It is apparent that some of Paul’s opposition were suggesting, or would have suggested he pretentiously recommended himself. To the contrary, Paul said later, “For not he who commends himself is approved, but whom the Lord commends” (10:18). Any commendation of the apostles that Paul brought forth ultimately came from God. Also, it is apparent …
Continue reading 2 Corinthians 3:1-3
The enemies of Paul in Corinth waged war with carnal weapons. They boasted in the flesh of things which actually presented them as foolish. Yet, the Corinthians put up with their folly, and were being deceived by their false doctrine (11:3-4). In order to shock the Corinthians back to normalcy, Paul stooped to reluctant boasting. …
Continue reading 2 Corinthians 11:16-21In following his thoughts about the temporary nature of life, Paul mentions how that should cause one to act. In Paul’s ministry he made it his aim to please God. This is a fundamental aspect of Christianity. We should always question whether our actions will be pleasing to God before doing them. In all of …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:9-11Paul begins his second letter to the church at Corinth with an affirmation of his apostleship. This statement was necessary because of the claim that his writing was inspired (cf. 1 Corinthians 2:10). This is a recurring introduction of Paul’s seen in his other epistles (cf. 1 Corinthians 1:1; Ephesians 1:1; Colossians 1:1; 1 and …
Continue reading Pondering Scripture: 2 Corinthians 1:1-2