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2 Corinthians Chapter Eleven

                             

I. Content of the Chapter

 

The Narration of the Minister

A.  His jealousy ---- the church is corrupted from the simplicity (v.1-4);

B.  His innocence ---- preach the gospel of God free of charge without being burdensome to you (v.5-11);

C.  His judgment ---- pick the false apostles out (v.12-15);

D.  His boasting (v.16-33):

1. According to his foolishness (v.16-21);

2. According to his identity (v.22-23);

3. According to his tribulations (v.23-33);

 

II. Verse by Verse Commentary

 

2Cor. 11:1 Oh that you would bear with me in a little folly--and indeed you do bear with me.

YLT: “O that ye were bearing with me a little of the folly but ye also do bear with me:”

Meaning of Words: “bear”: endure hold oneself up against put up with; “little”: small least less; “folly”: senselessness foolishness recklessness;

Literal Meaning: “oh that you would bear with me in a little folly—” “folly” it means that one should do something that he does not want to so or that makes him unhappy. In order to compare Paul’s works with that of those false apostles who slip into the church in Corinth he has to mention his previous experience and accomplishments. This is boasting of himself not boasting of the Lord. It seems that he is commended by himself not by the Lord (see 10:17-18). Therefore it is seemingly “foolish” actions.

“And indeed you do bear with me” it indicates that the godly sorrow of believers in Corinth has shown his zeal toward Paul (see 7:7-11).

Enlightenment in the Word:

1)    Boast of oneself is foolish. Christians should avoid self-boast.

2)    It unsuitable for a Christian to manifest his qualification or working achievements. However it is for the sake of the Lord or for the purpose of leading others to the right knowledge of the Lord’s works one does not need to conceal himself excessively.

 

2Cor. 11:2 For I am jealous for you with godly jealousy. For I have betrothed you to one husband that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.

YLT: “for I am zealous for you with zeal of God for I did betroth you to one husband a pure virgin to present to Christ ”

Meaning of Words:jealous”: have warmth of feeling for or against affect desire envy; “betrothed”: join; “chaste”: pure clean innocent;

Literal Meaning: “for I am jealous for you with godly jealousy” “jealousy” it is the jealousy of one who cannot bear the abnormal condition because of love so it can also be called “jealous love”. What Paul cannot bear is not that he is forsaken by believers in Corinth but that some of them have been misled by the false teachers so that their minds have been corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ thus causing Paul’s godly jealousy.

For I have betrothed you to one husband betrothed” it means that a father agrees with his daughter’s marriage in the original. Therefore Paul here just treats believers in Corinth as a spiritual father (see 6:13; 1Cor. 4:15). Believers in Corinth did not know Christ before and it was Paul that preached the gospel to them so that they established the relationship with Christ.

“That I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ” “chaste” both the heart and actions are pure without being defiled by anything or anyone; “virgin” it refers to the position and condition of believers before the Lord’s second coming ---- love the Lord only; “to Christ” in the New Testament Christi is often mentioned as the bribe and the church the bridegroom (see Matt. 9:15; John 3:29; Rom. 7:4; 1Cor. 6:15; Eph. 5:23-32; Rev. 19:7-9; 21:2).

Enlightenment in the Word:

1)     Every minister of God should have close fellowship with God so as to be joined with God in oneness. Thus God can express His feeling through them.

2)     The position of the preacher in the heart of believers and his own loss are nothing. What is really important is to lead believers to touch Christ directly and love Christ.

3)     Christian lives in the world should be as a chaste virgin who loves nothing outside of Christ.

 

2Cor. 11:3 But I fear lest somehow as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness so your minds may be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.

YLT: “and I fear lest as the serpent did beguile Eve in his subtilty so your minds may be corrupted from the simplicity that in the Christ;”

Meaning of Words:be corrupted”: shrivel wither ruin; “simplicity”: singleness sincerity; “craftiness”: trickery subtilty; “deceived”: seduce beguile;

Literal Meaning: “but I fear lest somehow so your minds may be corrupted” “minds may be corrupted” it means that the minds are corrupted and become abnormal;

  “From the simplicity that is in Christ” “simplicity” means singleness and sincerity. If one’s mind is corrupted he will love things outside of Christ thus losing the singleness and simplicity toward Christ.

  “As the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness” “serpent” refers to the ancient serpent namely the devil and Satan (Rev. 12:9). The devil beguiled Eve with craftiness so that her mind was corrupted. Then she doubted the will of God and lost the simplicity in God. Moreover she desired the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil and lost the singleness toward God.

Enlightenment in the Word:

1)     Those who have believed the Lord through grace are betrothed to Christ. The most important is the “simplicity” in Him as “chaste” as the virgin (v.2). If we have been “seduced” by Satan and love the world we will arouse the “godly jealousy” (v.2). It is woe to us!

