2 Corinthians 10:7–8: Do you look at things according to the outward appearance? If anyone is convinced in himself that he is Christ’s, let him again consider this in himself, that just as he is Christ’s, even so we are Christ’s. 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.
A major factor contributing to the Corinthians’ dilemma concerning apostolic authority was their superficiality and shallowness. They looked only on the surface of things. They were oriented to externalities and worldly wisdom. As a result the false apostles found them fair game. In order to retrieve this indiscriminate church Paul would have to engage in what he found personally repugnant—self-commendation. His goal was not self-enhancement but restoration of the Corinthians. To that end he wielded his authority as an apostle of Christ. And he did so freely and without being ashamed of it. He tore down the “strongholds,” “arguments,” and every “pretension” of his opponents (2 Cor. 10:4–5) but he built up believers. 1
Personal Application
- Read 1 Corinthians 3:1. What is growing stronger, your spiritual life or your carnal life?
Godly Encouragement
- For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light. –Ephesians 5:8
A Biblical Thought to Share with Others
Do you measure spiritual maturity by more activity or less carnality? – TWEET IT
A Prayer to Consider
Lord, teach me to let go of spiritual strongholds, and to hold strongly upon You alone.
1. Walvoord, John F., & Zuck, R. B., Dallas Theological Seminary. (1985). The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
