2 Corinthians 11 — King James Version

Verse 1

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

The apostle gives the reasons for speaking in his own commendation.

The apostle desired to preserve the Corinthians from being corrupted by the false apostles. There is but one Jesus, one Spirit, and one gospel, to be preached to them, and received by them; and why should any be prejudiced, by the devices of an adversary, against him who first taught them in faith? They should not listen to men, who, without cause, would draw them away from those who were the means of their conversion.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

I wish ye would bear - So does he pave the way for what might otherwise have given offence. With my folly - Of commending myself; which to many may appear folly; and really would be so, were it not on this occasion absolutely necessary.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

Would that ye did bear with me.As he saw that the ears of the Corinthians were still in part pre-engaged,he has recourse to another contrivance, for he turns to express a wish, as persons do when they do not venture openly to entreat.Immediately afterwards, however, as if gathering confidence, he nevertheless entreats the Corinthians to bear with his folly. He gives the name offollyto that splendid proclamation of his praises, which afterwards follows. Not as if he were a fool in glorying; for he was constrained to it by necessity, and besides, he restrained himself in such a manner, that no one could justly regard him as going beyond bounds; but as it is an unseemly thing to herald one’s own praises, and a thing that is foreign to the inclinations of a modest man, he speaks by way of concession.What I have rendered in the imperative — bear with me, Chrysostom interprets as an affirmation, and certainly the Greek word is ambiguous, and either sense suits sufficiently well. As, however, the reasons that the Apostle subjoins are designed to induce the Corinthians tobear with him, and as we will find him afterwards expostulating with them again on the ground of their not conceding anything to him, I have followed the Old Interpreter.By saying,Would that, etc., he had seemed to be distrustful;now, as if correcting that hesitation, he openly and freely commands.

McArther Bible Commentary

a little folly. Having just pointed out the folly of self-commendation (2Co 10:18), Paul certainly did not want to engage in it. But the Corinthians' acceptance of the false apostles' claims forced Paul to set forth his own apostolic credentials (cf. 2Co 12:11); that was the only way he could get them to see the truth (see note on 2Co 10:7). Unlike the false apostles, however, Paul's boasting was in the Lord (2Co 10:17) and motivated by concern for the Corinthians' well-being under the threat of false teaching (cf. 2Co 11:2; 2Co 12:19).

Bible Cross References

Matthew 17:17 2 Corinthians 5:13 2 Corinthians 11:4 2 Corinthians 11:16 2 Corinthians 11:17 2 Corinthians 11:21

Verse 2

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

The apostle gives the reasons for speaking in his own commendation.

The apostle desired to preserve the Corinthians from being corrupted by the false apostles. There is but one Jesus, one Spirit, and one gospel, to be preached to them, and received by them; and why should any be prejudiced, by the devices of an adversary, against him who first taught them in faith? They should not listen to men, who, without cause, would draw them away from those who were the means of their conversion.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

For - The cause of his seeming folly is expressed in this and the following verse; the cause why they should bear with him, (2 Corinthians 11:4) .

John Calvin Bible Commentary

For I am jealousMark why it is that he acts the fool, forjealousyhurries a man as it were headlong. “Do not demand that I should show the equable temperof a man that is at ease, and not excited by any emotion, for that vehemence of vehemence of jealousy, with which I am inflamed towards you, does not suffer me to be at ease.” As, however, there are two kinds of jealousy — the one springs from self love, and of a wicked and perverse nature, while the other is cherished by us on God’s account,he intimates of what sort his zeal is. For many are zealous — for themselves, not for God.Thaton the other hand, is the only pious and right zeal, that has an eye to God, that he may not be defrauded of the honors that of right belong to him.For I have united you to one man.That his zeal was of such a nature, he proves from the design of his preaching, for its tendency was to join them to Christ in marriage, and retain them in connection with him.Here, however, he gives us in his own person a lively picture of a good minister; for One alone is the Bridegroom of the Church — the Son of God. All ministers are thefriends of the Bridegroom, as the Baptist declares respecting himself. (John 3:29.) Hence all ought to be concerned, that the fidelity of this sacred marriage remain unimpaired and inviolable. This they cannot do, unless they are actuated by the dispositions of the Bridegroom, so that every one of them may be as much concerned for the purity of the Church, as a husband is for the chastity of his wife. Away then with coldness and indolence in this matter, for one that is coldwill never be qualified for this office. Let them, however, in the mean time, take care, not to pursue their own interest rather than that of Christ, that they may not intrude themselves into his place, lest while they give themselves out as hisparanymphs,they turn out to be in reality adulterers, by alluring the bride to love themselves.To present you as a chaste virgin.We are married to Christ, on no other condition than that we bring virginity as our dowry, and preserve it entire, so as to be free from all corruption. Hence it is the duty of ministers of the gospel to purify our souls, that they may bechaste virgins to Christ; otherwise they accomplish nothing. Now we may understand it as meaning, that they individually present themselves as chaste virgins to Christ,or that the minister presents the whole of the people, and brings them forward into Christ’s presence. I approve rather of the second interpretation. Hence I have given a different rendering from Erasmus.

McArther Bible Commentary

I am jealous for you. The reason for Paul's "folly" (see note on 2Co 11:1) was his deep concern for the Corinthians-concern to the point of jealousy, not for his own reputation, but zeal for their spiritual purity (see note on 2Co 11:3). godly jealousy. Jealousy inspired by zeal for God's causes, and thus similar to God's own jealousy for His holy name and His people's loyalty (cf. Exo 20:5; Exo 34:14; Deu 4:24; Deu 5:9; Deu 6:15; Deu 32:16, Deu 32:21; Jos 24:19; Psa 78:58; Eze 39:25; Nah 1:2). I have betrothed you to one husband. As their spiritual father (2Co 12:14; 1Co 4:15; cf. 2Co 9:1-2), Paul portrayed the Corinthians like a daughter, whom he betrothed to Jesus Christ (at their conversion). The OT pictures Israel as the wife of the Lord (cf. Isa 54:5; Jer 3:14; Hos 2:19-20), while the NT pictures the church as the bride of Christ (Eph 5:22-32; Rev 19:7). chaste virgin. Having betrothed or pledged the Corinthians to Christ, Paul wanted them to be pure until the marriage day finally arrived (cf. Rev 19:7). It was that passionate concern which provoked Paul's jealousy (see note on 2Co 11:1) and prompted him to set forth his apostolic credentials.

Bible Cross References

Hosea 2:19 2 Corinthians 4:14 Ephesians 5:26 Ephesians 5:27 Revelation 14:4

Verse 3

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

The apostle gives the reasons for speaking in his own commendation.

The apostle desired to preserve the Corinthians from being corrupted by the false apostles. There is but one Jesus, one Spirit, and one gospel, to be preached to them, and received by them; and why should any be prejudiced, by the devices of an adversary, against him who first taught them in faith? They should not listen to men, who, without cause, would draw them away from those who were the means of their conversion.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

But I fear - Love is full of these fears. Lest as the serpent - A most apposite comparison. Deceived Eve - Simple, ignorant of evil. By his subtilty - Which is in the highest degree dangerous to such a disposition. So your minds - We might therefore be tempted, even if there were no sin in us. Might be corrupted - Losing their virginal purity. From the simplicity that is in Christ - That simplicity which is lovingly intent on him alone, seeking no other person or thing.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

But I fearHe begins to explain, what is the nature of thatvirginity of which he has made mention — our cleaving to Christ alone, sincerely, with our whole heart. God, indeed, everywhere requires from us, that we be joined with him in body and in spirit, and he warns us that he is ajealous God, (Exodus 20:5,) to avenge with the utmost severity the wrong done to him, in the event of any one’s drawing back from him. This connection, however, is accomplished in Christ, as Paul teaches in Ephesians, (Ephesians 5:25, 27.) He points out, however, at present the means of it — when we remain in the pure simplicity of the gospel, for, as in contracting marriages among men, there are written contractsdrawn out, so the spiritual connection between us and the Son of God is confirmed by the gospel, as a kind of written contract.Let us maintain the fidelity, love, and obedience, that have been there promised by us; he will be faithful to us on his part.Now Paul says that he is concerned, that the minds of the Corinthians may not be corrupted from the simplicity that is in ChristPaul, it is true, says in Greekεἰς Χριστόν, which Erasmus renderstowards Christ,but the Old Interpreter has come nearer, in my opinion, to Paul’s intention,because by thesimplicity that is in Christis meant, that which keeps us in the unadulterated and pure doctrine of the gospel, and admits of no foreign admixturesBy this he intimates that men’s minds areadulterated,whenever they turn aside, even in the least degree, to the one side or to the other, from the pure doctrine of Christ. Nor is it without good reason, for who would not condemn a matron as guilty of unchastity, so soon as she lends an ear to a seducer? So in like manner we, when we admit wicked and false teachers, who are Satan’s vile agents, show but too clearly, that we do not maintain conjugal fidelity towards Christ. We must also take notice of the termsimplicity,for Paul’s fear was not, lest the Corinthians should all at once openly draw back altogether from Christ, but lest, by turning aside, by little and little, from the simplicity which they had learned, so as to go after profane and foreign contrivances, they should at length become adulterated.He brings forward a comparison as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtiltyFor if false teachers have a show of wisdom, if they have any power of eloquence for persuading, if they plausibly insinuate themselves into the minds of their hearers, and instill their poison by fawning artifices, it was in a similar way that Satan alsobeguiled Eve, as he did not openly declare himself to be an enemy, but crept in privily under a specious pretext.

McArther Bible Commentary

Paul compared the danger facing the Corinthian church to Eve's deception by Satan. He feared the Corinthians, like Eve, would fall prey to satanic lies and have their minds corrupted. The tragic result would be the abandonment of their simple devotion to Christ in favor of the sophisticated error of the false apostles. Paul's allusion to Genesis 3 implies that the false apostles were Satan's emissaries-a truth that he later made explicit (2Co 11:13-15).

Bible Cross References

Genesis 3:1 Genesis 3:4 Genesis 3:13 Genesis 3:20 John 8:44 2 Corinthians 11:20 Ephesians 4:14 Ephesians 4:22 1 Thessalonians 3:5 1 Timothy 2:14 Revelation 12:9 Revelation 12:15

Verse 4

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

The apostle gives the reasons for speaking in his own commendation.