2)     God is a jealous God (Ex. 20:5). God is mostly jealous of men’s “being corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ” of their minds. As long as something makes us lose the absolute “purity” to Christ (v.2) and distracted from Christ no matter what it is God regards it “jealousy”. He is jealous of it mostly. 

3)     Whenever our minds are “corrupted from the simplicity” we have followed in the steps of corruption of Eve. Oh remember not when the old serpent set the trap for man for the first time it was just distracting man’s attention from Christ who is the tree of life!

 

2Cor. 11:4 For if he who comes preaches another Jesus whom we have not preached or if you receive a different spirit which you have not received or a different gospel which you have not accepted--you may well put up with it!

YLT: “for if indeed he who is coming doth preach another Jesus whom we did not preach or another Spirit ye receive  which ye did not receive or other good news which ye did not accept -- well were ye bearing ”

Meaning of Words:preach”: proclaim punish; “receive”: accept take; “put up with”: endure forbear suffer;

Literal Meaning: “for if he who comes preaches another Jesus whom we have not preached another Jesus” it means that Jesus they preached is not the Jesus preached by the apostles (namely not according to the revelation of the Scriptures) e.g. Jesus is a holy man but not God (see 1:7); Jesus is the firstborn of all creation but not the Creator (see Col. 1:15). Jesus is God but is a God who is inferior to the only true God. Jesus rose in spirit not in the flesh…etc.

“For if you receive a different spirit which you have not received a different spirit” it indicates that the spirit is different from the true Spirit. For example the spirit of bondage that makes man fear (see Rom. 8:15); the spirit that has a blind spot where spiritual things are concerned (see 1Cor. 2:12); the spirit of cowardice and disorder (see 2Tim. 1:7; 1Cor. 14:32-33); the spirit of error (see 1John 4:6) … etc.

“Or a different gospel which you have not accepted” “a different gospel” to modify the gospel a little bit in order to cater to the world tastes or personal opinions (see 1Cor. 15:1-2; Gal. 2:6-9);

“You may well put up with it!” It is ironic words rebuking them for receiving those who preach heresies without considerations. Paul means: if you are really so wide why are you so straitened to us (see 6:12)?

Enlightenment in the Word:

1)     We who have heard the gospel and believed and are saved should beware of those who preach “another Jesus” and ask us to receive “a different spirit” which we have not received. Even the Lord Jesus himself had said “Then if any one say to you Behold here is the Christ or here believe not” (Matt. 24:23) because there are many false things. May the Lord grant us wisdom to distinguish it.

2)     All the teachings preached by the apostles in the early church times are out of the revelation of God. Believers should keep them (see Acts 2:42). In other words all the teachings different from what the apostles have preached are wrong (see 2John10).

3)     Sometimes the different “Jesus spirit gospel” may be not totally different. Possibly most of them are the same with the Scriptures and yet are slightly varied. However the nature is changed finally e.g. the liberalism also preaches that Jesus is the son of God. However they hold that all men in the world are the sons of God and are begotten by God. Therefore the Lord Jesus is just the same as the common people in the world.

4)     The message of the gospel is bringing man back to Christ so that men shall love Christ. When our eyes are fixed on things outside of Christ or we can only be saved by some added things in faith we are just preaching a different gospel. 

 

2Cor. 11:5 For I consider that I am not at all inferior to the most eminent apostles.

YLT: “for I reckon that I have been nothing behind the very chiefest apostles ”

Meaning of Words:most eminent”: exceeding above very highly; “inferior”: come behind fail suffer need;

Literal Meaning: “for I consider that” Paul says this according to his spiritual knowledge (see v.6) not because of his pride.

I am not at all inferior to the most eminent apostles” “the most eminent apostles” it is ironic word which indicates that those false apostles who crept into the church in Corinth were conceited and arrogant (see 10:12).

Enlightenment in the Word:

1)     Though Paul is small (Paul means “tiny” in the original) he considers that “he is not at all inferior to the most eminent apostles” for his knowledge is not untrained (v.6) which is his knowledge of the full Christ ---- “my knowledge in the mystery of Christ” (Eph. 3:4). Among the apostles no one has deeper revelation than Paul. Therefore one’s true spiritual stature is his true knowledge about Christ.

2)     Paul is not fit to be called apostle according to his condition before he is saved so he calls himself “the least of the apostles” (1Cor. 15:9). However he is not at all inferior to the most eminent apostles according to his condition after he is saved. What is most important is not our condition before we are saved but that after we are saved.

3)     Today many Christians pay attention to the preachers more than the message itself so that they may blindly adore “the most eminent apostles” (the original) and accept their words without any discernment. However actually those who preach will pass away sooner or later. Only the valuable massage will abide forever.

