The Missing Letter between 1 & 2 Corinthians
Bible Commentary on 2 Corinthians at Secureforever.org
Quentin Road Baptist Church
Listen to the entire series from Quentin Road Baptist Church at SermonAudio using the link below. Note there is a playlist available on the Church’s Youtube site. However, the playlist on Youtube is incomplete.
https://www.sermonaudio.com/series/64887
Introduction to 2 Corinthians
Second Corinthians is a deeply personal letter from the Apostle Paul to the church in Corinth, written during a period of significant trial and ministry challenge. Most scholars date the letter to around AD 56, likely composed while Paul was in Macedonia following his difficult interactions with the Corinthian believers (1 Corinthians). In this epistle, Paul addresses a congregation that had previously struggled with worldliness and division, and now faced issues of reconciliation, opposition to Paul’s apostolic authority, and the need for renewed commitment to godly living. The recipients are believers—those who have placed their faith in Christ and are part of the body of Christ in this present age.
Paul’s tone in this letter is marked by both pastoral affection and apostolic firmness. He opens his heart to the Corinthians, sharing his sufferings for the sake of the gospel and his dependence on God’s comfort and strength. At the same time, he defends his ministry against critics, emphasizing that his authority and message are from God, not from human commendation. Paul urges the church to complete their promised collection for the saints in Jerusalem, highlighting the importance of generosity and unity among believers.
A major theme of Second Corinthians is the distinction between the old covenant and the new covenant. Paul explains that the old covenant, given through Moses, was characterized by the law written on stone tablets, which brought condemnation and death because of humanity’s inability to keep it perfectly. Its glory was real but temporary, fading even as Moses descended from Sinai. In contrast, the new covenant established through Christ is marked by the Spirit’s work in the hearts of believers, offering lasting forgiveness, righteousness, and spiritual transformation. The new covenant brings freedom from the law’s bondage and enables believers to serve God with confidence and joy, so that their lives increasingly display the character and values of Christ.
Paul reminds the Corinthians that, as recipients of the new covenant, they are ambassadors for Christ, entrusted with the message of reconciliation. This new relationship with God is not based on external rituals or legal requirements, but on the inward work of the Holy Spirit, who empowers believers to live for God and share His grace with others. The surpassing glory of the new covenant motivates believers to endure suffering, engage in spiritual warfare, and hold fast to the eternal hope promised in Christ.
In summary, Second Corinthians provides valuable insight into the heart of pastoral ministry, the challenges of Christian leadership, and the calling of believers to live as new creations in Christ. Paul’s inspired words encourage the church to pursue holiness, embrace God’s grace, and remain steadfast in faith as they await the fulfillment of God’s promises. This epistle remains a vital resource for guiding the conduct and strengthening the faith of believers today.
The Missing Letter between 1 & 2 Corinthians
Paul’s “missing letter,” often called the “severe letter” or “tearful letter,” is referenced in 2 Corinthians 2:3–4 and 7:8–9. According to Paul’s own words, this letter was written in great distress and with many tears, reflecting his deep concern for the Corinthians and his urgent desire to correct serious problems within the church. The letter was intended to confront sin and call the believers to repentance, especially regarding an individual who had caused significant pain and division. While the text of this letter has not been preserved, Paul’s references in 2 Corinthians indicate it was emotionally intense and direct, motivated by love for the church and a longing for their restoration.
The impact of the “severe letter” was profound. In 2 Corinthians 7:8–9, Paul explains that although his words initially caused sorrow, they ultimately led the Corinthians to genuine repentance. The church responded to Paul’s admonition by addressing the issues he raised, which brought relief and joy to the apostle. This missing letter stands as evidence of Paul’s pastoral dedication and his willingness to confront difficult situations for the spiritual health of the congregation. While the exact contents remain unknown, its effect is clear: it moved the Corinthians toward reconciliation and obedience, preparing the way for the more comforting and affirming tone found in 2 Corinthians.