The apostle desired to preserve the Corinthians from being corrupted by the false apostles. There is but one Jesus, one Spirit, and one gospel, to be preached to them, and received by them; and why should any be prejudiced, by the devices of an adversary, against him who first taught them in faith? They should not listen to men, who, without cause, would draw them away from those who were the means of their conversion.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

If indeed - Any could show you another Saviour, a more powerful Spirit, a better gospel. Ye might well bear with him - But this is impossible.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

For if he that cometh.He now reproves the Corinthians for the excessive readiness, which they showed to receive the false apostles. For while they were towards Paul himself excessively morose and irritable,so that on any, even the least occasion, they were offended if he gave them even the slightest reproof, there was, on the other hand, nothing that they did not bear with, on the part of the false Apostles. They willingly endured their pride, haughtiness, and unreasonableness. An absurd reverence of this nature he condemns, because in the mean time they showed no discrimination or judgment. “How is it that they takeso much liberty with you, and you submit patiently to their control? Had they brought you another Christ, or another gospel, or another Spirit, different from what you received through my hands, I would assuredly approve of your regard for them, for they would be deserving of such honor. But as they have conferred upon you nothing, that I had not given you previously, what sort of gratitude do you show in all but adoring those, to whom you are indebted for nothing, while you despise me, through whom God has bestowed upon you so many and so distinguished benefits?” Such is the reverence that is shown even at this day by Papists towards their pretended Bishops. For while they are oppressed by their excessively harsh tyranny,they submit to it without difficulty; but, at the same time, do not hesitate to treat Christ himself with contempt.The expressions — another Christ, andanother gospel, are made use of here in a different sense from what they bear inGalatians 1:8. Foranotheris used there in opposition to what is true and genuine, and hence it meansfalse andcounterfeit. Here, on the other hand, he means to say — “If the gospel had come to you through their ministry, and not through mine.”

McArther Bible Commentary

he who comes. The false apostles came into the Corinthian church from the outside-just as Satan did into the Garden of Eden. Likely, they were Palestinian Jews (cf. 2Co 11:22; Act 6:1) who sought to bring the Corinthians under the sway of the Jerusalem church. They were in a sense Judaizers, seeking to impose Jewish customs on the Corinthians. Unlike the Judaizers who plagued the Galatian churches (cf. Gal 5:2), however, the false apostles at Corinth apparently did not insist that the Corinthians be circumcised. Nor did they practice a rigid legalism; in fact, they apparently encouraged licentiousness (cf. 2Co 12:21). Their fascination with rhetoric and oratory (cf. 2Co 10:10) suggests they had been influenced by Greek culture and philosophy. They claimed (falsely, cf. Act 15:24) to represent the Jerusalem church, even possessing letters of commendation (see note on 2Co 3:1). Claiming to be the most eminent of apostles (2Co 11:5), they scorned Paul's apostolic claims. Though their teaching may have differed from the Galatian Judaizers, it was just as deadly. another Jesus … a different spirit … a different gospel. Despite their vicious attacks on him, Paul's quarrel with the false apostles was not personal, but doctrinal. He could tolerate those hostile to him, as long as they preached the gospel of Jesus Christ (cf. Php 1:15-18). Those who adulterated the true gospel, however, received Paul's strongest condemnation (cf. Gal 1:6-9). Though the precise details of what the false apostles taught are unknown, they preached "another Jesus" and "a different spirit," which added up to "a different gospel." you may well put up with it! Paul's fear that the Corinthians would embrace the damning lies of the false apostles prompted his jealous concern for them (see notes on 2Co 11:2-3).

Bible Cross References

Mark 7:9 Romans 8:15 1 Corinthians 3:11 2 Corinthians 2:12 2 Corinthians 11:1 Galatians 1:6 1 Timothy 1:3

Verse 5

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

Shows that he had freely preached the gospel.

It is far better to be plain in speech, yet walking openly and consistently with the gospel, than to be admired by thousands, and be lifted up in pride, so as to disgrace the gospel by evil tempers and unholy lives. The apostle would not give room for any to accuse him of worldly designs in preaching the gospel, that others who opposed him at Corinth, might not in this respect gain advantage against him. Hypocrisy may be looked for, especially when we consider the great power which Satan, who rules in the hearts of the children of disobedience, has upon the minds of many. And as there are temptations to evil conduct, so there is equal danger on the other side. It serves Satan's purposes as well, to set up good works against the atonement of Christ, and salvation by faith and grace. But the end will discover those who are deceitful workers; their work will end in ruin. Satan will allow his ministers to preach either the law or the gospel separately; but the law as established by faith in Christ's righteousness and atonement, and the partaking of his Spirit, is the test of every false system.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

For I reckon that I am.He now convicts them of ingratitude, by removing the only thing that could serve as an excuse for them, for he shows that he is on a level, even with the chief of the Apostles. The Corinthians, therefore, were ungratefulin not esteeming him more highly, after having found him, by experience, to be such; while, on the other hand, the authority that was justly due to him, they transferred to persons of no value. For the sake of modesty, however, he says that hereckons so, while the thing was known and manifest to all. His meaning, however, is, that God had honored his Apostleship with no less distinguished marks of favor, than that of John or Peter. Now the man that despises the gifts of God, which he himself recognizes, cannot clear himself from the charge of being spiteful and ungrateful. Hence, wherever you see the gifts of God, you must there reverence God himself:I mean, that every one is worthy of honor, in so far as he is distinguished by graces received from God, and especially if any advantage has redounded to thee from them.

McArther Bible Commentary

the most eminent apostles. Possibly a reference to the twelve apostles, in which case Paul was asserting that, contrary to the claims of the false apostles (who said they were sent from the Jerusalem church; see note on 2Co 11:4), he was in no way inferior to the Twelve (cf. 1Co 15:7-9). More likely, Paul was making a sarcastic reference to the false apostles, based on their exalted view of themselves. It is unlikely that he would refer to the twelve in the context of false teaching (cf. 2Co 11:1-4), nor does the comparison that follows seem to be between Paul and the Twelve (Paul certainly would not have had to defend his speaking skills against those of the Twelve; cf. Act 4:13).

Bible Cross References

2 Corinthians 12:11 Galatians 2:6 Galatians 2:9

Verse 6

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

Shows that he had freely preached the gospel.

It is far better to be plain in speech, yet walking openly and consistently with the gospel, than to be admired by thousands, and be lifted up in pride, so as to disgrace the gospel by evil tempers and unholy lives. The apostle would not give room for any to accuse him of worldly designs in preaching the gospel, that others who opposed him at Corinth, might not in this respect gain advantage against him. Hypocrisy may be looked for, especially when we consider the great power which Satan, who rules in the hearts of the children of disobedience, has upon the minds of many. And as there are temptations to evil conduct, so there is equal danger on the other side. It serves Satan's purposes as well, to set up good works against the atonement of Christ, and salvation by faith and grace. But the end will discover those who are deceitful workers; their work will end in ruin. Satan will allow his ministers to preach either the law or the gospel separately; but the law as established by faith in Christ's righteousness and atonement, and the partaking of his Spirit, is the test of every false system.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

If I am unskilful in speech - If I speak in a plain, unadorned way, like an unlearned person. So the Greek word properly signifies.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

But though I am rudeThere was one thingin which he might appear, at first view, to be inferior — that he was devoid of eloquence. This judgment,therefore, he anticipates and corrects, while heacknowledges himself, indeed, to berudeand unpolishedin speech, while at the same time he maintains that he hasknowledgeByspeechhere he means, elegance of expression; and byknowledgehe means, the very substance of doctrine. For as man has both a soul and a body, so also in doctrine, there is the thing itself that is taught, and the ornament of expression with which it is clothed. Paul, therefore, maintains that he understands, what should be taught, and what is necessary to be known, though he is not an eloquent orator, so as to know how to set off his doctrine by a polished and eloquent manner of expression.It is asked, however, whether elegance of speechis not also necessary for Apostles; for how will they otherwise be prepared for teaching?Knowledgemight perhaps suffice for others, but how could a teacher be dumb? I answer, that, while Paul acknowledges himself to berude in speech, it is not as though he were a mere infant, but as meaning, that he was not distinguished by such splendid eloquence as others, to whom he yields the palm as to this, retaining for himself what was the principal thing — the reality itself,while he leaves them talkativeness without gravity. If, however, any one should inquire, why it is that the Lord,who made men’s tongues, (Exodus 4:11,) did not also endow so eminent an apostle with eloquence, that nothing might be wanting to him, I answer, that he was furnished with asufficiency for supplying the want of eloquence. For we see and feel, what majesty there is in his writings, what elevation appears in them, what a weight of meaning is couched under them, what power is discovered in them. In fine, they are thunderbolts, not mere words. Does not the efficacy of the Spirit appear more clearly in a naked rusticity of words, (so to speak,) than under the disguise of elegance and ornament? Of this matter, however, we have treated more largely in the former Epistle.In short, he admits, as far as words are concerned, what his adversaries allege by way of objection, while he denies in reality what they hold forth. Let us also learn, from his example, to prefer deeds to words, and, to use a barbarous but common proverb — “Teneant alii quid nominis, nos autem quidrei;” — “Let others know something of thename, but let us know something of thereality.”If eloquence is superadded, let it be regarded by us as something over and above; and farther, let it not be made use of for disguising doctrine, or adulterating it, but for unfolding it in its genuine simplicity.But everywhere.As there was something magnificent in placing himself on a level with the chief Apostles, that this may not be ascribed to arrogance, he makes the Corinthians judges, provided they judge from what they have themselves experienced; for they had known sufficiently well, from many proofs, that he did not boast needlessly, or without good reason. He means, therefore, that he needs not make use of words, inasmuch as reality and experience afford clear evidence of every thing that he was about to say

McArther Bible Commentary

untrained in speech. Paul acknowledged his lack of training in the rhetorical skills so prized in Greek culture (see note on 2Co 10:10; cf. Act 18:24); he was a preacher of the gospel, not a professional orator. I am not in knowledge. Whatever deficiencies Paul may have had as an orator, he had none in terms of knowledge. Paul did not refer here to his rabbinic training under Gamaliel (Act 22:3), but to his knowledge of the gospel (cf. 1Co 2:6-11; Eph 3:1-5), which he had received directly from God (Gal 1:12).

Bible Cross References

1 Corinthians 1:17 1 Corinthians 12:8 2 Corinthians 4:2 2 Corinthians 6:6 2 Corinthians 10:10 Ephesians 3:4

Verse 7

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

Shows that he had freely preached the gospel.

