Saint Paul's First Letter to the Corinthians reads like a letter from a concerned parent who wishes to share wisdom-and a warning-with his or her children. For Paul has received some disturbing news about the people he knows well and loves. Therefore, this first letter reflects Paul's own suffering as well as his desire to have the Corinthians change their ways.

As Paul continues his Second Letter to the Corinthians, his words express many different emotions. One might even break the letter down into sections that give an image of Paul as a man who is angry, compassionate,...