2 Corinthians 11:21; Concerning Dishonour
2 Corinthians 11:21 I speak as concerning reproach, as though we had been weak. Howbeit whereinsoever any is bold, (I speak foolishly,) I am bold also.
Concerning reproach for the sake of Christ, the dishonour and shame that the Apostle Paul had to endure in his sufferings to preach the gospel, he will share with us so that the Corinthian church may see his care and love for them. Why does he need to make such an elaborate show of what he has done? The gospel work in Corinth has been undermined when false apostles sought to discredit the Apostle Paul, the like of which he described in Acts 20:28-30 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.
His parting words to the church in Ephesus gives us a picture of the spiritual care the Apostle Paul had for the church in Corinth – Acts 20:31-38 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. I have coveted no man’s silver, or gold, or apparel. Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me. I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive. And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all. And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul’s neck, and kissed him, Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.
He is a leader who is exceptionally sensitive to the pastoral needs of his people. [D.A. Carson, From Triumphalism to Maturity]
His gentleness and care in his approach to the Corinthians have been misconstrued and taken weakness on his part – 2 Corinthians 10:10 For his letters, say they, are weighty and powerful; but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible. They will have to decide whether to continue with their spiritual mentors or with the impostors. [Hendriksen]
Serve as Christ served, love as Christ loved, and for Christ’s Praise. Amen.