2 Corinthians 10: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 2 Corinthians 10 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Paul appeals to the Corinthians in the spirit of humility and gentleness (vv. 1-2). He wishes to avoid showing boldness in person against those who accuse him of walking according to the flesh.

Key verse

“for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but mighty before God to the throwing down of strongholds,”
2 Corinthians 10:4 (WEB)

Outline

2 Corinthians 10:1–2 Paul's Appeal to Humility and Gentleness
2 Corinthians 10:3–6 Spiritual Warfare and God's Power
2 Corinthians 10:7–11 Judging by Spiritual Standards
2 Corinthians 10:12–15 Proper Limits of Apostolic Authority
2 Corinthians 10:16–18 The Source of Commendation

Discussion questions

In v1, how does Paul describe his approach when addressing the Corinthians?
What does Paul say about the weapons of our warfare in v4?
Paul discusses boasting in v17: what is the context for this statement and its implications?
In v12, why does Paul say that those who compare themselves with themselves are 'without understanding'?
When have you relied on 'human standards' rather than God's authority in a situation?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 2 Corinthians 10: Ephesians 6, Zechariah 4, 1 Corinthians 1.

Before next time: read 2 Corinthians 11.