It is far better to be plain in speech, yet walking openly and consistently with the gospel, than to be admired by thousands, and be lifted up in pride, so as to disgrace the gospel by evil tempers and unholy lives. The apostle would not give room for any to accuse him of worldly designs in preaching the gospel, that others who opposed him at Corinth, might not in this respect gain advantage against him. Hypocrisy may be looked for, especially when we consider the great power which Satan, who rules in the hearts of the children of disobedience, has upon the minds of many. And as there are temptations to evil conduct, so there is equal danger on the other side. It serves Satan's purposes as well, to set up good works against the atonement of Christ, and salvation by faith and grace. But the end will discover those who are deceitful workers; their work will end in ruin. Satan will allow his ministers to preach either the law or the gospel separately; but the law as established by faith in Christ's righteousness and atonement, and the partaking of his Spirit, is the test of every false system.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

Have I committed an offence - Will any turn this into an objection? In humbling myself - To work at my trade. That ye might be exalted - To be children of God.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

Have I committed an offense?His humility was cast up to him by way of reproach, while it was an excellence that was deserving of no ordinary commendation.Humility here means — voluntary abasement; for in conducting himself modestly, as if he had nothing in him that was particularly excellent, so that many looked upon him as one of the common people, he had done that for the advantage of the Corinthians. For the man was inflamed with so great a desire,and so great an anxiety for their salvation, that he made a regard to himself a secondary consideration. Hence he says, that he had of his own accord made a surrender of his own greatness, that they might become great through his abasement. For his design was, that he might promote their salvation. He now indirectly charges them with ingratitude, in imputing to him as a fault so pious a disposition — not indeed for the purpose of reproaching him, but with the view of restoring them so much the better to a sound mind. And certainly, he wounded them more severely by speakingironically, than if he had spoken in a simple way, and without a figure. He might have said, “What is this? Am I despised by you, because I have lowered myself for your advantage?” The questioning, however, which he makes use of, was more forcible for putting them to shame.Because I preached freelyThis is a part of his abasement. For he had given up his own right, as though his condition had been inferior to that of others; but such was the unreasonableness of some of them, that they esteemed him the less on that account, as if he had been undeserving of remuneration. The reason, why he had given his services to the Corinthians gratuitously, is immediately subjoined — for he did not act in this manner everywhere, but, as we have seen in the former Epistle,there was a danger of his furnishing the false Apostles with a handle against him.

McArther Bible Commentary

free of charge. Greek culture measured the importance of a teacher by the fee he could command. The false apostles therefore accused Paul of being a counterfeit, since he refused to charge for his services (cf. 1Co 9:1-15). They convinced the Corinthians to be offended by Paul's refusal to accept support from them, offering this as evidence that he did not love them (cf. 2Co 11:11). Paul's resort to manual labor to support himself (Act 18:1-3) also embarrassed the Corinthians, who felt such work to be beneath the dignity of an apostle. With biting irony Paul asked his accusers how foregoing his right to support could possibly be a sin. In fact, by refusing support he had humbled himself so they could be exalted; that is, lifted out of their sin and idolatry.

Bible Cross References

Acts 18:3 Acts 20:33 Romans 1:1 1 Corinthians 9:18 2 Corinthians 2:12 2 Corinthians 10:16 2 Corinthians 12:13

Verse 8

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

Shows that he had freely preached the gospel.

It is far better to be plain in speech, yet walking openly and consistently with the gospel, than to be admired by thousands, and be lifted up in pride, so as to disgrace the gospel by evil tempers and unholy lives. The apostle would not give room for any to accuse him of worldly designs in preaching the gospel, that others who opposed him at Corinth, might not in this respect gain advantage against him. Hypocrisy may be looked for, especially when we consider the great power which Satan, who rules in the hearts of the children of disobedience, has upon the minds of many. And as there are temptations to evil conduct, so there is equal danger on the other side. It serves Satan's purposes as well, to set up good works against the atonement of Christ, and salvation by faith and grace. But the end will discover those who are deceitful workers; their work will end in ruin. Satan will allow his ministers to preach either the law or the gospel separately; but the law as established by faith in Christ's righteousness and atonement, and the partaking of his Spirit, is the test of every false system.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

I spoiled other churches - I, as it were, took the spoils of them: it is a military term. Taking wages (or pay, another military word) of them - When I came to you at first. And when I was present with you, and wanted - My work not quite supplying my necessities. I was chargeable to no man - Of Corinth.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

I robbed other churchesHe has intentionally, in my opinion, made use of an offensive term, that he might the more forcibly express the unreasonableness of the matter — in respect of his being despised by the Corinthians. “I have,” says he, “procured pay for myself from thespoils of others, that I might serve you. While I have thus spared you, how unreasonable it is to make me so poor a return!” It is, however, a metaphor, that is taken from what is customary among soldiers; for as conquerors takespoils from the nations that they have conquered, so every thing that Paul took from the Churches that he had gained to Christ was, in a manner, thespoils of his victories, though, at the same time, he never would have taken it from persons against their will, but what they contributed gratuitously was, in a manner, due by right of spiritual warfare.

McArther Bible Commentary

I robbed other churches. Robbed is a very strong word, used in extrabiblical Greek to refer to pillaging. Paul, of course, did not take money from churches without their consent; his point is that the churches who supported him while he ministered in Corinth received no direct benefit from the support they gave him. Why Paul refused to accept the support he was entitled to from the Corinthians (1Co 9:15) is not clear (see note on 2Co 11:12); perhaps some of them were suspicious of his motives in promoting the offering for the Jerusalem church (cf. 2Co 12:16-18).

Bible Cross References

1 Corinthians 4:12 1 Corinthians 9:6 Philippians 4:15 Philippians 4:18

Verse 9

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

Shows that he had freely preached the gospel.

It is far better to be plain in speech, yet walking openly and consistently with the gospel, than to be admired by thousands, and be lifted up in pride, so as to disgrace the gospel by evil tempers and unholy lives. The apostle would not give room for any to accuse him of worldly designs in preaching the gospel, that others who opposed him at Corinth, might not in this respect gain advantage against him. Hypocrisy may be looked for, especially when we consider the great power which Satan, who rules in the hearts of the children of disobedience, has upon the minds of many. And as there are temptations to evil conduct, so there is equal danger on the other side. It serves Satan's purposes as well, to set up good works against the atonement of Christ, and salvation by faith and grace. But the end will discover those who are deceitful workers; their work will end in ruin. Satan will allow his ministers to preach either the law or the gospel separately; but the law as established by faith in Christ's righteousness and atonement, and the partaking of his Spirit, is the test of every false system.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

For - I choose to receive help from the poor Macedonians, rather than the rich Corinthians! Were the poor in all ages more generous than the rich?

John Calvin Bible Commentary

Observe, however, that he says that he had been in want, for he would never have been a burden to them, had he not been constrained by necessity. He, nevertheless, in the mean time,labored with his hands, as we have seen before, (1 Corinthians 4:12,) but, as thelabor of his hands was not sufficient for sustaining life, something additional was contributed by the Macedonians. Accordingly he does not say, that his living had been furnished to him by the Macedonians,but merely that they had supplied what was wanting. We have spoken elsewhere of the Apostle’s holy prudence and diligence in providing against dangers. Here we must take notice of the pious zeal of the Macedonians, who did not hesitate to contribute of their substance for his pay, that the gospel might be proclaimed to others, and those, too, that were wealthier than themselves. Ah! how fewMacedonians are there in the present day, and on the other hand how manyCorinthians you may find everywhere!

McArther Bible Commentary

brethren who came from Macedonia. Silas and Timothy (Act 18:5) bringing money from Philippi (Php 4:15) and, possibly, Thessalonica (cf. 1Th 3:6). The Macedonians' generous financial support allowed Paul to devote himself full time to preaching the gospel.

Bible Cross References

Acts 18:5 Romans 15:26 1 Corinthians 16:17 2 Corinthians 12:13 2 Corinthians 12:14 2 Corinthians 12:16 Philippians 4:10 Philippians 4:12 Philippians 4:15 1 Thessalonians 2:9

Verse 10

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

Shows that he had freely preached the gospel.

It is far better to be plain in speech, yet walking openly and consistently with the gospel, than to be admired by thousands, and be lifted up in pride, so as to disgrace the gospel by evil tempers and unholy lives. The apostle would not give room for any to accuse him of worldly designs in preaching the gospel, that others who opposed him at Corinth, might not in this respect gain advantage against him. Hypocrisy may be looked for, especially when we consider the great power which Satan, who rules in the hearts of the children of disobedience, has upon the minds of many. And as there are temptations to evil conduct, so there is equal danger on the other side. It serves Satan's purposes as well, to set up good works against the atonement of Christ, and salvation by faith and grace. But the end will discover those who are deceitful workers; their work will end in ruin. Satan will allow his ministers to preach either the law or the gospel separately; but the law as established by faith in Christ's righteousness and atonement, and the partaking of his Spirit, is the test of every false system.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

This my boasting shall not be stopped - For I will receive nothing from you.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

The truth of Christ is in me.Lest any one should suspect, that Paul’s words were designed to induce the Corinthians to be more liberal to him in future, and endeavor to make amends for their error in the past, he affirms with an oath, that he would take nothing from them, or from others in Achaia, though it were offered to him. For this manner of expression —the truth of Christ is in me,is in the form of oath. Let me not be thought to have thetruth of Christin me if I do not retain this glorying among the inhabitants of Achaia. Now Corinth was in Achaia.

McArther Bible Commentary

this boasting. About his ministering free of charge (see note on 2Co 11:7; cf. 1Co 9:15, 1Co 9:18). the regions of Achaia. The Roman province of which Corinth was the capital and leading city (see note on 2Co 9:2). The false apostles apparently were affecting more than just the city of Corinth.

Bible Cross References

Acts 18:12 Romans 1:9 Romans 9:1 1 Corinthians 9:15 2 Corinthians 1:23 Galatians 2:20

Verse 11

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

Shows that he had freely preached the gospel.

It is far better to be plain in speech, yet walking openly and consistently with the gospel, than to be admired by thousands, and be lifted up in pride, so as to disgrace the gospel by evil tempers and unholy lives. The apostle would not give room for any to accuse him of worldly designs in preaching the gospel, that others who opposed him at Corinth, might not in this respect gain advantage against him. Hypocrisy may be looked for, especially when we consider the great power which Satan, who rules in the hearts of the children of disobedience, has upon the minds of many. And as there are temptations to evil conduct, so there is equal danger on the other side. It serves Satan's purposes as well, to set up good works against the atonement of Christ, and salvation by faith and grace. But the end will discover those who are deceitful workers; their work will end in ruin. Satan will allow his ministers to preach either the law or the gospel separately; but the law as established by faith in Christ's righteousness and atonement, and the partaking of his Spirit, is the test of every false system.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

Do I refuse to receive anything of you, because I love you not? God knoweth that is not the case.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

Is it because I love you not?Those that we love, we treat with greater familiarity. Lest the Corinthians, therefore, should take it amiss, that he refused their liberality, while he allowed himself to be assisted by the Macedonians, and even declared with an oath that he would do so still, he anticipates that suspicion also. And by the figure termedanthypophora,he asks, as it were in their name, whether this is a token of a malevolent mind? He does not return a direct answer to the question, but the indirect answer that he returns has much more weight, inasmuch as he calls God to be a witness of his good disposition towards them. You see here, that in the course of three versesthere are two oaths, but they are lawful and holy, because they have a good design in view, and a legitimate reason is involved. Hence to condemn indiscriminately all oaths is to act the part of fanatics, who make no distinction between white and black.

Bible Cross References

Romans 1:9 2 Corinthians 2:17 2 Corinthians 11:31 2 Corinthians 12:2 2 Corinthians 12:3 2 Corinthians 12:15

Verse 12

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

Shows that he had freely preached the gospel.

