2 Corinthians 11: Group Study Handout

How to use: read 2 Corinthians 11 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

Paul expresses his concern for the Corinthians, stating he feels a godly jealousy as he wishes to present them as pure to Christ (vv. 1-2). He fears they may be deceived like Eve was, turning away from the simplicity in Christ (vv.

Key verse

“And no wonder, for even Satan masquerades as an angel of light.”
2 Corinthians 11:14 (WEB)

Outline

2 Corinthians 11:1–4 Paul's Concern for the Corinthians
2 Corinthians 11:5–9 Defense of His Apostolic Authority
2 Corinthians 11:10–15 Warning Against False Apostles
2 Corinthians 11:16–21 Paul's Boasting in Weakness
2 Corinthians 11:22–29 List of Paul's Hardships
2 Corinthians 11:30–33 Escape from Danger

Discussion questions

In v6, how does Paul describe his speaking ability when he says he is 'unskilled'?
In v12, what does Paul mean when he says he will 'cut off occasion' from his opponents?
Paul's comparison to the serpent's deception in v3: how does this relate to the Corinthians' faith?
In v23, what does Paul mean when he claims to be 'more' than the servants of Christ he mentions?
When have you faced someone trying to lead you away from the 'simplicity' of faith as Paul warns in v3?

Go deeper

Passages that echo 2 Corinthians 11: Galatians 1, Genesis 3, 2 Corinthians 12.

Before next time: read 2 Corinthians 12.