corinthians 12
- 2 Corinthians 12:9 Glorifying in our Infirmities
- 2 Corinthians 12:10 Our Daily Homily
HEINRICH MEYER Critical and Exegetical Commentary on the New Testament
J R MILLER
MONERGISM
G CAMPBELL MORGAN COMMENTARY
D Edmond Hiebert (these are actually comments on Morgan's related work - see the online Pdf copy = "The Corinthian Letters of Paul. An Exposition of I and II Corinthians") - Carefully outlined pulpit expositions by a noted expository preacher. Reflects the fervent devotional approach of the preacher in dealing with the problems that plague the Church.
Commentary on 1-2 Corinthians
- The Corinthian Letters of Paul. An Exposition of I and II Corinthians - notes on 2 Corinthians are brief and begin on page 137 of the Pdf
Commentary by Chapter from Analyzed Bible - distinct from preceding commentary
Sermons on 2 Corinthians from the Westminster Pulpit collection: Click on this link and scroll down page to following sermons:
- 2 Corinthians 12:9. The All-Sufficient Grace.
ROBERT MORGAN SERMONS
HENRY MORRIS Defender's Study Bible - Excellent, conservative, literal study Bible notes from a leading creationist commentator.
- 2 Corinthians 12:2 above fourteen years ago in the body third heaven
- 2 Corinthians 12:4 paradise unspeakable words
- 2 Corinthians 12:7 thorn in the flesh messenger
- 2 Corinthians 12:8 besought the Lord thrice
- 2 Corinthians 12:9 glory in my infirmities
- 2 Corinthians 12:20 swellings
NET BIBLE NOTES 2 Corinthians
PHIL NEWTON
- 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 Ministry of Thorn
- 2 Corinthians 12:11-21 Clearing the Debris in Corinth, Part 1
- 2 Corinthians 12:11-21 Clearing the Debris in Corinth, Part 2
HERMANN OLSHAUSEN A Commentary on Paul's First and Second Epistles to the Corinthians.
Cyril Barber - First published in 1855. This highly esteemed exegetical and expository work enlivens the sacred page and enriches the spiritual life of the reader. "Pays careful attention to the theological exposition, entering into the marrow of religious ideas, and introducing the student to the spirit and inward unity of the divine revelation" (Philip Schaff). (Click here for links to First Corinthians comments).
J C PHILPOT - selected chapters and verses
A W PINK
MATT POSTIFF - SERMONS
- 2 Corinthians 12:1-6 (doc)
- 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 (doc)
- 2 Corinthians 12:11-18 (doc)
- 2 Corinthians 12:19-13:4 (doc)
OUR DAILY BREAD 2 CORINTHIANS DEVOTIONALS
- 2 Corinthians 12 - multiple devotionals
- 2 Corinthians 12:1-9
- 2 Corinthians 12:1-10
- 2 Corinthians 12:1-10
- 2 Corinthians 12:1-10
- 2 Corinthians 12:1-10
- 2 Corinthians 12:1-10
- 2 Corinthians 12:1-10
- 2 Corinthians 12:1-10
- 2 Corinthians 12:1-10
- 2 Corinthians 12:1-10
- 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
- 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
- 2 Corinthians 12:7-8
- 2 Corinthians 12:8
- 2 Corinthians 12:8
- 2 Corinthians 12:9
- 2 Corinthians 12:9
- 2 Corinthians 12:9
- 2 Corinthians 12:9
- 2 Corinthians 12:9
- 2 Corinthians 12:9
- 2 Corinthians 12:9
- 2 Corinthians 12:9
- 2 Corinthians 12:10
- 2 Corinthians 12:10
- 2 Corinthians 12:10
- 2 Corinthians 12:10
- 2 Corinthians 12:10
- 2 Corinthians 12:11-21
- 2 Corinthians 12:15
PASTOR LIFE 2 CORINTHIANS SERMONS
- 2 Corinthians 12 :1-10 The Ministry of the Thorn J. Mike Minnix
- 2 Corinthians 12 :7-10 Thorns and Grace Paul E. Brown
- 2 Corinthians 12 :9-10 The Blessings of Brokenness Jack M. Redfearn, Jr.
- 2 Corinthians 12 :9-10 Buffeted But Blessed Donnie L. Martin
PREACHER'S HOMILETICAL COMMENTARY
ARTHUR PEAKE - commentary
PETER PETT - commentary
JOHN PIPER SERMONS
- 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 Christ's Power Is Made Perfect in Weakness
- 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 Thankful for the Love of God! Why?
- 2 Corinthians 12:15 A Sermon on Tithing
ALFRED PLUMMER A Critical and Exegetical Commentary
D Edmond Hiebert - Greek text Important introduction and a very thorough treatment of the Greek text, bringing out its finer shades of meaning. Essential for the careful student of the original text.