It is far better to be plain in speech, yet walking openly and consistently with the gospel, than to be admired by thousands, and be lifted up in pride, so as to disgrace the gospel by evil tempers and unholy lives. The apostle would not give room for any to accuse him of worldly designs in preaching the gospel, that others who opposed him at Corinth, might not in this respect gain advantage against him. Hypocrisy may be looked for, especially when we consider the great power which Satan, who rules in the hearts of the children of disobedience, has upon the minds of many. And as there are temptations to evil conduct, so there is equal danger on the other side. It serves Satan's purposes as well, to set up good works against the atonement of Christ, and salvation by faith and grace. But the end will discover those who are deceitful workers; their work will end in ruin. Satan will allow his ministers to preach either the law or the gospel separately; but the law as established by faith in Christ's righteousness and atonement, and the partaking of his Spirit, is the test of every false system.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

Who desire any occasion - To censure me. That wherein they boast, they may be found even as we - They boasted of being "burdensome to no man." But it was a vain boast in them, though not in the apostle.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

But what I do.He again explains the reason of his intention.The false Apostles, with the view of alluring to themselves ignorant persons, took no pay. Their serving gratuitously was a show of uncommon zeal.If Paul had availed himself of his right, he would have given them occasion to raise their crest, as if they had been greatly superior to him. Paul, accordingly, that he might give them no occasion of doing injury, did himself, also, preach the Gospel, free of charge, and this is what he adds — that he is desirous tocut off occasion from those that desire occasionFor the false Apostles were desirous to insinuate themselves by this artifice, and to detract, in proportion to this, from Paul’s credit, if they were superior to him in any respect. He says, that he will not give them this advantage. “They will be found,” says he, “on a level with us in that glorying which they would wish to have for themselves exclusively.” This, however, is a useful admonition in connection with cutting off occasion from the wicked, as often as they desire one. For this is the only way to overcome them — not in the way of furnishing them with arms through our imprudence.

McArther Bible Commentary

continue to do. That Paul refused to accept financial support from the Corinthians was a source of embarrassment to the false apostles, who eagerly sought money for their services. Paul intended to keep his ministry free of charge and thereby undermine the false apostles' claims that they operated on the same basis as he did.

Bible Cross References

Matthew 26:16 1 Corinthians 9:12

Verse 13

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

Shows that he had freely preached the gospel.

It is far better to be plain in speech, yet walking openly and consistently with the gospel, than to be admired by thousands, and be lifted up in pride, so as to disgrace the gospel by evil tempers and unholy lives. The apostle would not give room for any to accuse him of worldly designs in preaching the gospel, that others who opposed him at Corinth, might not in this respect gain advantage against him. Hypocrisy may be looked for, especially when we consider the great power which Satan, who rules in the hearts of the children of disobedience, has upon the minds of many. And as there are temptations to evil conduct, so there is equal danger on the other side. It serves Satan's purposes as well, to set up good works against the atonement of Christ, and salvation by faith and grace. But the end will discover those who are deceitful workers; their work will end in ruin. Satan will allow his ministers to preach either the law or the gospel separately; but the law as established by faith in Christ's righteousness and atonement, and the partaking of his Spirit, is the test of every false system.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

For such are false ApostlesWhile he has already taken away from them what they chiefly desired, yet, not contented with having put himself on a level with them with respect to that in which they were desirous to excel, he leaves them nothing for which they deserve any commendation. It was apparently a laudable thing to despise money, but he says, that they make use of a pretense for the purpose of deceiving, exactly as if a harlot were to borrow the apparel of a decent matron. For it was necessary to pull off the mask, which obscured the glory of God.They are deceitful workers, says he, that is — they do not discover their wickedness at first view, but artfully insinuate themselves under some fair pretext.Hence they require to be carefully and thoroughly sifted, lest we should receive persons as servants of Christ, as soon as any appearance of excellence is discovered. Nor does Paul in malice and envy put an unfavorable construction upon what might be looked upon as an excellence, but, constrained by their dishonesty, he unfolds to view the evil that lay hid, because there was a dangerous profanation of virtue in pretending to burn with greater zeal than all the servants of Christ.

McArther Bible Commentary

No longer speaking with veiled irony or defending himself, Paul bluntly and directly exposed the false apostles for what they were-emissaries of Satan. Not only was their claim to apostleship false; so also was their doctrine (see note on 2Co 11:4). As satanic purveyors of false teaching, they were under the curse of Gal 1:8-9. Paul's forceful language may seem harsh, but it expressed the godly jealousy he felt for the Corinthians (see note on 2Co 11:2). Paul was unwilling to sacrifice truth for the sake of unity. Cf. 1Ti 4:12; 2Pe 2:1-17; Jud 1:8-13.

Bible Cross References

Jeremiah 23:16 Jeremiah 27:14 Acts 20:30 Galatians 1:7 Galatians 2:4 Philippians 1:15 Philippians 3:2 Philippians 3:18 Titus 1:10 2 Peter 2:1 Revelation 2:2

Verse 14

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

Shows that he had freely preached the gospel.

It is far better to be plain in speech, yet walking openly and consistently with the gospel, than to be admired by thousands, and be lifted up in pride, so as to disgrace the gospel by evil tempers and unholy lives. The apostle would not give room for any to accuse him of worldly designs in preaching the gospel, that others who opposed him at Corinth, might not in this respect gain advantage against him. Hypocrisy may be looked for, especially when we consider the great power which Satan, who rules in the hearts of the children of disobedience, has upon the minds of many. And as there are temptations to evil conduct, so there is equal danger on the other side. It serves Satan's purposes as well, to set up good works against the atonement of Christ, and salvation by faith and grace. But the end will discover those who are deceitful workers; their work will end in ruin. Satan will allow his ministers to preach either the law or the gospel separately; but the law as established by faith in Christ's righteousness and atonement, and the partaking of his Spirit, is the test of every false system.

EGW SDA Bible Commentary

Judging Not Man's Prerogative

—The 11th chapter of 2 Corinthians contains much instruction. It reveals to us that men who are liable to view matters after human eyesight may make very grave mistakes if they engage in a work that God has not appointed, but condemned. That work is to criticize, to climb upon the judgment seat, and pronounce sentence. How much better would it be for the spiritual advancement of such to look well to their own shortcomings and defects of character through watchful examination of their own hearts, to try to remove from them the beam of faultfinding, of evil surmising, of evil speaking, of bearing false witness, of hatred, and accusing of the brethren (Manuscript 142, 1897). (Matthew 24:24; John 10:4; see EGW on Ephesians 6:10-12). Meeting Satan's Crowning Deception—Satan came as an angel of light in the wilderness of temptation to deceive Christ; and he does not come to man in a hideous form, as he is sometimes represented, but as an angel of light. He will come personating Jesus Christ, working mighty miracles; and men will fall down and worship him as Jesus Christ. We shall be commanded to worship this being, whom the world will glorify as Christ. What shall we do?—Tell them that Christ has warned us against just such a foe, who is man's worst enemy, yet who claims to be God; and that when Christ shall make His appearance, it will be with power and great glory, accompanied by ten thousand times ten thousand angels and thousands of thousands; and that when He shall come, we shall know His voice (The Review and Herald, December 18, 1888).(Matthew 7:15;

EGW SDA Bible Commentary

. See EGW on Matthew 7:21-23.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

Satan himself is transformed - Uses to transform himself; to put on the fairest appearances.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

And no marvelIt is an argument from the greater to the less. “If Satan, who is the basest of all beings, nay, the head and chief of all wicked persons, transforms himself, what will his ministers do?” We have experience of both every day, for when Satan tempts us to evil, he does not profess to be what he really is. For he would lose his object, if we were made aware of his being a mortal enemy, and opposer of our salvation. Hence he always makes use of some cloak for the purpose of insnaring us, and does not immediatelyshow his horns, (as the common expression is,) but rather makes it his endeavor to appear as an angelEven when he tempts us to gross crimes, he makes use, nevertheless, of some pretext that he may draw us, when we are off our guard, into his nets. What then, if he attacks us under the appearance of good, nay, under the very title of God? His life-guards imitate, as I have said, the same artifice. These are golden preambles — “Vicar of Christ” — “Successor of Peter” — “Servant of God’s servants,” but let the masks be pulled off, and who and what will the Pope be discovered to be? Scarcely will Satan himself, his master, surpass so accomplished a scholar in any kind of abomination. It is a well known saying as to Babylon, that she gives poison to drink in a golden cup. (Jeremiah 51:7.) Hence we must be on our guard against masks.Should any one now ask, “Shall we then regard all with suspicion?” I answer, that the Apostle did not by any means intend this; for there are marks of discrimination, which it were the part of stupidity, not of prudence, to overlook. He was simply desirous to arouse our attention, that we may not straightway judge of the lion from the skin For if we are not hasty in forming a judgment, the Lord will order it so that the ears of the animal will be discovered ere long. Farther, he was desirous in like manner to admonish us, in forming an estimate of Christ’s servants, not to regard masks, but to seek after what is of more importance.Ministers of righteousnessis a Hebraism forfaithful and upright persons.

McArther Bible Commentary

Since the Prince of Darkness (cf. Luk 22:53; Act 26:18; Eph 6:12; Col 1:13) masquerades as an angel of light-that is, disguised as a messenger of truth-it is not surprising that his emissaries do as well. Satan deceived Eve (see notes on 2Co 11:3; Gen 3:1-7) and holds unbelievers captive (2Co 4:4; cf. Eph 2:1-3); his emissaries were attempting to deceive and enslave the Corinthians. The terrifying "end" these self-styled "ministers of righteousness" will face is God's judgment-the fate of all false teachers (Rom 3:8; 1Co 3:17; Php 3:19; 2Th 2:8; 2Pe 2:1, 2Pe 2:3, 2Pe 2:17; Jud 1:4, Jud 1:13).

Bible Cross References

Matthew 4:10 Galatians 1:8 Ephesians 6:12 Colossians 1:12 Colossians 1:13

Verse 15

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

Shows that he had freely preached the gospel.

It is far better to be plain in speech, yet walking openly and consistently with the gospel, than to be admired by thousands, and be lifted up in pride, so as to disgrace the gospel by evil tempers and unholy lives. The apostle would not give room for any to accuse him of worldly designs in preaching the gospel, that others who opposed him at Corinth, might not in this respect gain advantage against him. Hypocrisy may be looked for, especially when we consider the great power which Satan, who rules in the hearts of the children of disobedience, has upon the minds of many. And as there are temptations to evil conduct, so there is equal danger on the other side. It serves Satan's purposes as well, to set up good works against the atonement of Christ, and salvation by faith and grace. But the end will discover those who are deceitful workers; their work will end in ruin. Satan will allow his ministers to preach either the law or the gospel separately; but the law as established by faith in Christ's righteousness and atonement, and the partaking of his Spirit, is the test of every false system.

EGW SDA Bible Commentary

. See EGW on Matthew 7:21-23.