 

2Cor. 11:6 Even though I am untrained in speech yet I am not in knowledge. But we have been thoroughly manifested among you in all things.

YLT: “and being in readiness to avenge every disobedience whenever your obedience may be fulfilled.”

Meaning of Words:untrained”: ignorant rude unlearned; “knowledge”: the objective knowledge;

Literal Meaning: “even though I am untrained in speech it means that when Paul preaches he has not applied the skills of the speech of the Greek philosophers nor cited the classics or the flowery language (see 10:10).

“Yet I am not in knowledge” Paul has the knowledge of the mystery of Christ because of the revelation of God (see Eph. 3:3-5; Gal. 1:16).

But we have been thoroughly manifested among you in all things” “all things”: the whole conversation and conduct of a man. The level of one’s knowledge can be discerned from his conducts.

Enlightenment in the Word:

1)     The speech of the preachers is indeed important the thought expressed by the words is more important. The beautiful words have not presented with spiritual minds it will be of no value.

2)     Teachers in the world pay attention to the way of teaching and yet the spiritual teachers emphasize the content of teaching. The former draws men to pay attention to themselves and the latter draws men to the sermons.

3)     The good example of a preacher is the best sermon. If a servant of the Lord can not put his sermon into practice in himself he cannot profit others greatly in spirit.

 

2Cor. 11:7 Did I commit sin in humbling myself that you might be exalted because I preached the gospel of God to you free of charge?

YLT: “and even if unlearned in word -- yet not in knowledge but in every thing we were made manifest in all things to you.”

Meaning of Words: “free”: in vain without a cause; “humble”: depress low abase; “exalt”: life up elevate;

The Background: because I preached the gospel of God to you free of charge?” Paul preaches the gospel of God to others free of charge. However his opposers slandered him and said that what he has preached is worthless.

“Did I commit sin in humbling myself that you might be exalted no matter in the church or in the world (1Tim. 5:17)

Literal Meaning: “did I commit sin in humbling myself that you might be exalted because I preached the gospel of God to you free of charge?

Enlightenment in the Word:

1)    Today the church of Christ

2)    To sacrifice oneself for the Lord and give up one’s lawful rights

3)    A faithful worker should suffer the

 

2Cor. 11:8 I robbed other churches taking wages from them to minister to you.

YLT: “other assemblies I did rob having taken wages for your ministration;”

Meaning of Words: “rob”: strip despoil; “wages”: pay; “minister”: relief service;

Literal Meaning:I robbed other churches other churches it means that the service of Paul (see Phil. 4:15-16). Note that the plural form of “churches” shows that not only the church in Philippi supplies but also other churches.

“Taking wages from them to minister to you” “taking wages” it does not mean that Paul had charged when he preached the gospel in other places (see v.7) but that they received their wages as that the workman received his hire which was his right (see 1Tim. 5:17-18; 1Cor. 9:1-11).

Enlightenment in the Word:

1)    Though the workers of the Lord do not ask for wages they do not refuse the gift of the church and believers. The giving and receiving of money should be done by God so that will be natural and good (Phil. 4:15-20).

2)    The workman is worthy of his hire (1Tim. 5:18). Believers should consider the need of the workers of the Lord and the workers should receive the provision of the Lord. It is wrong of assuming that the ministers of the Lord should lead a poor life.

3)    The preachers should be fully acquainted with the spiritual condition of the church they serve so as to have right response.

 

2Cor. 11:9 And when I was present with you and in need I was a burden to no one for what I lacked the brethren who came from Macedonia supplied. And in everything I kept myself from being burdensome to you and so I will keep myself.

YLT: “and being present with you and having been in want I was chargeable to no one for my lack did the brethren supply -- having come from Macedonia -- and in everything burdenless to you I did keep myself and will keep.”

Meaning of Words:present”: come behind fail lack suffer need; “burden”: be burdensome slothful; “supply”: fill up further furnish fully; “keep myself”: hold fast preserve;

Literal Meaning: “and when I was present with you and in need I was a burden to no one “in need”: the shortage in living and service; “a burden”: the burden to others in money; when Paul preached the gospel in Corinth he preached as well as did the tent-making work on account of living needs (see Acts 18:1-4).

“For what I lacked the brethren who came from Macedonia supplied” “the brethren who came from Macedonia” it indicated that the churches in Macedonia sent the brethren to supply Paul with riches especially the church in Phillip (see Phil. 4:15).

And in everything I kept myself from being burdensome to you and so I will keep myself” “keep myself”: especially in the matter of receiving money; “in everything I kept myself” I never receive the provision of money without reason.

