Paul’s Authority: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on 2 Corinthians 10

Executive Summary

2 Corinthians 10 is a powerful defense of Paul’s apostolic authority against those who sought to undermine his ministry in Corinth. He addresses accusations that he was weak and timid in person but bold and forceful in his letters. Paul asserts his right to exercise spiritual discipline when necessary, but emphasizes his desire to build up, not tear down, the Corinthian church. This chapter reveals the tension between humility and righteous assertiveness, a delicate balance for all leaders, especially within the Church. Paul’s boasting is not in himself, but in the Lord and the work He has entrusted to him. Paul’s Authority is a gift from God, used for the edification of believers, and should be wielded with love, wisdom, and discernment. The chapter serves as a timeless reminder to discern true spiritual authority from false pretenses and to submit to those whom God has placed in positions of leadership within the Church.

This passage speaks directly to the challenges of leadership and accountability within the Church. It highlights the importance of discerning true spiritual authority amidst the noise of criticism and false accusation. Let us delve into the rich theological and spiritual depths of 2 Corinthians 10, drawing from the wisdom of the Holy Fathers and the continuous living tradition of the Coptic Orthodox Church, and find some great web design to share our message.

Commentary Sections

2 Corinthians 10:1 (KJV): Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence am base among you, but being absent am bold toward you:

2 Corinthians 10:1 (NKJV): Now I, Paul, myself am pleading with you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ—who in presence am lowly among you, but being absent am bold toward you:

The Greek text (Nestle 1904): Παρακαλῶ δὲ ὑμᾶς ἐγὼ ὁ Παῦλος διὰ τῆς πραΰτητος καὶ ἐπιεικείας τοῦ Χριστοῦ, ὅς κατὰ πρόσωπον μὲν ταπεινὸς ἐν ὑμῖν, ἀπὼν δὲ θαρρῶ εἰς ὑμᾶς.

Here, Paul directly addresses the Corinthians, appealing to them through the “meekness and gentleness of Christ.” This is significant. He isn’t commanding or threatening but imploring. The accusation he addresses – that he is “lowly” in person but “bold” in writing – is a common critique of leaders. Think of the urban context of Corinth, a bustling port city where image and outward appearance mattered greatly. Paul’s perceived lack of outward charisma was a stumbling block for some.

St. Athanasius speaks of Christ’s meekness as a manifestation of His divinity. “Διὰ τῆς πραΰτητος αὐτοῦ, τὴν θεότητα ἐπεδείκνυτο” (“Through His meekness, He revealed His divinity”) (Athanasius, *Contra Arianos*, 3.56). We too, should strive for this Christ-like meekness, especially in our interactions with others. How often do we prioritize our own ego over genuine humility? Let us pray for the grace to reflect the meekness of Christ in our daily lives.

• Spiritual Application: Examine your own behavior. Are you different in person than in your online interactions or written communications? Strive for consistency and authenticity, reflecting the character of Christ at all times.

2 Corinthians 10:2 (KJV): But I beseech you, that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh.

2 Corinthians 10:2 (NKJV): But I beg you that when I am present, I may not be bold with that confidence by which I intend to be bold against some, who think of us as if we walk according to the flesh.

Paul is expressing a desire to avoid exercising harsh discipline. He recognizes that some within the Corinthian church perceive him as acting “according to the flesh” – meaning motivated by selfish ambition or worldly power. This is a serious accusation, questioning the very foundation of his ministry.

The Desert Fathers often warned against judging others according to outward appearances. Abba Poemen said, “Μὴ κρίνετε τὸν πλησίον σου, καὶ οὐ μὴ κριθῆτε” (“Do not judge your neighbor, and you will not be judged”) (Apophthegmata Patrum, Poemen 1). Paul understood that his actions would be scrutinized, and he longed for unity and reconciliation, not further division. He’s not afraid to use his authority, but prefers to avoid the need for it through their repentance and correction.

