02 Why Paul Didn’t Visit Corinth and What That Means for Us (2 Corinthians 1:1-2:4)

Paul’s relationship with the Corinthian church was anything but simple, and in this passage we begin to see just how much history and heartache stand behind 2 Corinthians. 

In this episode, we walk through 2 Corinthians 1:12–2:4, tracing Paul’s “painful visit,” his “severe letter,” and his change of travel plans and showing how all of it fits with his claim to be a faithful apostle whose message and motives are anchored in God’s unshakable “Yes” in Christ.

In this week’s episode, we explore:

• The timeline of Paul’s relationship with the Corinthians, including the “lost” letters, the painful visit, and the severe letter
• Why some in Corinth questioned Paul’s integrity and accused him of being changeable, insincere, or unreliable
• How Paul defends his conduct by appealing to a clear conscience, simple sincerity, and God’s grace rather than human cleverness
• What Paul means when he says that God’s promises are all “Yes” in Jesus Christ—and how that supports his ministry
• How the gift of the Holy Spirit functions as God’s seal and guarantee that believers truly belong to Him
• Why Paul chose not to visit them again when he said he would, and how that decision was meant to spare them, not abandon them
• The difference between “lording it over” someone’s faith and working with them for their joy in Christ

After listening, you’ll come away with a clearer grasp of the backstory behind 2 Corinthians and a deeper confidence in God’s steady faithfulness, even when relationships with Christian leaders are strained or confusing. You’ll see how Paul ties everything—his plans, his tears, his letters—back to God’s trustworthy promises in Christ, and you’ll be encouraged to rest your hope not in human reliability, but in the God who has sealed you with His Spirit and is committed to your lasting joy.

2 Corinthians: When Church Hurts

Start Strong: A New Believer’s Guide to Christianity launches January 9. Pre-order your copy now or buy it on launch day. Visit StartStrongBook.org for more details.  

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