Enlightenment in the Word:

1)     Christians should not only mind their own affairs and eat their own bread (2Thess. 3:10-12) but also look after their own families so as not let the church be burdened (1Tim. 5:16).

2)     The workers who truly love believers hope that believers will focus on the teachings they teach instead of being distracted to pay attention to the physical provision.

3)     The preachers and the common believers should both keep themselves in giving and receiving of money so as not to let the testimony of Christ be defiled.

 

2Cor. 11:10 As the truth of Christ is in me no one shall stop me from this boasting in the regions of Achaia.

YLT: “The truth of Christ is in me because this boasting shall not be stopped in regard to me in the regions of Achaia;”

Meaning of Words: “truth”: reality verity; “stop”: keep secret seal up;

Literal Meaning: “as the truth of Christ is in me the truth of Christ” the nature of the life of Christ is true and is yes in him (see 1:19-20). This life is not only in Paul but also has been manifested out of him so that he can speak and work in truth without any crafty motive or purpose.

“No one shall stop me from this boasting in the regions of Achaia” “Achaia” it is in the province of Corinth; Paul dwells there more than one year and a half. Therefore his innocence in the giving and receiving of money is for all to see.

“No one” no one of believers in Corinth not all those who are in the regions of Achaia; “boasting”: the boasting of him in keeping himself in affairs of money (see v.9);

Enlightenment in the Word:

1)     Paul has “the truth of Christ” in him. Though men misunderstand him God “knows” him. Likewise if we walk according to the truth of Christ in us we will not be afraid of the misunderstanding of others and will have boldness in God.

2)     The “boasting of Paul” is due to the “truth of Christ” in him. Yes he who has the reality of Christ can bear witness with boldness. It seems to be “boasting” and yet is the vivid manifestation of the reality of Christ.

 

2Cor. 11:11 Why? Because I do not love you? God knows!

YLT: “wherefore? because I do not love you? God hath known!”

Literal Meaning: “why? ---- Why do I not receive the money of your believers in Corinth?

Because I do not love you”? ---- Is it because that Paul refuses their provision on account of his displeasure with their distrust of him? No! 

“God knows!” Paul does not prove his love to believers in Corinth by himself but shows that it is known by God for God searches the reins and hearts (Rev. 2:23).

 

2Cor. 11:12 But what I do I will also continue to do that I may cut off the opportunity from those who desire an opportunity to be regarded just as we are in the things of which they boast.

YLT: “and what I do I also will do that I may cut off the occasion of those wishing an occasion that in that which they boast they may be found according as we also;”

Meaning of Words: “cut off”: cut down hinder; “opportunity”: occasion a starting-point; 

Literal Meaning: “but what I do I will also continue to do what I do” it means that they preach the gospel to the Corinthians free of charge (see v.7).

“That I may cut off the opportunity from those who desire an opportunity” “those who desire an opportunity”: the false apostles who are always seeking the evidence or excuse to entrap Paul. Therefore Paul’s refusal of the supply of believers in Corinth is because that they have not perfectly trusted Paul yet. And therefore Paul has not accepted it for their profit. Besides the other main reason is that some false apostles that have crept into the church are seeking the handle to catch him.

“To be regarded just as we are in the things of which they boast.” In order to enable believers in Corinth to distinguish between the true and false apostles he will continue to refuse the provision of believers in Corinth to show the difference between them: 1) Paul receives the supply of the church only if the church gives it in God and is willing to provide him. Otherwise he will do tent-making works to support his necessity (see Acts 18:3); 2) there are churches that have sent believers to help him (see v.8-9). However the false apostles make a living by charge collection everywhere.

Enlightenment in the Word:

1)     The principle of Christians’ walking is to keep the testimony of Christ. All that is for the testimony can be done in rest. However all that is against the testimony should be prohibited.

2)     We should take heed of our walking without leaving any handle or opportunity to the evil one for fear of humiliating the name of the Lord.

 

2Cor. 11:13 For such are false apostles deceitful workers transforming themselves into apostles of Christ.

YLT: “for those such false apostles deceitful workers transforming themselves into apostles of Christ ”

Meaning of Words:transform”: transfer transfigure;

Literal Meaning: “for such are false apostles “such”: those who desire an opportunity (see v.12) namely those who seek the handle of Paul; “false apostles”: they may call themselves apostles sent by the church in Jerusalem to preach everywhere. However since the Jesus and the gospel they preach are different from what Paul has preached (see v.4). Therefore Paul calls them false apostles.

“Deceitful workers transforming themselves into apostles of Christ” “deceitful workers” it means that their inner reality is deceitful; “transform”: their external actions are not true; “apostles of Christ” they are the same with the apostles of Christ apparently.

Enlightenment in the Word:

1)     We shall discern whether a preacher is true according to his nature not his appearance and walking.

