2 Corinthians 1:1 – “Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the church of God in Corinth, together with all his holy people throughout Achaia:”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

Paul begins his second letter to the Corinthians by affirming his role as an apostle—not by his own ambition, but by the will of God. This sets the foundation for his authority to speak on behalf of Christ. He includes Timothy, his close co-worker in ministry, showing that Paul did not serve alone but worked alongside other faithful believers.

The recipients of this letter are “the church of God in Corinth,” but Paul broadens the audience to include “all his holy people throughout Achaia,” meaning the surrounding region. This reminds us that God’s message is not limited to one group but extends to all who belong to Him.

Historical Context

The city of Corinth was a major trade center in ancient Greece, known for its wealth, immorality, and diverse population. Paul had founded the church there during his second missionary journey (Acts 18:1-11). The believers in Corinth struggled with divisions, immorality, and false teachings, prompting Paul to write multiple letters to correct and encourage them.

This second letter was written around A.D. 55-57, likely from Macedonia, after Paul had received reports of how the Corinthians responded to his first letter. It was a time of suffering for Paul, and much of this letter expresses his hardships, comfort in Christ, and defense of his apostleship.

Theological Implications

1. God’s Sovereignty in Calling – Paul did not choose to be an apostle; God chose him (Galatians 1:1, 15-16). This reminds us that God calls people to His service according to His purpose, not human qualifications.
2. The Church Belongs to God – Paul does not say “my church” or “your church” but “the church of God.” The church is not an institution owned by people, but a people belonging to God (1 Corinthians 1:2).
3. Holiness is for All Believers – Paul refers to Christians as “holy people,” meaning those set apart for God. Holiness is not for a select few but for all who follow Christ (1 Peter 2:9).

Literary Analysis

Paul follows a common ancient letter structure: he introduces himself, states his authority, mentions his co-worker, and greets the recipients. However, unlike secular letters, Paul’s greeting is filled with theological depth. His emphasis on being an apostle “by the will of God” is not mere formality; it highlights divine purpose.

By addressing not just Corinth but all believers in Achaia, Paul shows that this letter holds relevance beyond one city. It speaks to a wider audience, much like God’s Word today still speaks to all believers.

Biblical Cross-References

• Acts 18:1-11 – Paul’s first visit to Corinth and the founding of the church.
• 1 Corinthians 1:1-2 – A similar greeting emphasizing Paul’s calling and the church’s holiness.
• Galatians 1:1 – Paul’s apostleship is from God, not men.
• 1 Peter 2:9 – All believers are chosen and set apart for God’s purposes.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse reminds us that:

• Our spiritual calling comes from God, not human effort.
• The church belongs to God, and we should treat it with reverence.
• Every believer is called to holiness, not just pastors or leaders.
• We are part of a larger body of believers beyond our local church.

This is a call to recognize God’s authority, embrace our identity as His people, and live according to His purpose.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is seen in how He personally calls His people. Paul was once an enemy of Christ, yet God chose him for a new purpose (Acts 9:1-16). This same love extends to all believers—God calls us, transforms us, and includes us in His family.

God’s love is also seen in His care for the church. He does not abandon His people but continues to speak to them through His Word, correcting and encouraging them as a loving Father (Hebrews 12:6).

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Paul’s apostleship is rooted in Jesus Christ. He was called to be an apostle by the will of God to preach Christ (Romans 1:1). Jesus is the one who builds the church (Matthew 16:18), and Paul’s mission was to make Him known.

Timothy, Paul’s co-worker, was also a disciple of Christ, showing how the mission of Jesus continues through His followers (2 Timothy 2:2). Every believer today is part of this same ongoing mission.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does it mean to be called by God, and how does that apply to your own life?
2. How can you live out your identity as one of God’s “holy people” in your daily walk?
3. Paul worked alongside Timothy—how does this encourage you to partner with others in ministry?
4. How does knowing that the church belongs to God impact the way you view and serve in it?
5. What does this verse teach you about God’s love and His purpose for you?

This verse is a small but powerful reminder that our identity, mission, and purpose come from God. It’s not about our plans—it’s about His.