New Testament Paper

BIBLICAL THEOLOGY PAPER – BIBLICAL PASSAGE ANALYSIS

Biblical Text__2 Corinthians 1:3-5__

By ____Jenalle Beaman_____

Thesis statement (once completed):

Because of Christ’s sufferings, we can find “comfort” in our troubles.

I. OBSERVATION SECTION

A. Basic Questions

Who: Author – Paul

Main Characters – God

Original Audience – Corinthians

Paul is writing this letter to the people of the Corinth church. Problems were occurring within the church at this time due to an immature understanding of true spirituality.

What: 2 Corinthians 1:3-5 is of high importance due to the fact that it was written immediately after the opening of the letter. This epistle speaks of God and the “comfort” he has provided from his “sufferings”.

When: 2 Corinthians was written during Paul’s third missionary journey around 56 AD.

Where: Paul wrote this second letter in Macedonia.

Why: Paul is writing to the Corinthians, insisting they remain loyal to Christ, to Paul himself and his gospel, as well as to God’s promise to deliver for the church in Jerusalem. His relationship with the Corinthians has deteriorated, and is hoping to restore the relationship he had with the churches he founded. He wants to defend his honor as a trustworthy and knowledgeable servant of Christ.

B. Words and Sentences

Type of sentences: 2 Corinthians 1:3-5 contains all indicative statements.

Repeated (or significant) words, phrases, ideas, and a brief word study:

The word “comfort” is repeated five times in this passage. The Greek word, παράκλησις, can be translated to paraklēsis meaning “a calling near”. The repetition of this word emphasizes how much relief can truly be found through Christ.

Comparisons: none.

Contrasts: none.

Lists: none.

Cause and Effect:

Cause: God “comforts us in all our troubles” (2 Corinthians 1:4)

Effect: “so that we can comfort those in any trouble” (2 Corinthians 1:4)

Symbolism / Figures of Speech: 2...