EGW SDA Bible Commentary

.) Paul had a very humble opinion of his own advancement in the Christian life. He says, “Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect.” He speaks of himself as the chief of sinners. Yet Paul had been highly honored of the Lord. He had been taken, in holy vision, to the third heaven, and had there received revelations of divine glory which he could not be permitted to make known (The Signs of the Times, January 11, 1883).(Romans 16:25; Ephesians 3:8, 9; Colossians 1:26.) Hidden Mysteries Revealed

—Mysteries which had been hidden for ages were revealed to him [Paul], and as much as he could bear of the workings of God, and of His dealings with human minds, was made known. The Lord told Paul that he must preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ. Light was to be given to the Gentiles. This is a mystery which had been hidden for ages (The Signs of the Times, January 30, 1912, reprinted from The Signs of the Times, March 25, 1897).

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

Therefore it is no great, no strange, thing; whose end, notwithstanding all their disguises, shall be according to their works.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

Whose end shall be.He adds this for the consolation of the pious. For it is the statement of a courageous man, who despises the foolish judgments of men, and patiently waits for the day of the Lord. In the mean time, he shows a singular boldness of conscience, which does not dread the judgment of God.

Bible Cross References

Romans 2:6 Romans 3:8

Verse 16

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

Explains what he was going to add in defence of his own character.

It is the duty and practice of Christians to humble themselves, in obedience to the command and example of the Lord; yet prudence must direct in what it is needful to do things which we may do lawfully, even the speaking of what God has wrought for us, and in us, and by us. Doubtless here is reference to facts in which the character of the false apostles had been shown. It is astonishing to see how such men bring their followers into bondage, and how they take from them and insult them.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

I say again - He premises a new apology to this new commendation of himself. Let no man think me a fool - Let none think I do this without the utmost necessity. But if any do think me foolish herein, yet bear with my folly.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

I say againThe Apostle has a twofold design. He has it partly in view to expose the disgusting vanity of the false Apostles, inasmuch as they were such extravagant trumpeters of their own praises; and farther, to expostulate with the Corinthians, because they shut him up to the necessity of glorying, contrary to the inclinations of his own mind. “I say again,”says he. For he had abundantly shown previously, that there was no reason, why he should be despised. He had also shown at the same time, that he was very unlike others, and therefore ought not to have his grounds of glorying estimated according to the rule of their measure. Thus he again shows, for what purpose he had hitherto gloried — that he might clear his apostleship from contempt; for if the Corinthians had done their duty, he would not have said one word as to this matter.Otherwise now as a fool“If I am reckoned by you afool, allow me at least to make use of my right and liberty — that is, to speak foolishly after the manner of fools.” Thus he reproves the false Apostles, who, while they were exceedingly silly in this respect,were not merely borne with by the Corinthians, but were received with great applause. He afterwards explains what kind of folly it is — the publishing of his own praises. While they did so without end and without measure, he intimates that it was a thing to which he was unaccustomed; for he says,for a little whileFor I take this clause as referring to time, so that the meaning is, that Paul did not wish to continue it long, but assumed, as it were, for the moment, the person of another, and immediately thereafter laid it aside, as we are accustomed to pass over lightly those things that are foreign to our object, while fools occupy themselves constantly (ἐν παρέργοις) in matters of inferior moment.

McArther Bible Commentary

After digressing to discuss the issue of financial support (2Co 11:7-12) and to expose the false teachers as emissaries of Satan (2Co 11:13-15), Paul returned to the "foolish" boasting the Corinthians had forced him into (2Co 11:1-6; see note on 2Co 11:1).

Bible Cross References

2 Corinthians 5:13 2 Corinthians 11:1 2 Corinthians 12:1 2 Corinthians 12:6 2 Corinthians 12:11

Verse 17

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

Explains what he was going to add in defence of his own character.

It is the duty and practice of Christians to humble themselves, in obedience to the command and example of the Lord; yet prudence must direct in what it is needful to do things which we may do lawfully, even the speaking of what God has wrought for us, and in us, and by us. Doubtless here is reference to facts in which the character of the false apostles had been shown. It is astonishing to see how such men bring their followers into bondage, and how they take from them and insult them.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

I speak not after the Lord - Not by an express command from him; though still under the direction of his Spirit. But as it were foolishly - In such a manner as many may think foolish.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

What I speak, I speak not after the LordHis disposition, it is true, had an eye to God, but the outward appearancemight seem unsuitable to a servant of the Lord. At the same time, the things that Paul confesses respecting himself, he, on the other hand, condemns in the false Apostles.For it was not his intention to praise himself, but simply to contrast himself with them, with the view of humbling them.Hence he transfers to his own person what belonged to them, that he may thus open the eyes of the Corinthians. What I have renderedboldness, is in the Greekὑπόστασις, as to the meaning of which term we have spoken in the. (2 Corinthians 9:4.)Subject-matterorsubstance, unquestionably, would not be at all suitable here.

McArther Bible Commentary

Paul acknowledged that boasting was "not according to the Lord" (cf. 2Co 10:1), but the desperate situation in Corinth (where the false apostles made their "boast according to the flesh") forced him to boast, not for self-glorification (Gal 6:14), but to counter the false doctrine threatening the Corinthian church (see note on 2Co 11:16).

Bible Cross References

1 Corinthians 7:12 1 Corinthians 7:25 2 Corinthians 11:1 2 Corinthians 11:21

Verse 18

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

Explains what he was going to add in defence of his own character.

It is the duty and practice of Christians to humble themselves, in obedience to the command and example of the Lord; yet prudence must direct in what it is needful to do things which we may do lawfully, even the speaking of what God has wrought for us, and in us, and by us. Doubtless here is reference to facts in which the character of the false apostles had been shown. It is astonishing to see how such men bring their followers into bondage, and how they take from them and insult them.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

After the flesh - That is, in external things.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

Since many glory.The meaningis— Should any one say to me, by way of objection, that what I do is faulty, what then as to others? Are not they my leaders? Am I alone, or am I the first, inglorying according to the flesh? Why should that be reckoned praiseworthy inthem, that is imputed to me as a fault?” So far then is Paul from ambition in recounting his own praises, that he is contented to be blamed on that account, provided he exposes the vanity of the false apostles.To glory after the flesh, is to boast one’s self, rather in what has a tendency towards show, than in a good conscience. For the termflesh, here, has a reference to the world — when we seek after praise from outward masks, which have a showy appearance before the world, and are regarded as excellent. In place of this term he had a little before made use of the expression —in appearance. (2 Corinthians 10:7.)

Bible Cross References

2 Corinthians 1:17 2 Corinthians 5:16 2 Corinthians 12:1 Philippians 3:3 Philippians 3:4

Verse 19

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

Explains what he was going to add in defence of his own character.

It is the duty and practice of Christians to humble themselves, in obedience to the command and example of the Lord; yet prudence must direct in what it is needful to do things which we may do lawfully, even the speaking of what God has wrought for us, and in us, and by us. Doubtless here is reference to facts in which the character of the false apostles had been shown. It is astonishing to see how such men bring their followers into bondage, and how they take from them and insult them.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

Being wise - A beautiful irony.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

For ye bear with fools willingly.He calls themwise— in my opinion,ironically. He was despised by them, which could not have been, had they not been puffed up with the greatest arroganceHe says, therefore — “Since you are so wise, act the part of wise men in bearing with me, whom you treat with contempt, as you would afool.”Hence I infer, that this discourse is not addressed to all indiscriminately, but some particular persons are reproved, who conducted themselves in an unkind manner.

McArther Bible Commentary

The Corinthians, wrote Paul sarcastically, should have no trouble bearing with a "fool" like him, since they themselves were so wise (cf. 1Co 4:10)!

Bible Cross References

1 Corinthians 4:10 Revelation 2:2

Verse 20

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

Explains what he was going to add in defence of his own character.

It is the duty and practice of Christians to humble themselves, in obedience to the command and example of the Lord; yet prudence must direct in what it is needful to do things which we may do lawfully, even the speaking of what God has wrought for us, and in us, and by us. Doubtless here is reference to facts in which the character of the false apostles had been shown. It is astonishing to see how such men bring their followers into bondage, and how they take from them and insult them.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

For ye suffer - Not only the folly, but the gross abuses, of those false apostles. If a man enslave you - Lord it over you in the most arbitrary manner. If he devour you - By his exorbitant demands; not - withstanding his boast of not being burdensome. If he take from you - By open violence. If he exalt himself - By the most unbounded self - commendation. If he smite you on the face - (A very possible case,) under pretence of divine zeal.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

For ye bear with it, if any one.There arethree ways in which this may be understood. He may be understood as reproving the Corinthians inirony, because they could not endure any thing, as is usually the case with effeminate persons; or he charges them with indolence, because they had given themselves up to the false Apostles in a disgraceful bondage; or he repeats, as it were, in the person of another, what was spitefully affirmed respecting himself,as if he claimed for himself a tyrannical authority over them. Thesecond meaning is approved by Chrysostom, Ambrose, and Augustine, and hence it is commonly received; and, indeed, it corresponds best with the context, although thethird is not less in accordance with my views. For we see, how he was calumniated from time to time by the malevolent, as if he domineered tyrannically, while he was very far from doing so. As, however, the other meaning is more generally received, I have no objection, that it should be held as the true one.Now this statement will correspond with the preceding one in this way: “You bear with every thing from others, if they oppress you, if they demand what belongs to you, if they treat you disdainfully. Why then will you not bear with me, as they are in no respect superior to me?” For as to his saying that he is not weak, he means that he had been endowed by God with such excellent graces, that he ought not to be looked upon as of the common order. For the wordweak has a more extensive signification, as we shall see again ere long.It has been the invariable custom, and will be so to the end, to resist contumaciously the servants of God, to get enraged on the least occasion,to grumble and murmur incessantly, to complain of even a moderate strictness,to hold all discipline in abhorrence; while, on the other hand, they put themselves under servile subjection to false apostles, impostors, or mere worthless pretenders, give them liberty to do any thing whatever, and patiently submit to and endure, whatever burden they may choose to impose upon them. Thus, at the present day, you will scarcely find one in thirty, who will put his neck willingly under Christ’s yoke, while all have endured with patience a tyranny so severe as that of the Pope. Those very persons are all at once in an uproar,in opposition to the fatherly and truly salutary reproofs of their pastors, who, on the other hand, had formerly swallowed down quietly every kind of insult, even the most atrocious, from the monks.Are not those worthy of Antichrist’s torturing rack, rather than of Christ’s mild sway, who have ears so tender and backward to listen to the truth? But thus it has been from the beginning.