2)     The affectations in spiritual things are difficult to be discerned from the appearance. Therefore the children of God ought to have a sober spirit (see 2Tim. 1:7) to discern them.

 

2Cor. 11:14 And no wonder! For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light.

YLT: “and no wonder -- for even the Adversary doth transform himself into a messenger of light;”

Meaning of Words:no wonder”: not marvelous wonderful; “Satan”: the adversary accuser the devil; “light”: luminous fire;

Literal Meaning: “and no wonder! ---- It means that if we know that it is Satan that manipulates the situation secret it will be of no wonder.

For Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light” “Satan” it is another name of the devil who was originally the archangel created by God. However he rebelled against God because of pride and led one third angels to distract their positions becoming the adversary of God Satan (see Is. 14:12-14; Rev. 12:4). He often transforms himself into an angel of light in order to mislead and deceive the people of God so that men will be trapped into his devices unconsciously.

 

2Cor. 11:15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also transform themselves into ministers of righteousness whose end will be according to their works.

YLT: “no great thing then if also his ministrants do transform themselves as ministrants of righteousness -- whose end shall be according to their works.”

Meaning of Words:ministers”: deacon servant; “righteousness”: equity justification;

Literal Meaning: “therefore his ministers” “his”: that of Satan (see v.14); “his ministers” here Paul points that the false apostles are ministers of Satan. They are apparently apostles sent by the church in Jerusalem. In fact what they have done has proved that they are driven by Satan and are angels of the devil.

“It is no great thing if also transform themselves into ministers of righteousness it is not surprising that their good works may cause that misconception they are “ministers of righteousness”.

“Whose end will be according to their works” any imitated “works” cannot deceive God who will render to each according to his works (Rom.2:6). Therefore their end must be bad.

Enlightenment in the Word:

1)    Falsehood is the principle of Satan for “Satan himself transforms himself into an angel of light” (v.14). “His ministers also transform themselves into ministers of righteousness”. However the final judgment of Christ will manifest their end “according to their works”. May the righteous Christ judge all the falsehood out of Satan in the church!

2)    It is difficult for the common believers to discern the workers. Therefore the elders of the church should take the responsibility of discerning the workers (see Rev. 2:2; Acts 20:28-29) so as not to lead the flock of the Lord into the mouth of the wolves.

 

2Cor. 11:16 I say again let no one think me a fool. If otherwise at least receive me as a fool that I also may boast a little.

YLT: “Again I say may no one think me to be a fool; and if otherwise even as a fool receive me that I also a little may boast.”

Literal Meaning:I say again let no one think me a fool “fool” the one who studies nothing and knows nothing; though Paul seems as a fool (see v.1) for he defends for himself by boasting he is not foolish in fact. Believers in Corinth should not regard them as a fool.

If otherwise if they really treat Paul as a fool;

“At least receive me as a fool that I also may boast a little” believers in Corinth shall at least receive the seemingly boastful words of Paul here as receiving a fool.

 

2Cor. 11:17 What I speak I speak not according to the Lord but as it were foolishly in this confidence of boasting.

YLT: “That which I speak I speak not according to the Lord but as in foolishness in this the confidence of boasting;”

Literal Meaning: “what I speak I speak not according to the Lord the words of Pau to believers in Corinth here are not spoken according to the Lord which indicates that the words are unnecessary in the Lord. However in order to correct the abnormal attitudes and thoughts of the Corinthians Paul has still to say these words. Therefore they are still the Lord’s words to us (see 1Cor. 7:25 40).

“But as it were foolishly in this confidence of boasting” Paul denies boasting previously and regards it foolish (see 10:17-11:1). However he has to boast of himself so he just seems as a fool in the “confidence of boasting.

Enlightenment in the Word: even Paul himself confesses that the boasting is “foolish”. However he is forced to do so to help the Corinthians for the sake of the love to them. It teaches us that: 1) Paul is willing to sacrifice his personal integrity in order to help brothers just like that the widow remarries for the sake of raising her children manifesting the great love of Christ who sacrifices himself. 2) If we take boasting as glory we are exceedingly foolish.

 

2Cor. 11:18 Seeing that many boast according to the flesh I also will boast.

YLT: “since many boast according to the flesh I also will boast:”

Literal Meaning: “seeing that many boast according to the flesh “many”: the false apostles that creep into the church in Corinth; “according to the flesh”: walk in the flesh; “seeing that…”: it is a fact that… which carries a meaning of reproach. Those false apostles boast of things in the flesh in the church at Corinth but believers even receive it blindly.

I also will boast”. Since you have received their boasting you may also not blame me for my boasting. Therefore I will also boast so that you can distinguish between right and wrong.

 

2Cor. 11:19 For you put up with fools gladly since you yourselves are wise!

