10 2 He showeth with what confidence, 4 with what weapons, 6 and with what revenge he is armed against the cavillations of the wicked,  7 and that, when he is present, his deeds have no less power, 11 than his words have force when he is absent. 

Now [a]I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness, and [b]gentleness of Christ, which when I am present among you am base, but am bold toward you being absent:

And this I require you, that I need not to be bold when I am present, with that same confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which esteem us as though we walked [c]according to the flesh.

[d]Nevertheless, though we walk in the flesh, yet we do not war after the flesh.

Read full chapter

Footnotes

  1. 2 Corinthians 10:1 He returneth to the defense of his Apostleship, but so that he useth this authority therein: for he warneth them earnestly and gravely, using also terrible threatenings to show themselves such as are apt to be instructed. And he refelleth certain proud men which made no better accompt of him, than of a bragging Thraso, in that he used to be sharp against them when he was absent, because they saw no great majesty in him after the manner of men, and besides, had proved his lenity, notwithstanding that in his absence, he had written to them sharply. Therefore first of all he professeth that he was gentle and moderate, but after the example of Christ: but if they continue, still to despise his gentleness, he protesteth unto them that he will show indeed how far they are deceived, which make that accompt of the office of an Apostle, that they do of worldly offices, that is, according to the outward appearance.
  2. 2 Corinthians 10:1 That nature which is inclined to mercy, rather than to rigor of justice.
  3. 2 Corinthians 10:2 As though I had no other aid and help than that which outwardly I seem to have: and therefore Paul setteth his flesh, that is, his weak condition and state, against his spiritual and Apostolic dignity.
  4. 2 Corinthians 10:3 Secondly he witnesseth, that although he be like unto other men, yet he cometh furnished with that strength, which no holds of man can match, whether they resist by craft and deceit, or by force and might, because he warrioreth with divine weapons.

Bible Gateway Recommends