Ernest Best reminds us in his introduction to his Second Corinthians commentary volume that letters are one of the easiest ways of unintentionally concealing information. The writer and the intended readers share knowledge about what is going on that outsiders do not posess. This is even more true for a letter that deals with the inner problems of a group of people; the members know the situation and do not need it recalled. We, as third-party readers of Second Corinthians, cannot expect to understand all that Paul writes there. But we can see enough to gain insight into the way pastoral responsibilities should be excercised, and how Christian communities should behave.

Interpretation: A Bible Commentary for Teaching and Preaching is a distinctive resource for those who interpret the Bible in the church. Planned and written specifically for teaching and preaching needs, this critically acclaimed biblical commentary is a major contribution to scholarship and ministry.

Ernest Best (1917-2004) was Professor of Divinity and Biblical Criticism at the University of Glasgow in Scotland.