An Exegetical Study of 2 Corinthians 1:1-7

Here's the paper I wrote this semester for Greek Syntax & Exegesis on 2 Corinthians 1:1-7. The introduction:

The Apostle Paul’s relationship with the Corinthian church was a stormy and difficult one. He apparently had many hostile critics in Corinth, but in spite of this he cared deeply for the believers there and felt a fatherly responsibility for them. Out of this care and sense of responsibility he penned 2 Corinthians, knowing very well that in so doing he stood to incur yet more criticism from his opponents. Aware that the Corinthians could potentially be turned against him by his opponents, Paul opens his epistle with a blessing to God that also serves to underline the closeness of his relationship with them and his ongoing commitment to their spiritual good. With this context as a backdrop, the thesis of 2 Corinthians 1:1-7 is that God is to be praised for the way he brings consolation to his children – Paul and his companions are consoled by God in the affliction which befalls them because of their identification with Jesus Christ, and in turn their example brings consolation to the Corinthians in whatever afflictions they might endure.