MATTHEW POOLE Commentary
WIL POUNDS
RICHARD PRATT SERMONS
RAY PRITCHARD SERMONS
Dr Pritchard's sermons are always worth checking out -- Scripturally sound and pithily practical!
PULPIT COMMENTARY
Hint: Click on expositions and scroll down for numerous additional homilies on individual passages.
REFORMATION STUDY BIBLE - Study notes
- 2 Cor 12:1–6
- 2 Cor 12:2
- 2 Cor 12:3
- 2 Cor 12:6
- 2 Cor 12:7
- 2 Cor 12:8
- 2 Cor 12:9
- 2 Cor 12:10
- 2 Cor 12:11
- 2 Cor 12:12
- 2 Cor 12:14
- 2 Cor 12:16
- 2 Cor 12:18
- 2 Cor 12:19
- 2 Cor 12:21
A. T. ROBERTSON Word Pictures - Greek word studies 2 Corinthians
RONALD RUSSELL
RAYMOND SAXE
- 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 (pdf)
PHILIP SCHAFF COMMENTARY
JOHN SCHULTZ - 62 page commentary in pdf - Link to his main page with commentaries on all 66 books
SERMON AUDIO - pdf transcripts - variable quality. Be a Berean.
SERMON BIBLE COMMENTARY
CHARLES SIMEON Sermons on 2 Corinthians
CHUCK SMITH 2 CORINTHIANS
Commentary
Sermon Notes:
JAMES SMITH - Handfuls on Purpose 2 CORINTHIANS
PHILIP SMITH - Easy English
C. H. SPURGEON All Spurgeon's Sermons on 2 Corinthians
- 2 Corinthians 12:7-9 Thorn in the Flesh
- 2 Corinthians 12:9 Strengthening Words from the Savior's Lips
- 2 Corinthians 12:9 A Wafer of Honey
- 2 Corinthians 12:10 A Paradox
- 2 Corinthians 12:11 A Sermon Upon One Nothing by Another Nothing
C H SPURGEON Expositional Notes on 2 Corinthians
C H SPURGEON Devotionals on 2 Corinthians
RAY STEDMAN Commentary Expository Studies on 2 Corinthians Power Out of Weakness
Cyril Barber - Fully in keeping with all we have come to expect of this gifted expositor and wise pastor. Explains this epistle in easy-to understand terms. (The Minister's Library - Volume 2)
RAY STEDMAN - 2 Corinthians Daily Devotionals
26: Strength In Weakness | 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 |
27: The Remarkable Paradox | 2 Corinthians 12:11-13 |
28: The Mark Of A True Servant | 2 Corinthians 12:14-13:4 |
SAM STORMS - sermons
JOHN SUTCLIFFE COMMENTARY
THEOLOGY OF WORK 2 CORINTHIANS
THIRD MILLENNIUM STUDY NOTES
- Kingdom Boasting of Heavenly Vision - 2 Corinthians 12:1-10
- I will go on to visions and revelations from the Lord - 2 Corinthians 12:1-6
- A thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan - 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
- Paul's Kingdom Care for the Corinthians - 2 Corinthians 12:11-21
- Signs, wonders and miracles - 2 Corinthians 12:11-13
- So I will very gladly spend for you everything - 2 Corinthians 12:14-18
- Everything we do, dear friends, is for your strengthening - 2 Corinthians 12:19-21
GEOFF THOMAS SERMONS
TODAY IN THE WORD DEVOTIONALS MOODY BIBLE INSTITUTE
JOHN TRAPP - commentary
BOB UTLEY
MARVIN VINCENT New Testament Word Studies
DANIEL WHEDON commentary
BRAD H YOUNG
STEVE ZEISLER SERMONS and other speakers from Peninsula Bible Church - for transcript click "Sermon Text)
01 Jul 2001 | The Spiritual Authority of Loving Care | 2 Corinthians 12:19-21, 13:1-4 | Goins, Doug | The Importance of Models |
24 Jun 2001 | Learning To Relate To Difficult People | 2 Corinthians 12:11-18 | Goins, Doug | The Importance of Models |
17 Jun 2001 | The Relationship Between Ecstacy, Authenticity and Pain | 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 | Goins, Doug | The Importance of Models |
10 Nov 1990 | An Apostolic Visit | 2 Corinthians 12:11-21, 13:1-14 | Zeisler, Steve | 2 Corinthians |
03 Nov 1990 | When I Am Weak, I Am Strong | 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 | Zeisler, Steve | 2 Corinthians |
24 Mar 1980 | The Signs of an Apostle | 2 Corinthians 12:11-21, 13:1-4 | Stedman, Ray | Studies in Second Corinthians |
22 Mar 1980 | Keep it Simple | 2 Corinthians 11:1-15 | Stedman, Ray | Studies in Second Corinthians |
17 Mar 1980 | The Ecstasy and the Agony | 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 | Stedman, Ray | Studies in Second Corinthians |
SERMONS BY VERSE - older expositors