outline of 2 Corinthians

1.  Salutation (1:1, 2)

2.  An Explanation of Paul's Ministry (1:3-7:16)

1. Thanksgiving for God's Comfort (1:3-11)
2. Paul's Change of Plans Explained (1:12-2:4)
3. Paul's Forgiveness of a Penitent Sinner (2:5-11)
4. Paul's Journey to Troas and Macedonia (2:12, 13)
5. Excellence of Gospel Ministry (2:14-7:4)

   1.  A Triumphal Procession and Fragrant Aroma (2:14-17)
   2.  A Living Letter of Recommendation (3:1-3)
   3.  A New Covenant of Unfading Glory (3:4-4:6)
   4.  A Glorious Ministry Carried in Earthen Vessels (4:7-5:10)
   5.  A Ministry of Reconciliation (5:11-6:13)
   6.  A Plea for Separation from Evil (6:14-7:4)

6. Paul's Joy of the Coming of Titus (7:5-16)

3.  The Collection for Christians In Jerusalem (chs. 8; 9)

1. The Example of Macedonia (8:1-7)
2. The Example of Jesus (8:8, 9)
3. A Reasonable and Fair Plea for Giving (8:10-9:15)

4.  Defense Against the False Apostles (10:1-13:10)

1. Paul's True Spiritual Power (10:1-12)
2. Paul's "Boasting" (10:13-12:21)

   1.  Definition of Proper Boasting (10:13-11:21)
   2.  Boasting of Suffering and Weakness (11:22-33)
   3.  Boasting of a Vision of Heaven (12:1-10)
   4.  Paul's Care for the Corinthians (12:11-21)

3. Warning:  Paul Will Come with the Lord's Power (13:1-10)

5.  Final Greetings and Benediction (13:11-14)