Example: Historical & Social Context for 2 Corinthians 4:7-15

The Corinthians apparently desired eloquence and power in their preacher (1 Cor 2:1-5). Such an expectation was widespread in Greco-Roman culture. Divine power was expected to be shown in powerful speaking. Furthermore, Corinth is a relatively new city, where social mobility was possible and people with the means to move up in society were attracted to marks of status. One sign of status in Roman society was being able to host (and perhaps financially support) an eloquent philosopher or orator. It is these standards (and such financial support) that Paul steadfastly refused in Corinth (1 Cor 1:18-2:16; 1 Cor 9; 2 Cor 10-13). Paul would not allow the gospel to be drawn according to the preference for the beautiful, the eloquent, or the socially promoting. It is perhaps ironic then that such a "clay pot" as Paul has composed such a well-balanced and rhetorically thoughtful piece as this.

Other preachers have come into town, presenting their credentials to the Corinthians (3:1) and boasting of their power (10:12-18). Paul's ministry is such that the
power comes from God (see "Comparison of translations" for vs 7). The point is
not simply making clear where the power comes from. There are two alternative
 demonstrations of power being offered to the Corinthian church, but Paul is
sure that only his is from God. The opponents draw simply on the power of this
age. For Paul, "clay jars" as the carrier for the gospel is necessary for the power
to be from God, since that power is the word of the cross.

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