• Spiritual Application: Consider how you perceive those in positions of authority. Are you quick to judge their motives? Pray for discernment and a willingness to give the benefit of the doubt, remembering that even leaders are fallible human beings.

2 Corinthians 10:3-4 (KJV): For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)

2 Corinthians 10:3-4 (NKJV): For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds,

Here, Paul clarifies a crucial distinction: while he lives in the physical world (“walk in the flesh”), his battle is not a physical one. His “weapons” are not worldly, but “mighty in God.” These “strongholds” represent false doctrines, pride, and other spiritual obstacles that hinder the Gospel. This imagery suggests a battle against ideologies and beliefs, not physical foes.

St. Cyril of Alexandria highlights the divine power inherent in spiritual warfare: “Οὐ γὰρ ἔστιν ἡμῖν ἡ πάλη πρὸς αἷμα καὶ σάρκα, ἀλλὰ πρὸς τὰς ἀρχὰς καὶ τὰς ἐξουσίας” (“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers”) (Cyril of Alexandria, *Commentary on Ephesians* 6:12). This echoes Ephesians 6:12 and reminds us that the true enemy is spiritual, not physical.

• Spiritual Application: Identify the “strongholds” in your own life – the patterns of thought, the sinful habits, the negative influences – that prevent you from fully embracing Christ. Arm yourself with the spiritual weapons of prayer, Scripture, fasting, and the sacraments.

2 Corinthians 10:5 (KJV): Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

2 Corinthians 10:5 (NKJV): casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ,

This verse emphasizes the importance of intellectual and spiritual humility. Any “imagination” or “high thing” that opposes the knowledge of God must be “cast down” and brought into obedience to Christ. This isn’t about suppressing thought, but about subjecting all thinking to the Lordship of Christ. This is akin to intellectual watchfulness, ensuring our thoughts are in alignment with God’s truth.

St. Macarius the Great describes the constant vigilance required to guard our hearts and minds: “Δεῖ ἡμᾶς ἀγρυπνεῖν, ἵνα μὴ ὁ νοῦς ἡμῶν ἀπὸ τοῦ Θεοῦ μετακινηθῇ” (“We must be watchful, lest our mind be moved away from God”) (Macarius the Great, *Homilies*, 15.21). This highlights the need for ongoing self-examination and repentance.

• Spiritual Application: Practice mindful awareness of your thoughts. When a thought arises that contradicts Scripture or leads you away from Christ, consciously reject it and replace it with a truth from God’s Word.

2 Corinthians 10:6 (KJV): And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.

2 Corinthians 10:6 (NKJV): and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is complete.

Paul states his readiness to “punish all disobedience” *after* the Corinthians’ obedience is complete. This is a conditional statement. His desire is not to inflict punishment, but to see the Corinthian church restored to unity and obedience. The “revenge” he speaks of is not personal vengeance, but the exercise of righteous discipline within the church. This verse highlights the purpose of church discipline: restoration and reconciliation.

St. Basil the Great outlines the importance of church discipline in maintaining the integrity of the community: “Ἡ διόρθωσις τῶν πλημμελημάτων εἰς ὠφέλειαν γίνεται τῶν ἐξαμαρτανόντων” (“The correction of offenses is for the benefit of those who sin”) (Basil the Great, *Longer Rules*, 48). This reflects a pastoral concern for the spiritual well-being of the erring member.

• Spiritual Application: Recognize the importance of accountability within the church. Be willing to both give and receive correction in a spirit of love and humility, knowing that it is ultimately for your spiritual growth and the health of the community.

2 Corinthians 10:7 (KJV): Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? If any man trust to himself that he is Christ’s, let him of himself think this again, that, as he is Christ’s, even so are we Christ’s.

2 Corinthians 10:7 (NKJV): Do you look at things according to the outward appearance? If anyone is confident that he is Christ’s, let him consider this again in himself, that just as he is Christ’s, even so we are Christ’s.

