1 Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence [am] base among you, but being absent am bold toward you:
2 But I beseech [you], that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh.
3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:
4 (For the weapons of our warfare [are] not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)
5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;
6 And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.
7 Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? If any man trust to himself that he is Christ’s, let him of himself think this again, that, as he [is] Christ’s, even so [are] we Christ’s.
8 For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed:
9 That I may not seem as if I would terrify you by letters.
10 For [his] letters, say they, [are] weighty and powerful; but [his] bodily presence [is] weak, and [his] speech contemptible.
11 Let such an one think this, that, such as we are in word by letters when we are absent, such [will we be] also in deed when we are present.
12 For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.
13 But we will not boast of things without [our] measure, but according to the measure of the rule which God hath distributed to us, a measure to reach even unto you.
14 For we stretch not ourselves beyond [our measure], as though we reached not unto you: for we are come as far as to you also in [preaching] the gospel of Christ:
15 Not boasting of things without [our] measure, [that is], of other men’s labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly,
16 To preach the gospel in the [regions] beyond you, [and] not to boast in another man’s line of things made ready to our hand.
17 But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.
18 For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.
Overview of 2 Corinthians Chapter 10
2 Corinthians Chapter 10 is a pivotal section in Paul’s second letter to the Corinthians, where he addresses issues of authority, spiritual warfare, and the nature of true apostleship. This chapter serves as a defense of his ministry against accusations and challenges from false apostles and critics within the Corinthian church.
Key Themes
- Apostolic Authority: Paul asserts his authority as an apostle and defends his ministry against those who question it.
- Spiritual Warfare: The chapter emphasizes the nature of spiritual battles and the weapons used in them.
- Humility and Boldness: Paul contrasts his humble demeanor with the boldness of his critics.
- Self-Evaluation: The importance of self-assessment and not comparing oneself with others is highlighted.
Verse-by-Verse Analysis
- Verses 1-2: Paul begins by appealing to the Corinthians with humility and gentleness, characteristics of Christ. He expresses concern over the accusations against him and the need to confront these issues.
- Verses 3-5: Paul acknowledges that while he lives in the flesh, his warfare is not of the flesh. He emphasizes that the weapons of his warfare are not carnal but spiritual, capable of demolishing strongholds and arguments against the knowledge of God.
- Verse 6: Paul indicates readiness to punish disobedience once the Corinthians exhibit obedience, highlighting the reciprocal nature of authority and accountability.
- Verses 7-9: He urges the Corinthians to look beyond outward appearances and to recognize the true nature of his ministry. Paul defends his actions and the integrity of his character against the superficial judgments of his critics.
- Verses 10-11: Paul addresses the criticisms regarding his physical presence and speech, which some deemed unimpressive. He asserts that his authority should not be measured by outward appearances but by the effectiveness of his ministry.
- Verses 12-14: He critiques those who compare themselves to one another, emphasizing that such comparisons are foolish. Paul asserts that he has a legitimate sphere of influence that extends to the Corinthians.
- Verses 15-16: Paul expresses his desire to expand his ministry further, indicating that he aims to preach the gospel in areas where Christ has not been named, rather than boasting in the work of others.
- Verses 17-18: The chapter concludes with a reminder that boasting should be in the Lord, not in oneself. Paul emphasizes that true commendation comes from God, not from human approval.
Theological Implications
This chapter illustrates several important theological concepts:
- The Nature of Authority: Paul’s defense of his apostolic authority highlights the importance of recognizing God-given authority in the church.
- Spiritual Warfare: The discussion of spiritual warfare indicates that Christians are engaged in a battle that requires spiritual discernment and reliance on God’s power.
- Identity in Christ: The emphasis on boasting in the Lord reinforces the idea that a believer’s identity and worth are found in Christ, not in personal achievements or comparisons.
Conclusion
In 2 Corinthians Chapter 10, Paul effectively defends his ministry while addressing the challenges posed by false apostles and critics. His emphasis on spiritual warfare, the nature of true authority, and the importance of humility provides valuable insights for the church today. The chapter serves as a reminder of the need for discernment, the power of God in ministry, and the importance of finding one’s identity in Christ.