YLT: “for gladly do ye bear with the fools -- being wise ”

Meaning of Words: “wise”: thoughtful sagacious discreet; “gladly”: sweetly with pleasure; “put up with”: hold oneself up against endure forbear suffer;

Literal Meaning: “since you yourselves are wise!” “You” refers to believers in Corinth; “wise”: one who has good discernment; since you think you are wise you should have judgment upon everything ---- 1) before the truth is manifested you shall treat the people of both sides justly; 2) when things are judged you shall deal with the reasons of both sides fairly.

“For you put up with fools gladly put up with gladly endure or bear … calmly; since believers in Corinth can endure the foolish boasting of the false apostles without demur they shall also endure the foolish boasting of Paul.

 

2Cor. 11:20 For you put up with it if one brings you into bondage if one devours you if one takes from you if one exalts himself if one strikes you on the face.

YLT: “for ye bear if any one is bringing you under bondage if any one doth devour if any one doth take away if any one doth exalt himself if any one on the face doth smite you;”

Meaning of Words:brings you into bondage”: enslave utterly; “devour”: eat down; “take”: hold obtain;

Literal Meaning: “for you put up with it if one brings you into bondage “if one” though it is conditional it can still be inferred that it refers to the Jewish believers who called them apostles (see v.22-23). Some Bible exegetes hold that they dare not act so boldly and recklessly in the church so it may refer to the condition of believers in Corinth before they have been saved. However the enslavement and dispossession in this verse can also be interpreted spiritually not literally. Thus the “one” can also refer to the false apostle.

  “Brings you into bondage force others to submit with vain words and make them serve gladly;

“If one devours you if one takes from you devour” and “take”: make men present money or substance gladly with lawless words for one’s own use; it is just like devouring believers and taking in the eyes of God;

“If one exalts himself if one strikes you on the face” “exalt himself” and “strike” it means that one subdues men’s will and dignity by wrong teachings. Thus though they are evilly treated they are still happy.

Enlightenment in the Word:

1)     The Lord teaches us that there should be no man who exercises authority over believers. Whoever will be great among you shall be the servant of all (see Matt. 25-26). However in the church there are actually many those who set them in a prominent position and lord over the flock entrusted to them. The Lord will judge them in the future.

2)     Today there are many preachers who make believers present their money readily through crafty means. Apparently they use the money in the Lord’s works but however most of it is spent for their personal need. Such actions are just like devouring believers and taking from believers.

 

2Cor. 11:21 To our shame I say that we were too weak for that! But in whatever anyone is bold--I speak foolishly--I am bold also.

YLT: “in reference to dishonour I speak how that we were weak and in whatever any one is bold -- in foolishness I say -- I also am bold.”

Meaning of Words:shame”: dishonor disgrace; “weak”: strengthless feeble; “bold”: dare venture;

Literal Meaning: “to our shame I say that we were too weak for that! “That” it is what is mentioned in the previous verse that someone brings believers in Corinth into bondage boldly; when Paul mentions it he has to disgracefully confess that I am not as strong as those false apostles and yet I am weak and dare not treat believers in Corinth like this.

But in whatever anyone is bold--I speak foolishly--I am bold also” “bold”: be bold to boast; Paul means that he dares not treat believers evil as the false apostles but he dares to boast like a fool like them so as to foster the discernment of the Corinthians.

 

2Cor. 11:22 Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they the seed of Abraham? So am I.

YLT: “Hebrews are they? I also! Israelites are they? I also! seed of Abraham are they? I also!”

Meaning of Words: “seed”: something sown;

Literal Meaning: “are they Hebrews? So am I. “Hebrews”: the Jews those who can speak Arabic and read the Hebrew Bible; they are different from the Jews who speak Greek (see Acts 6:1). Paul was born a Hebrew (Phil. 3:5).

“Are they Israelites? So am I”. “Israelites” it relates to the pure-blooded Jewish race who is distinct from the Samarians (see John 1:47; 4:9). Paul is also an Israelite (Rom. 11:1).

Are they the seed of Abraham? So am I.” “The seed of Abraham” it points out their position before God. The Jews are proud of being the seeds of Abraham (see Matt.3:9). Paul is also the seed of Abraham (Rom. 11:1).

Enlightenment in the Word:

1)     Today in the Christianity reputation is rather paid attention to e.g. the one graduated from the so-and-so theological seminary the so-and-so clergy the so-and-so famous preacher ---- they have drawn many to follow them and yet most of the followers end in despair for what they focus on is the appearance.

2)     He a Jew inwardly; and circumcision of the heart in spirit not in letter; whose praise not of men but of God (Rom. 2:28-29). May we turn our eyes to the Christ and the life of Christ in men.

