The resonances in the dialogue of Paul's Second Letter to the Corinthians are difficult to detect unless the reader has some knowledge of the social, religious, and economic situation of the community to which the apostle was writing. In this lucid and clear survey, Father Murphy-O'Connor attempts to provide such background information, which he integrates skillfully into a flowing exposition of Paul's thought.

St. Paul's theology thus comes to life as the complex interplay of factors that prompted him to write as he did to the Corinthians are examined and explored. In addition to providing a particularly accessible picture of the distinctive theological contribution made by 2 Corinthians, the author's book prompts new insights into the relation of Christ to the ministry of the Church.

"They are very useful volumes produced in the best tradition of British scholarship: lucidly written and argued without any claims the text cannot bear....the collected volumes belong on every reference shelf."

Lawrence S. Cunningham, Commonweal

"Murphy-O'Connor's contribution to this series on II Corinthians is a model of clarity and good sense."

"Murphy-O'Connor has a well-deserved reputation as one of the leading interpreters of Paul's Corinthian correspondence....Murphy-O'Connor is often provoctaive, and this work is no exception. Many of his interpretations are persuasive....the volume is a welcome addition by an important scholar and is highly recommended...."