While the Biblical book, II Corinthians does follow I Corinthians in canonical order, most scholars believe it is a compilation of at least two letters. Within this book Paul writes to the same community of believers in Corinth yet addresses different concerns. These concerns, as the New Oxford Annotated Bible (NRSV) outlines include problems created by a particular offender that are addressed in the first section and the second speaks to ‘false apostles’ that are stirring up new troubles. There are also more details regarding the challenges Paul has faced in his missionary work. Through the writings of these letters, Paul is able to further build his theological understanding of what it means to be a Chirstian within II Corinthians as his ‘participation in the reconciling suffering, death and rising of Christ.” One to be emulated by fellow believers within their own lives as well.
II Corinthians 5:17-6:1
17So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new! 18All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation; 19that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us. 20So we are ambassadors for Christ, since God is making his appeal through us; we entreat you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 21For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. 6:1As we work together with him, we urge you also not to accept the grace of God in vain.”
Prayer
Christ Jesus, I rejoice in your reconciling work. May I be washed clean with your life giving waters. Fountain of life, may my life be lived in gratitude and praise now and always. Amen.