 

2Cor. 11:23 Are they ministers of Christ?--I speak as a fool--I am more: in labors more abundant in stripes above measure in prisons more frequently in deaths often.

YLT: “ministrants of Christ are they? -- as beside myself I speak -- I more; in labours more abundantly in stripes above measure in prisons more frequently in deaths many times;”

Meaning of Words:more abundant”: more superabundantly exceedingly more frequent;

Literal Meaning: “are they ministers of Christ?--I speak as a fool--I am more:” “they” refer to the false apostles; since they transform themselves into apostles of Christ (see v.13) they call them ministers of Christ. “Fool” one overestimates himself; “more” it shows that if others can call themselves ministers of Christ Paul will be more able to boast.

  “In labors more abundant in prisons more frequently “in labors more abundant” it means that Paul works for the Lord laboriously (see Acts 20:35; 1Thess. 2:9; 2Thess. 3:8); “in stripes above measure” though here it mentions that Paul has been imprisoned frequently it is only clearly recorded once in Phillip before this book (Acts 16:19-29). And other occasions in prisons are written after this book (Acts 21:30-36; 23:11 31-35; 24:27; 25:4-5; 28:16; 2Tim. 1:17).

“In stripes above measure in deaths often” Paul was stripped by the Jews at least five times before this book (see v.24; 6:5) but it was not clearly recorded in the Scriptures. As for the “deaths” we can find the clue from the various perils he had experienced in the following verses (see v.25-26).

Enlightenment in the Word:

1)     What a faithful servant of Paul is. He sacrificed his individual pleasure and was willing to suffer for the Lord and to be put into prisons and to be stripped and to be at the risk of death. Dear brothers and sisters we may have just believed the Lord but we shall also be encouraged and be willing to sacrifice for the Lord more and walk in the heavenly way.

2)     He who is more entrusted will suffer more. He who has suffered more will provide more. When we have read the various tribulations that Paul has suffered (see v.24-33) we will not be astonished at the rich and abundant provision of Paul. The more one suffers then the more true love can he bestows.

3)     Some leaders of Christianity measure their individual achievements by counting men’s glory. However the true workers of the Lord estimate their works by the brands of the cross.

4)      There is no shortcut in spiritual things. Any knowledge talent or other things can not replace the experience of the cross. Only the way of the cross can bring men into the riches of the glory of God.

 

2Cor. 11:24 From the Jews five times I received forty stripes minus one.

YLT: “from Jews five times forty save one I did receive;”

Literal Meaning: “from the Jews five times” the Scriptures have not clearly recorded the reason why Paul is stripped by the Jews. Possibly when he had firstly believed the Lord had gone against the traditional customs of the Jews e.g. to eat with the Gentiles together which is prohibited among the Jews (see Gal. 2:12-13).

“I received forty stripes minus one” it is recorded in the Pentateuch that the beat shall not exceed forty (Deut. 25:3). Therefore the Jews will traditionally beat thirty-nine every time so as not exceed forty.

 

2Cor. 11:25 Three times I was beaten with rods; once I was stoned; three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been in the deep;

YLT: “thrice was I beaten with rods once was I stoned thrice was I shipwrecked a night and a day in the deep I have passed;”

Literal Meaning: “three times I was beaten with rods; “be beaten with rods”: it was the punishment of Romans. Once it was in Phillip (Acts 16:22).

“Once I was stoned; it was in Lystra that Paul was stoned to death (Acts 14:19).

“Three times I was shipwrecked; a night and a day I have been in the deep” it was once in the way to Rome (Acts 27:13-44) and yet it happened after this book was written.

 

2Cor. 11:26 in journeys often in perils of waters in perils of robbers in perils of my own countrymen in perils of the Gentiles in perils in the city in perils in the wilderness in perils in the sea in perils among false brethren;

YLT: “journeyings many times perils of rivers perils of robbers perils from kindred perils from nations perils in city perils in wilderness perils in sea perils among false brethren;”

Literal Meaning:in journeys often in perils of waters in perils of robbers both of the perils are easily met in long journeys

“In perils of my own countrymen in perils of the Gentiles these two perils relate to the religious and political persecutions at that time.

“In perils in the city in perils in the wilderness in perils in the sea”: the threat of life caused by different elements in the environment;

“In perils among false brethren” there are even the perils of being betrayed by the false brethren in the church that is supposed to let believers have rest.

