The Second Epistle to the Corinthians

Mid-levelBusy pastors, General readers, Pastors-in-trainingStrong recommendation
Last updated: December 20, 2025
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Evaluation

Overall Score: 8.7/10

A thoughtful and pastorally weighty evangelical exposition of 2 Corinthians that continues to serve the church well.

Publication Date(s): 1962
Pages: 480
ISBN: 9780802822669
Faithfulness to the Text: 9/10
We find careful attention to Paul’s language, argument, and historical situation throughout the commentary.
Christ Centredness: 9/10
We see the pattern of Christ’s suffering and triumph shaping Hughes’s understanding of ministry and reconciliation.
Depth of Insight: 8.5/10
We gain substantial theological and pastoral insight, expressed with clarity and restraint.
Clarity of Writing: 8.5/10
We find the prose clear and thoughtful, though occasionally dense due to the subject matter.
Pastoral Usefulness: 8.5/10
We find it especially helpful for preaching on ministry, suffering, and reconciliation.
Readability: 8.5/10
We find it accessible for sustained reading and regular consultation.

Summary

At a Glance

Length
480 pages
Type
Expository (Mid-Level)
Theo. Perspective
Broadly Evangelical
Overall score
8.7 / 10
Strength
Strong integration of exegesis, theology, and pastoral concern.
Limitation
Limited interaction with more recent scholarly discussions.

We find The Second Letter To Corinthians by Philip Edgcumbe Hughes to be a serious and spiritually alert exposition of one of Paul’s most personal and demanding letters. Hughes approaches 2 Corinthians with close attention to the flow of argument and the emotional texture of the text, reading it as sustained apostolic defence bound up with pastoral vulnerability and gospel ministry.

We appreciate the way Hughes traces the letter’s themes of weakness, suffering, reconciliation, and apostolic authority. He treats Paul’s defence of his ministry not as self interest, but as a necessary protection of the gospel itself. Throughout, the exposition keeps the cross shaped nature of Christian service firmly in view.

Why Should I Own This Commentary?

We should own this commentary because it combines exegetical care with theological seriousness. Hughes works carefully with the Greek text and historical setting, yet he never loses sight of the pastoral stakes involved. Difficult passages are handled with restraint and conviction.

We also value the clarity of Hughes’s theological instincts. He consistently shows how Paul’s understanding of ministry flows from Christ’s saving work and from the pattern of death and resurrection. This makes the commentary especially helpful for those teaching on suffering, perseverance, and gospel integrity.

The volume reflects the strengths of its generation. It is less expansive in engaging later scholarly debates, but it remains focused, reverent, and dependable.

Closing Recommendation

We commend this commentary as a theologically rich and pastorally serious exposition of 2 Corinthians. It remains a valuable resource for careful study and faithful proclamation.

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Classification

  • Level: Mid-level
  • Best For: Busy pastors, General readers, Pastors-in-training
  • Priority: Strong recommendation

Reviewed by

An Expositor