Prev2 Corinthians 10:2Next

2 Corinthians 10

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:

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.

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:

(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)

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;

And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.

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.

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:

That I may not seem as if I would terrify you by letters.

For his letters, say they, are weighty and powerful; but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible.

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.

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.

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.

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:

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,

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.

But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.

For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.

What does 2 Corinthians 10:2 mean?

Explanation

2 Corinthians 10:2 speaks to the Apostle Paul's intention to confront certain individuals in the Corinthian church who accused him of worldly motives and conduct.

He expresses a desire not to appear overly bold or harsh when he visits them in person, hoping that this would not be necessary if they recognize his authority and reverence his message.

Paul distinguishes between his expectations to be bold in confronting his opponents and his wish for reconciliation.

The deeper meaning revolves around the spiritual integrity and authenticity of Paul's ministry, as opposed to conducting oneself according to 'the flesh’, which implies a worldly, superficial, or unspiritual approach.

Top Rated 2 Corinthians Books

Historical Context

The city of Corinth was a cosmopolitan hub in ancient Greece, known for its diversity and cultural richness.

When Paul writes 2 Corinthians, he is addressing a Christian community that he established on one of his missionary journeys.

By the time of his writing, there were individuals in the community who challenged Paul's authority and methods, possibly influenced by other charismatic leaders of the time.

This contention within the community prompted Paul to defend his approach to apostleship, specifically highlighting that his methods were not grounded in worldly wisdom or human strength, but in divine power and authority.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse showcases Paul's understanding of spiritual leadership.

He differentiates between human ways ('walking according to the flesh') and divine commission.

His boldness is not from self-assurance but a manifestation of the authority given to him by Christ.

This raises theological discussions on the nature of apostolic authority and integrity in ministry, as well as the conflict between spiritual and worldly methods of leadership and conflict resolution within the church.

Practical Applications

The practical applications of this verse can be manifold.

For believers, it encourages self-reflection regarding motivations and methods.

Are actions and confrontations derived from self-interest or from a spiritual calling? Additionally, the verse can be applied in conflict resolution, suggesting that one should aim for peace and reconciliation, resorting to boldness only when absolutely necessary and always grounded in spiritual conviction rather than personal pride or power.

Cross-References

1 Corinthians 1:17 - "For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect."
1 Corinthians 2:4 - "And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power."
2 Corinthians 10:3-4 - "For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)"

Language Study

The key phrase in the original Greek is "περιπατοῦντας κατὰ σάρκα" (peripatountas kata sarka), which translates to "walking according to the flesh".

The term "σάρκα" (sarka), meaning "flesh", is often used by Paul to describe a life that is oriented away from God and influenced by sin.

The word "περιπατοῦντας" (peripatountas) can be translated as "walking" or "living", signifying the conduct of life.

The term "θαρροῦντι" (tharrounti) implies confidence or boldness, sometimes boasting, which Paul aspired to avoid using wrongly.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In Greco-Roman culture, orators and leaders often displayed boldness (θάρσος, tharsos) in their public speaking to persuade and impress their audience. Paul's approach differs as his boldness is meant to serve Christ rather than personal acclaim.

Furthermore, Jewish religious tradition valued humility and cautioned against fleshly or worldly behavior. This contrast between worldly wisdom and divine wisdom is also reflected in various religious and philosophical writings of the time.

Scientific Perspectives

While this verse does not directly intersect with scientific concepts, it can inform a scientific discussion about human behavior, particularly regarding the influence of external motivations versus intrinsic values.

In modern psychological understanding, the conflict between self-interest and altruistic action mirrors Paul's distinction between 'walking in the flesh' and 'walking in the Spirit'.

Commentaries

Contemporary biblical scholars suggest that Paul, in 2 Corinthians 10:2, is setting up a stark contrast between perceived weakness and the remarkable spiritual power at his disposal.

Some commentaries emphasize that Paul is addressing accusations against his character, showing that his conduct aligns with his message, which is based on divine authority rather than human inclination.

Experts note that this is part of Paul’s larger discussion on his apostolic struggle and his defense against those in Corinth who questioned his legitimacy as an apostle.

2 Corinthians 10

2 Corinthians 10

What does 2 Corinthians 10:2 mean?

Explanation

Top Rated 2 Corinthians Books

Historical Context

Theological Insights

Practical Applications

Cross-References

Language Study

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Scientific Perspectives

Commentaries

Want more context?

What does 2 Corinthians 10:2 mean?

Explanation

Top Rated 2 Corinthians Books

Historical Context

Theological Insights

Practical Applications

Cross-References

Language Study

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Scientific Perspectives

Commentaries

Want more context?