Paul challenges the Corinthians’ tendency to judge based on “outward appearance.” He reminds them that true belonging to Christ is not determined by outward show or self-proclaimed status. He asserts his own equal standing as an apostle of Christ. He is essentially saying, “If you claim to belong to Christ, recognize that I also belong to Christ, and my authority comes from Him.”

St. Gregory of Nyssa warns against the dangers of superficiality in spiritual matters: “Μὴ τὸ φαινόμενον, ἀλλὰ τὴν ἀλήθειαν ζήτει” (“Seek not the appearance, but the truth”) (Gregory of Nyssa, *On Perfection*). This encourages us to look beyond outward displays of piety and seek genuine transformation of the heart.

• Spiritual Application: Cultivate a discerning eye, looking beyond outward appearances and focusing on the genuine fruits of the Spirit in yourself and others. Resist the temptation to judge based on superficial criteria.

2 Corinthians 10:8 (KJV): For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I shall be ashamed:

2 Corinthians 10:8 (NKJV): For even if I should boast somewhat more about our authority, which the Lord gave us for edification and not for your destruction, I shall not be ashamed—

Paul acknowledges that he *could* boast more about his authority, but he refrains from doing so excessively. He emphasizes that his authority is a gift from God, given for “edification” (building up), not “destruction.” This is a crucial principle for all leaders: authority is meant to serve, not to dominate.

St. John Chrysostom underscores the responsibility that comes with authority: “Ἡ ἐξουσία δέδοται πρὸς οἰκοδομήν, οὐ πρὸς καταστροφήν” (“Authority is given for building up, not for destruction”) (John Chrysostom, *Homilies on Ephesians*, 11.3). This highlights the ethical dimension of leadership.

• Spiritual Application: Reflect on how you exercise authority in your own life, whether in your family, workplace, or community. Are you using your influence to build up others, or to tear them down? Seek to be a servant leader, following the example of Christ.

2 Corinthians 10:9-11 (KJV): That I may not seem as if I would terrify you by letters. For his letters, say they, are weighty and powerful; but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible. Let such an one think this, that, such as we are in word by letters when we are absent, such will we be also in deed when we are present.

2 Corinthians 10:9-11 (NKJV): lest I seem to terrify you by letters. “For his letters,” they say, “are weighty and powerful, but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible.” Let such a person consider this, that what we are in word by letters when we are absent, we will also be in deed when we are present.

Paul anticipates the accusation that he only threatens through his letters, but in person, he is weak and unimpressive. He directly addresses this critique, affirming that his actions will match his words. He will not be a “paper tiger.” He is willing to back up his words with action if necessary.

This passage echoes the importance of integrity, aligning one’s words with one’s deeds. The Coptic tradition highly values actions that are rooted in faith. Let your yes be yes and your no be no. Authenticity is highly regarded in our faith. Living a life that reflects the message we preach.

• Spiritual Application: Consider the consistency between your words and your actions. Do your deeds reflect the values you profess? Strive for integrity in all areas of your life, knowing that your actions speak louder than words.

2 Corinthians 10:12-18 (KJV): For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise. But we will not boast of things without our measure, but according to the measure of the rule which God hath distributed to us, a measure to reach even unto you. For we stretch not ourselves beyond our measure, as though we reached not unto you: for we are come as far as to you also in preaching the gospel of Christ: Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men’s labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly, To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man’s line of things made ready to our hand. But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.

2 Corinthians 10:12-18 (NKJV): For we dare not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise. We, however, will not boast beyond measure, but within the limits of the sphere which God appointed us, a sphere which especially includes you. For we are not overextending ourselves (as though our authority did not extend to you), for it was to you that we came with the gospel of Christ; not boasting of things beyond measure, that is, in other men’s labors, but having hope that as your faith is increased, we shall be greatly enlarged by you in our sphere, to preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man’s sphere of accomplishment. “But he who glories, let him glory in the Lord.” For not he who commends himself is approved, but whom the Lord commends.