McArther Bible Commentary

brings you into bondage. The Greek verb translated by this phrase appears elsewhere in the NT only in Gal 2:4, where it speaks of the Galatians' enslavement by the Judaizers. The false apostles had robbed the Corinthians of their freedom in Christ (cf. Gal 5:1). devours you. Or "preys upon you." This probably refers to the false teachers' demands for financial support (the same verb appears in Luk 20:47 where Jesus denounces the Pharisees for devouring widows' houses). takes from you. Better translated "takes advantage of you" (it is translated "I caught you by cunning" in 2Co 12:16). The false apostles were attempting to catch the Corinthians like fish in a net (cf. Luk 5:5-6). exalts himself. This refers to one who is presumptuous, puts on airs, acts arrogantly, or lords it over people (cf. 1Pe 5:3). strikes you on the face. The false apostles may have physically abused the Corinthians, but the phrase is more likely used in a metaphorical sense (cf. 1Co 9:27) to speak of the false teachers' humiliation of the Corinthians. To strike someone on the face was a sign of disrespect and contempt (cf. 1Ki 22:24; Luk 22:64; Act 23:2).

Bible Cross References

Mark 12:40 1 Corinthians 4:11 2 Corinthians 1:24 2 Corinthians 10:5 2 Corinthians 11:3 2 Corinthians 12:16 Galatians 2:4 Galatians 4:3 Galatians 4:9 Galatians 5:1

Verse 21

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

Explains what he was going to add in defence of his own character.

It is the duty and practice of Christians to humble themselves, in obedience to the command and example of the Lord; yet prudence must direct in what it is needful to do things which we may do lawfully, even the speaking of what God has wrought for us, and in us, and by us. Doubtless here is reference to facts in which the character of the false apostles had been shown. It is astonishing to see how such men bring their followers into bondage, and how they take from them and insult them.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

I speak with regard to reproach, as though we had been weak - I say, "Bear with me," even on supposition that the weakness be real which they reproach me with.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

Nay, in whatsoever.Paul had asked, why the Corinthians showed more respect to others than to him, while he had not been by any means weak, that is, contemptible. He now confirms this, because, if a comparison had been entered upon, he would not have been inferior to any one in any department of honor.

McArther Bible Commentary

too weak for that. Paul's sarcasm reached its peak as he noted that he was "too weak" to abuse the Corinthians as the false apostles had done (2Co 11:20).

Bible Cross References

2 Corinthians 6:8 2 Corinthians 10:2 2 Corinthians 10:10 2 Corinthians 11:1 2 Corinthians 11:17

Verse 22

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

He gives an account of his labours, cares, sufferings, dangers, and deliverances.

The apostle gives an account of his labours and sufferings; not out of pride or vain-glory, but to the honour of God, who enabled him to do and suffer so much for the cause of Christ; and shows wherein he excelled the false apostles, who tried to lessen his character and usefulness. It astonishes us to reflect on this account of his dangers, hardships, and sufferings, and to observe his patience, perseverance, diligence, cheerfulness, and usefulness, in the midst of all these trials. See what little reason we have to love the pomp and plenty of this world, when this blessed apostle felt so much hardship in it. Our utmost diligence and services appear unworthy of notice when compared with his, and our difficulties and trials scarcely can be perceived. It may well lead us to inquire whether or not we really are followers of Christ. Here we may study patience, courage, and firm trust in God. Here we may learn to think less of ourselves; and we should ever strictly keep to truth, as in God's presence; and should refer all to his glory, as the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is blessed for evermore.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

Are they Hebrews, Israelites, the seed of Abraham - These were the heads on which they boasted.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

He now, by enumerating particular instances, lets them see more distinctly, that he would not by any means be found inferior, if matters came to a contest. And in the first place, he makes mention of the glory of hisdescent, of which his rivals chiefly vaunted. “If,” says he, “they boast of illustriousdescent, I shall be on a level with them, for I also am anIsraelite, of theseed of Abraham.” This is a silly and empty boast, and yet Paul makes use ofthree terms to express it; nay more, he specifies, as it were,three different marks of excellence. By this repetition, in my opinion, he indirectly reproves their folly, inasmuch as they placed the sum-totalof their excellence in a thing that was so trivial,and this boasting was incessantly in their mouth, so as to be absolutely disgusting, as vain men are accustomed to pour forth empty bravadoes as to a mere nothing.As to the termHebrews, it appears fromGenesis 11:15, that it denotes descent, and is derived fromHeber; and farther, it is probable, that Abraham himself is so called inGenesis 14:13, in no other sense than this — that he was descended from that ancestor.Not altogether without some appearance of truth is the conjecture of those, who explain the term to meanthose dwelling beyond the river.We do not read, it is true, that any one was called so before Abraham, who hadpassed over the river, when he quitted his native country, and afterwards the appellation came to be a customary one among his posterity, as appears from the history of Joseph. The termination, however, shows that it is expressive of descent, and the passage, that I have quoted, abundantly confirms it.

McArther Bible Commentary

The third and most comprehensive list recorded in this letter of Paul's sufferings for the cause of Christ (cf. 2Co 4:8-12; 2Co 6:4-10).

Bible Cross References

Acts 6:1 Romans 9:4 Romans 11:1 Galatians 3:16 Philippians 3:5

Verse 23

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

He gives an account of his labours, cares, sufferings, dangers, and deliverances.

The apostle gives an account of his labours and sufferings; not out of pride or vain-glory, but to the honour of God, who enabled him to do and suffer so much for the cause of Christ; and shows wherein he excelled the false apostles, who tried to lessen his character and usefulness. It astonishes us to reflect on this account of his dangers, hardships, and sufferings, and to observe his patience, perseverance, diligence, cheerfulness, and usefulness, in the midst of all these trials. See what little reason we have to love the pomp and plenty of this world, when this blessed apostle felt so much hardship in it. Our utmost diligence and services appear unworthy of notice when compared with his, and our difficulties and trials scarcely can be perceived. It may well lead us to inquire whether or not we really are followers of Christ. Here we may study patience, courage, and firm trust in God. Here we may learn to think less of ourselves; and we should ever strictly keep to truth, as in God's presence; and should refer all to his glory, as the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is blessed for evermore.

EGW SDA Bible Commentary

Paul's Indomitable Courage

—Gain courage from the experience of the apostle Paul. He had many trials. He was an unwearied worker, and traveled constantly, sometimes through inhospitable regions, sometimes on the water, in storm and tempest. Far harder than ours was his lot, for traveling then had not the conveniences that it has now. But Paul allowed nothing to hinder him from his work (Letter 107, 1904).

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

I am more so than they. In deaths often - Surrounding me in the most dreadful forms.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

Are they ministers of Christ?Now when he is treating of matters truly praiseworthy, he is no longer satisfied with being on an equality with them, but exalts himself above them. For their carnal glories he has previously been scattering like smoke by a breath of wind,by placing in opposition to them those which he had of a similar kind; but as they had nothing of solid worth, he on good grounds separates himself from their society, when he has occasion to glory in good earnest. For to be aservant of Christ is a thing that is much more honorable and illustrious, than to be the first-born among all the first-born of Abraham’s posterity. Again, however, with the view of providing against calumnies, he premises that hespeaks as a fool“Imagine this,” says he, “to be foolish boasting: it is, nevertheless, true.”In labors. By these things he proves that he is a more eminent servant of Christ, andthen truly we have a proof that may be relied upon, whendeeds instead ofwords are brought forward. He uses the termlabors here in the plural number, and afterwardslaborWhat difference there is between the former and the latter I do not see, unless perhaps it be, that he speaks here in a more general way, including those things that he afterwards enumerates in detail. In the same way we may also understand the termdeathsto mean any kind ofperils that in a manner threatened present death, instances of which he afterwards specifies. “I have given proof of myself indeaths often, inlaborsoftener still.” He had made use of the termdeathsin the same sense in the first chapter. (2 Corinthians 1:10.)

McArther Bible Commentary

Are they ministers of Christ? Paul had already emphatically denied that they were (2Co 11:13); however, some of the Corinthians still believed they were. Paul accepted that belief for the sake of argument, then went on to show that his ministry was in every way superior to the false apostles' so-called "ministry." I speak as a fool. See note on verse 2Co 11:1. Once again Paul expressed his extreme distaste for the boasting the Corinthians had forced him into. in labors … in deaths often. A general summation of Paul's sufferings for the gospel; the next few verses give specific examples, many of which are not found in Acts. Paul was often in danger of death (Act 9:23, Act 9:29; Act 14:5, Act 14:19-20; Act 17:5; Act 21:30-32).

Bible Cross References

Jeremiah 36:5 Acts 9:16 Acts 16:23 Romans 8:36 1 Corinthians 3:5 1 Corinthians 4:9 1 Corinthians 4:11 1 Corinthians 15:10 2 Corinthians 3:6 2 Corinthians 6:4 2 Corinthians 6:5 2 Corinthians 10:7 Galatians 6:17 1 Timothy 4:6 2 Timothy 3:11

Verse 24

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

He gives an account of his labours, cares, sufferings, dangers, and deliverances.

The apostle gives an account of his labours and sufferings; not out of pride or vain-glory, but to the honour of God, who enabled him to do and suffer so much for the cause of Christ; and shows wherein he excelled the false apostles, who tried to lessen his character and usefulness. It astonishes us to reflect on this account of his dangers, hardships, and sufferings, and to observe his patience, perseverance, diligence, cheerfulness, and usefulness, in the midst of all these trials. See what little reason we have to love the pomp and plenty of this world, when this blessed apostle felt so much hardship in it. Our utmost diligence and services appear unworthy of notice when compared with his, and our difficulties and trials scarcely can be perceived. It may well lead us to inquire whether or not we really are followers of Christ. Here we may study patience, courage, and firm trust in God. Here we may learn to think less of ourselves; and we should ever strictly keep to truth, as in God's presence; and should refer all to his glory, as the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is blessed for evermore.

EGW SDA Bible Commentary

Paul's Indomitable Courage

—Gain courage from the experience of the apostle Paul. He had many trials. He was an unwearied worker, and traveled constantly, sometimes through inhospitable regions, sometimes on the water, in storm and tempest. Far harder than ours was his lot, for traveling then had not the conveniences that it has now. But Paul allowed nothing to hinder him from his work (Letter 107, 1904).

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

Five times I received from the Jews forty stripes save one - Which was the utmost that the law allowed. With the Romans he sometimes pleaded his privilege as a Roman; but from the Jews he suffered all things.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

From the Jews.It is certain that the Jews had at that time been deprived of jurisdiction, but as this was a kind of moderate punishment (as they termed it) it is probable that it was allowed them. Now the law of God was to this effect, that those who did not deserve capital punishment should be beaten in the presence of a judge, (Deuteronomy 25:2, 3,) provided not more thanforty stripes were inflicted, lest the body should be disfigured or mutilated by cruelty. Now it is probable, that in process of time it became customary to stop at the thirty-ninth lash,lest perhaps they should on any occasion, from undue warmth, exceed the number prescribed by God. Many such precautions,prescribed by the Rabbins,are to be found among the Jews, which make some restriction upon the permission that the Lord had given. Hence, perhaps, in process of time, (as things generally deteriorate,) they came to think, that all criminals should be beaten with stripes to that number, though the Lord did not prescribe, how far severity should go, but where it was to stop; unless perhaps you prefer to receive what is stated by others, that they exercised greater cruelty upon Paul. This is not at all improbable, for if they had been accustomed ordinarily to practice this severity upon all, he might have said that he was beaten according to custom. Hence the statement of the number is expressive of extreme severity.

