What does 2 Corinthians 11:28 mean?

Explanation

The verse in question is 2 Corinthians 11:28 from the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible:

"Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches."

Here, the Apostle Paul is expressing the immense burden he carries on a daily basis, which includes the concerns and problems faced by the early Christian churches that he was instrumental in founding and nurturing.

The phrase "those things that are without" refers to external troubles, possibly alluding to the persecutions, hardships, and dangers he faced as he preached the gospel (as detailed in 2 Corinthians 11:23-27).

In contrast, the latter part of the verse brings attention to his internal burden, the daily "care of all the churches," which means his constant worry and responsibility for the well-being and spiritual health of the Christian communities.

Historical Context

This verse is part of the larger context of Paul's second letter to the Corinthians in which he defends his apostleship and addresses false teachers who were influencing the church in Corinth.

Paul wrote this letter around A.D. 55-57.

The early church at the time was grappling with its identity, doctrinal integrity, and the pressures of living in a world that was often hostile to its beliefs.

Paul's reference to his sufferings and his daily concern for the churches is meant to demonstrate his genuine commitment and contrast his motives with those of the false teachers.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse illustrates the concept of pastoral care and leadership burden. Paul, as an apostle, saw himself as a spiritual father to the churches (1 Corinthians 4:15) and he felt a personal responsibility for their spiritual welfare.

This verse is often used to discuss the nature of spiritual leadership and the selfless concern that leaders should have for their communities.

Some theological perspectives might focus on the sacrificial aspect of Paul's ministry, while others could emphasize the role of unity and collective support within the body of Christ.

Practical Applications

Practically, this verse can be applied in several ways.

First, it serves as a model for modern spiritual leaders, highlighting the importance of sincere concern for the well-being of their congregations.

It also suggests that Christian leadership is marked not only by teaching and preaching but by a deep, personal investment in the lives of individuals within the community.

Furthermore, for individuals, it encourages members of a church to be mindful of the burdens their leaders carry and to support them in their responsibilities.

Cross-References

• 1 Corinthians 4:15: "For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel."
• Galatians 6:2: "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ."
• Acts 20:28: "Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood."

Language Study

In the original Greek, the key phrase "the care of all the churches" uses the word "μέριμνα" (merimna), which can be translated as care, concern, or anxiety. It conveys a sense of weighty consideration and emotional investment.

The term “κατὰ ἡμέραν” (kata hēmeran) translated as "daily" emphasizes the continuous and daily recurring nature of Paul's care for the churches.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In other ancient cultures, religious leaders often served as mediators between the gods and the people, shouldering the community's spiritual burdens.

In Ancient Egypt, for instance, priests played an essential role in maintaining the favor of the gods.

In comparison to these cultural practices, Paul's care for the churches was less about ritual mediation and more about the relational and ethical guidance in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Scientific Perspectives

The verse itself does not directly intersect with modern scientific understandings in a material sense.

However, from a psychological standpoint, the concept of carrying daily burdens and the stress that comes with leadership responsibilities can lead to burnout, a well-documented psychological state.

The verse acknowledges the challenging emotional and mental aspects of being a leader responsible for the welfare of others.

Commentaries

Various Bible commentaries highlight Paul's heartfelt concern for the churches.

For instance, the Matthew Henry Commentary emphasizes Paul's deep attachment to the church's welfare, seeing it as an indication of his love and pastoral duty.

The Expositor's Bible Commentary discusses the counterpoint between Paul's external sufferings and his internal concerns, suggesting that while his external trials were sporadic, his internal burden for the churches was incessant.

John Gill's Exposition of the Bible also discusses the weight of spiritual care that Paul bore, seeing it as demonstrative of his true apostleship in contrast to those who sought leadership for personal gain or prestige.