Day 54: 2 Corinthians 11-13

Paul and the False Apostles - 2 Corinthians 11:1-15

Understand It

• Why was Paul sarcastic about the "super-apostles"? (11:5)
• How did Paul make sure he was not a burden on the Corinthians? (11:7-9)
• How did Paul’s behavior contrast with that of his opponents? (11:12)

Apply It

• What is one step you can take this week to guard against the deceit of false prophets and evil pressures?

Paul Boasts About His Sufferings - 2 Corinthians 11:16-33

Understand It

• What qualifications did Paul have to justify his boasting? (11:22-28)
• Why did Paul boast about his hardships? (11:24-26)
• How did Paul qualify his boasting? (11:30)

Apply It

• What boasts can you have handy for the next time you need to defend your credibility as a representative of Christ’s message?

Paul's Vision and His Thorn - 2 Corinthians 12:1-10

Understand It

• Why did Paul refrain from boasting? (12:6)
• What was Paul’s response to his "thorn"? (12:8, 10)
• What purpose can suffering serve? (12:9)

Apply It

• What weakness can you turn over to the Lord through prayer this week?

Paul's Concern for the Corinthians - 2 Corinthians 12:11-21

Understand It

• To what did Paul liken his relationship with the Corinthians? (12:14)
• How do we know that Paul had a deep affection for the Corinthians? (12:15-18)
• What prompted Paul to write this letter? (12:20-21)

Apply It

• In the future, how can you follow Paul’s example in healing divisions between Christians?

Final Warnings - 2 Corinthians 13:1-14

Understand It

• Why did Paul advise the Corinthians to examine themselves? (13:5)
• What does this passage reveal about Paul’s concern for the Corinthians’ spiritual welfare and regard for his own reputation? (13:7)
• Why did Paul write to the church at Corinth? (13:10)

Apply It

• In what way would it be helpful for you to test your faith? How could you?

Tomorrow: Galatians 1-3