McArther Bible Commentary

forty stripes minus one. Deu 25:1-3 set forty as the maximum number that could legally be administered; in Paul's day the Jews reduced that number by one to avoid accidentally going over the maximum. Jesus warned that His followers would receive such beatings (Mat 10:17).

Bible Cross References

Deuteronomy 25:3 Luke 12:47

Verse 25

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

He gives an account of his labours, cares, sufferings, dangers, and deliverances.

The apostle gives an account of his labours and sufferings; not out of pride or vain-glory, but to the honour of God, who enabled him to do and suffer so much for the cause of Christ; and shows wherein he excelled the false apostles, who tried to lessen his character and usefulness. It astonishes us to reflect on this account of his dangers, hardships, and sufferings, and to observe his patience, perseverance, diligence, cheerfulness, and usefulness, in the midst of all these trials. See what little reason we have to love the pomp and plenty of this world, when this blessed apostle felt so much hardship in it. Our utmost diligence and services appear unworthy of notice when compared with his, and our difficulties and trials scarcely can be perceived. It may well lead us to inquire whether or not we really are followers of Christ. Here we may study patience, courage, and firm trust in God. Here we may learn to think less of ourselves; and we should ever strictly keep to truth, as in God's presence; and should refer all to his glory, as the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is blessed for evermore.

EGW SDA Bible Commentary

Paul's Indomitable Courage

—Gain courage from the experience of the apostle Paul. He had many trials. He was an unwearied worker, and traveled constantly, sometimes through inhospitable regions, sometimes on the water, in storm and tempest. Far harder than ours was his lot, for traveling then had not the conveniences that it has now. But Paul allowed nothing to hinder him from his work (Letter 107, 1904).

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

Thrice I have been shipwrecked - Before his voyage to Rome. In the deep - Probably floating on some part of the vessel.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

Thrice was I beaten with rodsHence it appears, that the Apostle suffered many things, of which no mention is made by Luke; for he makes mention of onlyonestoning,one scourging, andone shipwreck. We have not, however, a complete narrative, nor is there mention made in it of every particular that occurred, but only of the principal things.

McArther Bible Commentary

beaten with rods. Refers to Roman beatings with flexible sticks tied together (cf. Act 16:22-23). once I was stoned. At Lystra (Act 14:19-20). three times I was shipwrecked. Not including the shipwreck on his journey as a prisoner to Rome (Acts 27), which had not yet taken place. Paul had been on several sea voyages up to this time (cf. Act 9:30; Act 11:25-26; Act 13:4, Act 13:13; Act 14:25-26; Act 16:11; Act 17:14-15; Act 18:18, Act 18:21), giving ample opportunity for the three shipwrecks to have occurred. a night and a day I have been in the deep. At least one of the shipwrecks was so severe that Paul spent an entire day floating on the wreckage, waiting to be rescued.

Bible Cross References

Matthew 20:19 Acts 14:19 Acts 16:22 1 Timothy 1:19

Verse 26

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

He gives an account of his labours, cares, sufferings, dangers, and deliverances.

The apostle gives an account of his labours and sufferings; not out of pride or vain-glory, but to the honour of God, who enabled him to do and suffer so much for the cause of Christ; and shows wherein he excelled the false apostles, who tried to lessen his character and usefulness. It astonishes us to reflect on this account of his dangers, hardships, and sufferings, and to observe his patience, perseverance, diligence, cheerfulness, and usefulness, in the midst of all these trials. See what little reason we have to love the pomp and plenty of this world, when this blessed apostle felt so much hardship in it. Our utmost diligence and services appear unworthy of notice when compared with his, and our difficulties and trials scarcely can be perceived. It may well lead us to inquire whether or not we really are followers of Christ. Here we may study patience, courage, and firm trust in God. Here we may learn to think less of ourselves; and we should ever strictly keep to truth, as in God's presence; and should refer all to his glory, as the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is blessed for evermore.

EGW SDA Bible Commentary

Paul's Indomitable Courage

—Gain courage from the experience of the apostle Paul. He had many trials. He was an unwearied worker, and traveled constantly, sometimes through inhospitable regions, sometimes on the water, in storm and tempest. Far harder than ours was his lot, for traveling then had not the conveniences that it has now. But Paul allowed nothing to hinder him from his work (Letter 107, 1904).

John Calvin Bible Commentary

By perils from the nationhe means those that befell him from his own nation, in consequence of the hatred, that was kindled against him among all the Jews. On the other hand, he had the Gentiles as his adversaries; and in thethird place snares were laid for himby false brethren. Thus it happened, thatfor Christ’s name’s sake he was hated by all. (Matthew 10:22.)

McArther Bible Commentary

in perils. Those connected with Paul's frequent travels. "Waters" (rivers) and "robbers" posed a serious danger to travelers in the ancient world. Paul's journey from Perga to Pisidian Antioch (Act 13:14), for example, required him to travel through the robber-infested Taurus Mountains, and to cross two dangerous, flood-prone rivers. Paul was frequently in danger from his "own countrymen" (Act 9:23, Act 9:29; Act 13:45; Act 14:2, Act 14:19; Act 17:5; Act 18:6, Act 18:12-16; Act 20:3, Act 20:19; Act 21:27-32) and, less often, from "Gentiles" (Act 16:16-40; Act. 19:23-20:1).

Bible Cross References

Acts 9:23 Acts 13:45 Acts 13:50 Acts 14:5 Acts 14:19 Acts 17:5 Acts 17:13 Acts 18:12 Acts 19:23 Acts 20:3 Acts 20:19 Acts 21:27 Acts 21:31 Acts 23:10 Acts 23:12 Acts 25:3 Acts 27:42 Romans 8:35 1 Corinthians 15:30 Galatians 2:4

Verse 27

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

He gives an account of his labours, cares, sufferings, dangers, and deliverances.

The apostle gives an account of his labours and sufferings; not out of pride or vain-glory, but to the honour of God, who enabled him to do and suffer so much for the cause of Christ; and shows wherein he excelled the false apostles, who tried to lessen his character and usefulness. It astonishes us to reflect on this account of his dangers, hardships, and sufferings, and to observe his patience, perseverance, diligence, cheerfulness, and usefulness, in the midst of all these trials. See what little reason we have to love the pomp and plenty of this world, when this blessed apostle felt so much hardship in it. Our utmost diligence and services appear unworthy of notice when compared with his, and our difficulties and trials scarcely can be perceived. It may well lead us to inquire whether or not we really are followers of Christ. Here we may study patience, courage, and firm trust in God. Here we may learn to think less of ourselves; and we should ever strictly keep to truth, as in God's presence; and should refer all to his glory, as the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is blessed for evermore.

EGW SDA Bible Commentary

Paul's Indomitable Courage

—Gain courage from the experience of the apostle Paul. He had many trials. He was an unwearied worker, and traveled constantly, sometimes through inhospitable regions, sometimes on the water, in storm and tempest. Far harder than ours was his lot, for traveling then had not the conveniences that it has now. But Paul allowed nothing to hinder him from his work (Letter 107, 1904).

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

In cold and nakedness - Having no place where to lay my head; no convenient raiment to cover me; yet appearing before noble - men, governors, kings; and not being ashamed.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

By fastings I understand those that are voluntary, as he has spoken previously of hunger andwant. Such were the tokens by which he showed himself, and on good grounds, to be an eminent servant of Christ. For how may we better distinguish Christ’s servants than by proofs so numerous, so various, and so important? On the other hand, while those effeminate boastershad done nothing for Christ, and had suffered nothing for him, they, nevertheless, impudently vaunted.It is asked, however, whether any one can be a servant of Christ, that has not been tried with so many evils, perils, and vexations? I answer, that all these things are not indispensably requisite on the part of all; but where these things are seen, there is, undoubtedly, a greater and more illustrious testimony afforded. That man, therefore, who will be signalized by so many marks of distinction, will not despise those that are less illustrious, and less thoroughly tried, nor will he on that account be elated with pride; but still, whenever there is occasion for it, he will be prepared, after Paul’s example, to exult with a holy triumph, in opposition to pretendersand worthless persons, provided he has an eye to Christ, not to himself — for nothing but pride or ambition could corrupt and tarnish all these praises. For the main thing is — that we serve Christ with a pureconscience. All other things are, as it were, additional.

Bible Cross References

1 Corinthians 4:11 2 Corinthians 6:5 Philippians 4:12 1 Thessalonians 2:9 2 Thessalonians 3:8

Verse 28

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

He gives an account of his labours, cares, sufferings, dangers, and deliverances.

The apostle gives an account of his labours and sufferings; not out of pride or vain-glory, but to the honour of God, who enabled him to do and suffer so much for the cause of Christ; and shows wherein he excelled the false apostles, who tried to lessen his character and usefulness. It astonishes us to reflect on this account of his dangers, hardships, and sufferings, and to observe his patience, perseverance, diligence, cheerfulness, and usefulness, in the midst of all these trials. See what little reason we have to love the pomp and plenty of this world, when this blessed apostle felt so much hardship in it. Our utmost diligence and services appear unworthy of notice when compared with his, and our difficulties and trials scarcely can be perceived. It may well lead us to inquire whether or not we really are followers of Christ. Here we may study patience, courage, and firm trust in God. Here we may learn to think less of ourselves; and we should ever strictly keep to truth, as in God's presence; and should refer all to his glory, as the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is blessed for evermore.

EGW SDA Bible Commentary

Paul's Indomitable Courage

—Gain courage from the experience of the apostle Paul. He had many trials. He was an unwearied worker, and traveled constantly, sometimes through inhospitable regions, sometimes on the water, in storm and tempest. Far harder than ours was his lot, for traveling then had not the conveniences that it has now. But Paul allowed nothing to hinder him from his work (Letter 107, 1904).

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

Beside the things which are from without - Which I suffer on the account of others; namely, the care of all the churches - A more modest expression than if he had said, the care of the whole church. All - Even those I have not seen in the flesh. St. Peter himself could not have said this in so strong a sense.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

Besides those things that are without“Besides those things,” says he, “which come upon me from all sides, and are as it were extraordinary, what estimate must be formed of that ordinary burden that constantly presses upon me — the care that I have of all the Churches.”The care of all the Churcheshe appropriately calls hisordinary burden. For I have taken the liberty of renderingἐπισύστασιν in this way, as it sometimes means — whateverpresses upon us.Whoever is concerned in good earnest as to the Church of God, stirs up himself and bears a heavy burden, which presses upon his shoulders. What a picture we have here of a complete minister, embracing in his anxieties and aims not one Church merely, or ten, or thirty, but all of them together, so that he instructs some, confirms others, exhorts others, gives counsel to some, and applies a remedy to the diseases of others! Now from Paul’s words we may infer, that no one can have a heartfelt concern for the Churches, without being harassed with many difficulties; for the government of the Church is no pleasant occupation, in which we may exercise ourselves agreeably and with delight of heart,but a hard and severe warfare, as has been previously mentioned, (2 Corinthians 10:4,) — Satan from time to time giving us as much trouble as he can, and leaving no stone unturned to annoy us.

