ESV Reformation Study Bible – 2 Cor 1:1
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2 Cor 1:1

1:1 apostle. Paul describes himself as “apostle,” but not his associate (also 1 Cor. 1:1; Col. 1:1). An apostle was an eyewitness of the Resurrection (Acts 1:22; 1 Cor. 15:8) who had been personally appointed by Christ (Matt. 10:1–7; Acts 1:24–26; Gal. 1:1) to govern the early church (1 Thess. 4:8; 2 Thess. 3:6, 14), and to teach or write with authority (1 Cor. 14:37; 1 Thess. 2:13; 4:15; 2 Pet. 3:15, 16). The term is used as a title of the twelve disciples and Paul. It is also used in a broader sense (Rom. 16:7), while in general or nontechnical use it means a “messenger” or “representative” (8:23; Phil. 2:25).

by the will of God. It is God’s sovereign choice that ultimately places people in church offices and ministries. The apostolic office was extraordinary and temporary, and did not continue when there were no surviving eyewitnesses of the Resurrection, and when the canon of Scripture was complete. The ordinary offices continue to be necessary, and are filled by elders (Acts 20:28) and others whose gifts equip them for ministries (1 Cor. 12:7, 11, 28). Calls to the ordinary offices are confirmed by the people of God as the church discerns who has received the gifts and qualifications for the work (Eph. 4:11).

saints. A term commonly used by Paul to refer to all Christians (Rom. 15:25; Phil. 1:1).

in the whole of Achaia. Though the letter was intended primarily for the church at Corinth, Paul apparently realized that it would be read by neighboring churches in the region of Achaia, the southern part of modern Greece. On Corinth, see Acts 18:1 note.