This final section sharply contrasts Paul’s approach with that of his critics. He refuses to engage in self-promotion or compare himself favorably with others. He recognizes that true validation comes not from self-commendation, but from God. His boasting is limited to the “measure” that God has assigned to him – the specific area of ministry entrusted to him. Paul emphasizes the importance of humility and submission to God’s will.

The apostle emphasizes the critical reminder that God is the source of all glory. He who glories, let him glory in the Lord. It also highlights the importance of recognizing one’s limits and the gifts the Lord has given to them. We should not become prideful and compare ourselves to others but, instead, we should use our gifts to glorify the Lord.

Abba Antony said, “Πάντα ποιοῦντες ἐν τῇ δόξῃ τοῦ Θεοῦ, εὑρήσομεν ἔλεος παρ’ αὐτοῦ” (“Doing all things in the glory of God, we shall find mercy from Him”) (Apophthegmata Patrum, Antony 1). True glory comes from glorifying God in all that we do. Pride is the root of all sin, therefore, one should always strive to live a humble life.

• Spiritual Application: Guard against the temptation to compare yourself with others. Focus on fulfilling the calling that God has placed on your life, using your gifts and talents to serve Him faithfully. Seek God’s approval above the approval of others. Let your boasting be in the Lord alone.

Subtopic Sections

Here are some key reflections from 2 Corinthians 10:

• The Tension of Authority: Balancing assertiveness with humility is a constant challenge for leaders. Paul demonstrates how to defend one’s authority without succumbing to arrogance.
• Spiritual Warfare: Our battle is not against people, but against spiritual forces. We must use spiritual weapons, not worldly ones, to overcome the enemy.
• Thought Life: Capturing every thought and subjecting it to the obedience of Christ is essential for spiritual growth.
• The Purpose of Discipline: Church discipline should be restorative, not punitive. The goal is always reconciliation and spiritual healing.
• True Validation: Ultimately, our worth and approval come from God, not from human praise or self-commendation.
• Living a life of Integrity: One’s words should be aligned with their deeds, authenticity is key to living a life in faith.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about the significance of 2 Corinthians 10:

• Q: Why does Paul defend his authority so vigorously?
  A: Paul defends his authority because it is essential for the integrity of the Gospel message and the health of the church. His opponents were undermining his ministry and leading the Corinthians astray.
• Q: What does it mean to “walk in the flesh” versus “war according to the flesh?”
  A: “Walking in the flesh” refers to living in the physical world, while “warring according to the flesh” means using worldly methods, such as manipulation or coercion, to achieve spiritual goals. Paul insists that he relies on the power of God, not human strategies.
• Q: How can we apply the principle of “bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ” in our daily lives?
  A: We can practice this by becoming more aware of our thoughts and consciously challenging those that are contrary to Scripture. We can also cultivate a habit of prayer and meditation on God’s Word, allowing it to shape our thinking.
• Q: What is the proper role of church discipline, according to this passage?
  A: Church discipline should be administered with humility and love, with the goal of restoring the erring member to fellowship and spiritual health. It should be a last resort, employed only after other attempts at reconciliation have failed.

Conclusion

2 Corinthians 10 offers profound insights into the nature of spiritual authority, the challenges of leadership, and the importance of humility. Paul’s Authority, as demonstrated in this chapter, is rooted in his relationship with Christ and his commitment to serving the church. His willingness to defend his ministry while also acknowledging his weaknesses serves as an example for all believers. We must guard against the temptation to judge based on outward appearances, and instead, seek to discern true spiritual authority by its fruits. May we all strive to bring every thought into captivity to Christ and to boast only in the Lord, using our God-given gifts to edify and build up the Body of Christ.

Tags

Apostolic Authority, Coptic Theology, 2 Corinthians, Paul, Spiritual Warfare, Humility, Church Leadership, Biblical Commentary, Patristic Wisdom, Christian Living

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Explore Paul’s defense of his apostolic authority in 2 Corinthians 10 through a Coptic Orthodox lens. Discover insights on humility, spiritual warfare, and true leadership.