McArther Bible Commentary

Far worse than the occasional physical suffering Paul endured was the constant, daily burden of concern for the churches that he felt. Those who were "weak" (cf. Rom. 14; 1 Cor. 8) in faith, or were "made to stumble" into sin caused him intense emotional pain. Cf. 1Th 5:14.

Bible Cross References

Acts 9:31 1 Corinthians 7:17

Verse 29

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

He gives an account of his labours, cares, sufferings, dangers, and deliverances.

The apostle gives an account of his labours and sufferings; not out of pride or vain-glory, but to the honour of God, who enabled him to do and suffer so much for the cause of Christ; and shows wherein he excelled the false apostles, who tried to lessen his character and usefulness. It astonishes us to reflect on this account of his dangers, hardships, and sufferings, and to observe his patience, perseverance, diligence, cheerfulness, and usefulness, in the midst of all these trials. See what little reason we have to love the pomp and plenty of this world, when this blessed apostle felt so much hardship in it. Our utmost diligence and services appear unworthy of notice when compared with his, and our difficulties and trials scarcely can be perceived. It may well lead us to inquire whether or not we really are followers of Christ. Here we may study patience, courage, and firm trust in God. Here we may learn to think less of ourselves; and we should ever strictly keep to truth, as in God's presence; and should refer all to his glory, as the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is blessed for evermore.

EGW SDA Bible Commentary

Paul's Indomitable Courage

—Gain courage from the experience of the apostle Paul. He had many trials. He was an unwearied worker, and traveled constantly, sometimes through inhospitable regions, sometimes on the water, in storm and tempest. Far harder than ours was his lot, for traveling then had not the conveniences that it has now. But Paul allowed nothing to hinder him from his work (Letter 107, 1904).

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

Who - So he had not only the care of the churches, but of every person therein. Is weak, and I am not weak - By sympathy, as well as by condescension. Who is offended - Hindered in, or turned out of, the good way. And I burn not - Being pained as though I had fire in my bosom.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

Who is weak.How many there are that allow all offenses to pass by unheeded — who either despise the infirmities of brethren, or trample them under foot! This, however, arises from their having no concern for the Church. For concern, undoubtedly, producesσυμπάθειαν (sympathy,)which leads the Minister of Christ to participate in the feelings of all,and put himself in the place of all, that he may suit himself to all.

Bible Cross References

Matthew 11:6 1 Corinthians 8:9 1 Corinthians 8:13 1 Corinthians 9:22

Verse 30

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

He gives an account of his labours, cares, sufferings, dangers, and deliverances.

The apostle gives an account of his labours and sufferings; not out of pride or vain-glory, but to the honour of God, who enabled him to do and suffer so much for the cause of Christ; and shows wherein he excelled the false apostles, who tried to lessen his character and usefulness. It astonishes us to reflect on this account of his dangers, hardships, and sufferings, and to observe his patience, perseverance, diligence, cheerfulness, and usefulness, in the midst of all these trials. See what little reason we have to love the pomp and plenty of this world, when this blessed apostle felt so much hardship in it. Our utmost diligence and services appear unworthy of notice when compared with his, and our difficulties and trials scarcely can be perceived. It may well lead us to inquire whether or not we really are followers of Christ. Here we may study patience, courage, and firm trust in God. Here we may learn to think less of ourselves; and we should ever strictly keep to truth, as in God's presence; and should refer all to his glory, as the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is blessed for evermore.

EGW SDA Bible Commentary

Paul's Indomitable Courage

—Gain courage from the experience of the apostle Paul. He had many trials. He was an unwearied worker, and traveled constantly, sometimes through inhospitable regions, sometimes on the water, in storm and tempest. Far harder than ours was his lot, for traveling then had not the conveniences that it has now. But Paul allowed nothing to hinder him from his work (Letter 107, 1904).

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

I will glory of the things that concern my infirmities - Of what shows my weakness, rather than my strength.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

If he must glory.Here we have the conclusion, drawn from all that has gone before — that Paul is more inclined to boast of those things that are connected with hisinfirmity, that is, those things which might, in the view of the world, bring him contempt, rather than glory, as, for example, hunger, thirst, imprisonments, stonings, stripes, and the like — those things, in truth, that we are usually as much ashamed of, as of things that incur great dishonor.

McArther Bible Commentary

I will boast … my infirmity. To do so magnified God's power at work in him (cf. 2Co 4:7; Col 1:29; 2Ti 2:20-21).

Bible Cross References

Matthew 4:23 1 Corinthians 2:3

Verse 31

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

He gives an account of his labours, cares, sufferings, dangers, and deliverances.

The apostle gives an account of his labours and sufferings; not out of pride or vain-glory, but to the honour of God, who enabled him to do and suffer so much for the cause of Christ; and shows wherein he excelled the false apostles, who tried to lessen his character and usefulness. It astonishes us to reflect on this account of his dangers, hardships, and sufferings, and to observe his patience, perseverance, diligence, cheerfulness, and usefulness, in the midst of all these trials. See what little reason we have to love the pomp and plenty of this world, when this blessed apostle felt so much hardship in it. Our utmost diligence and services appear unworthy of notice when compared with his, and our difficulties and trials scarcely can be perceived. It may well lead us to inquire whether or not we really are followers of Christ. Here we may study patience, courage, and firm trust in God. Here we may learn to think less of ourselves; and we should ever strictly keep to truth, as in God's presence; and should refer all to his glory, as the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is blessed for evermore.

John Calvin Bible Commentary

The God and FatherAs he was about to relate a singular feat,which, at the same time, was not well known, he confirms it by making use of an oath. Observe, however, what is the form of a pious oath,— when, for the purpose of declaring the truth, we reverently call God as our witness. Now this persecution was, as it were, Paul’s first apprenticeship,as appears from Luke, (Acts 9:23-25); but if, while yet a raw recruit, he was exercised in such beginnings, what shall we think of him, when a veteran soldier? As, however, flight gives no evidence of a valiant spirit, it may be asked, why it is that he makes mention of his flight? I answer, that the gates of the royal city having been closed, clearly showed with what rage the wicked were inflamed against him; and it was on no light grounds that they had been led to entertain such a feeling,for if Paul had not fought for Christ with a new and unusual activity, the wicked would never have been thrown into such a commotion. His singular perseverance, however, shone forth chiefly in this — that, after escaping from so severe a persecution, he did not cease to stir up the whole world against him, by prosecuting fearlessly the Lord’s work.It may be, however, that he proceeds to mock those ambitious men, who, while they had never had experience of any thing but applauses, favors, honorable salutations, and agreeable lodgings, wished to be held in the highest esteem. For, in opposition to this, he relates, that he was shut in, so that he could with difficulty save his life by a miserable and ignominious flight. Some, however, ask, whether it was lawful for Paul to leap over the walls, inasmuch as it was a capital crime to do so? I answer, in the first place, that it is not certain, whether that punishment was sanctioned by law in the East; and farther, that even if it was so, Paul, nevertheless, was guilty of no crime, because he did not do this as an enemy, or for sport, but from necessity. For the law would not punish a man, that would throw himself down from the walls to save his life from the flames; and what difference is there between a fire, and a fierce attack from robbers? We must always, in connection with laws, have an eye to reason and equity. This consideration will exempt Paul entirely from blame.

McArther Bible Commentary

Realizing how incredible the list of his sufferings must have seemed, Paul called on God to witness that he was telling the truth (cf. 2Co 11:10; 2Co 1:23; Rom 1:9; Rom 9:1; Gal 1:20; 1Th 2:5, 1Th 2:10; 1Ti 2:7)-that these things really happened.

Bible Cross References

Romans 1:25 2 Corinthians 11:11 Galatians 1:20

Verse 32

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

He gives an account of his labours, cares, sufferings, dangers, and deliverances.

The apostle gives an account of his labours and sufferings; not out of pride or vain-glory, but to the honour of God, who enabled him to do and suffer so much for the cause of Christ; and shows wherein he excelled the false apostles, who tried to lessen his character and usefulness. It astonishes us to reflect on this account of his dangers, hardships, and sufferings, and to observe his patience, perseverance, diligence, cheerfulness, and usefulness, in the midst of all these trials. See what little reason we have to love the pomp and plenty of this world, when this blessed apostle felt so much hardship in it. Our utmost diligence and services appear unworthy of notice when compared with his, and our difficulties and trials scarcely can be perceived. It may well lead us to inquire whether or not we really are followers of Christ. Here we may study patience, courage, and firm trust in God. Here we may learn to think less of ourselves; and we should ever strictly keep to truth, as in God's presence; and should refer all to his glory, as the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is blessed for evermore.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

The governor under Aretas - King of Arabia and Syria of which Damascus was a chief city, willing to oblige the Jews, kept the city - Setting guards at all the gates day and night.

McArther Bible Commentary

Paul related his humiliating escape from Damascus (cf. Act 9:23-25) as the crowning example of the weakness and infirmity in which he boasted (2Co 11:30). The Acts narrative names the hostile Jews as those who sought Paul's life, whereas Paul here mentioned the governor under the Nabatean Arab king Aretas (9 B.C.-A.D. 40) as the one who sought him. Evidently, the Jews stirred up the secular authorities against him, as they were later to do repeatedly in Acts (cf. Act 13:50; Act 14:2; Act 17:13).

Bible Cross References

Acts 9:2 Acts 9:8 Acts 9:10 Acts 9:24

Verse 33

Matthew Henry's Concise Bible Commentary

He gives an account of his labours, cares, sufferings, dangers, and deliverances.

The apostle gives an account of his labours and sufferings; not out of pride or vain-glory, but to the honour of God, who enabled him to do and suffer so much for the cause of Christ; and shows wherein he excelled the false apostles, who tried to lessen his character and usefulness. It astonishes us to reflect on this account of his dangers, hardships, and sufferings, and to observe his patience, perseverance, diligence, cheerfulness, and usefulness, in the midst of all these trials. See what little reason we have to love the pomp and plenty of this world, when this blessed apostle felt so much hardship in it. Our utmost diligence and services appear unworthy of notice when compared with his, and our difficulties and trials scarcely can be perceived. It may well lead us to inquire whether or not we really are followers of Christ. Here we may study patience, courage, and firm trust in God. Here we may learn to think less of ourselves; and we should ever strictly keep to truth, as in God's presence; and should refer all to his glory, as the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is blessed for evermore.

John Wesley's Bible Commentary

Through a window - Of an house which stood on the city wall.

Bible Cross References

1 Samuel 19:12 Psalm 124:7 Acts 9:25