 

2Cor. 11:27 in weariness and toil in sleeplessness often in hunger and thirst in fastings often in cold and nakedness--

YLT: “in laboriousness and painfulness in watchings many times in hunger and thirst in fastings many times in cold and nakedness;”

Meaning of Words:weariness”: be forced to labor; “toil”: be fatigue because of excessive labor; “hunger”: lack of bread;

Literal Meaning:in weariness and toil weariness”: the laborious works; “toil”: the excessive fatigue;

“In sleeplessness often”: to work or hurry on one’s journey over night;

“In hunger and thirst in fastings often”: suffer hunger or forget to eat because of the shortage of food or one’s voluntary desire;

“In cold and nakedness--”: the clothes were insufficient to cover them all or their clothes were robbed; 

 

2Cor. 11:28 besides the other things what comes upon me daily: my deep concern for all the churches.

YLT: “apart from the things without -- the crowding upon me that is daily -- the care of all the assemblies.”

Meaning of Words: “concern”: care;

Literal Meaning:besides the other things the other things: the physical troubles they have suffered;

“What comes upon me daily: my deep concern for all the churches” “concern”: be concerned about others; “come upon”: the accumulated burdens press upon him; “comes upon me daily” it means that the heavy burdens have never loaded off his mind for one is gone and another comes.

Enlightenment in the Word:

1)     Paul not only suffers from various external tribulations but also cares for the saints in the church and is concerned about their spiritual condition before the Lord. Such faithful service is really a good example.

2)     The apostle Paul is just like the great priest in the Old Testament who bears the judgment upon his heart to inquire of God (see Ex. 28:29-30). He puts the churches of God in his shoulder and bears the children of God in his heart. He is so concerned about the churches and children of God that the Father of lights enlightens him so he can understand the will and way of God in the church and write the epistles that meet the need of all the churches in the past. All the faithful workers of God should have such bowel of Paul.

 

2Cor. 11:29 Who is weak and I am not weak? Who is made to stumble and I do not burn with indignation?

YLT: “Who is infirm and I am not infirm? who is stumbled and I am not fired;”

Meaning of Words: “stumble”: offend entice; “burn”: kindle be on fire be ignited;

Literal Meaning: “who is weak and I am not weak? “Weak” it especially refers to the bondage in the flesh in the paragraph (11:29-12:20) that one cannot do according to what he desires. The burden that we can bear in the flesh is limited so everyone is weak (see Matt. 26:41). Not only Paul is weak even the Lord Jesus is without exception (see Heb. 5:2).

Who is made to stumble and I do not burn with indignation?” “Stumble”: be offended in the truth of faith especially those who are young in spiritual life are easily stumbled (see Matt. 18:6). Paul here does not say he is offended but that he burns with such condition. All those who serve the Lord should have such solicitude for the members.

Controversial Clarification: the “weakness” in this verse is not the weakness in faith (see Rom. 14:1). Some Bible exegetes conclude that “the weakness” here is the weakness in faith according to the words “who is made to stumble”. If it is so it indicates that Paul confesses that the faith of everyone (including himself) shall be weak. However it is contradictory to his consistent teachings (see Rom. 4:19; Col. 2:7). Therefore such explanation seems to be improper.

  However probably Paul here emphasizes his concern about the weakness of other believers and sympathizes their weakness (see 1Cor. 9:22).

Enlightenment in the Word:

1)     The weakness in the flesh may not be sin. However if one is ignorant of his weakness or is reconciled to his weakness and is unwilling to overcome it by the Lord it will be his fault.

2)     Who is made to stumble and I do not burn with indignation?” It should be the feeling that Christians should have towards one another for we are members in one body (see 1Cor. 12:24-27)

 

2Cor. 11:30 If I must boast I will boast in the things which concern my infirmity.

YLT: “if to boast it behoveth of the things of my infirmity I will boast;”

Literal Meaning: “if I must boast it suggests that Paul is forced to boast of himself.

I will boast in the things which concern my infirmity” when we boast of our weakness in the flesh (see v.29 the commentary) ---- confess our limitation and corruption in the flesh we will turn to seek the Lord’s grace thus experiencing the power of Christ (see 12:9).

Enlightenment in the Word:

1)     Man likes to boast of himself by nature. However the work of the cross makes man dare not boast of himself.

2)     The difficulty is not the cross but the cross leads us to the cross so that we will know our infirmity and our nothingness and that we are only worthy of crucifixion.

3)     He who has experienced the dealing with of the cross will not dare to boast of who he is. He who boasts of himself does not know the cross nor walks on the way of the cross.

 

2Cor. 11:31 The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ who is blessed forever knows that I am not lying.

YLT: “the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ -- who is blessed to the ages -- hath known that I do not lie! --”

Literal Meaning: “the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ who is blessed forever Paul has just mentioned his experience of his suffering (see v.23-27). Someone may think he exaggerates in his words. Paul also refers to his mind in the suffering (see v.28-29) which transcend the knowledge of the common people. Therefore He asks for God to be his witness for God is true (see 1:18) and our thoughts and intents are naked and opened unto his eyes (see Heb. 4:12-13).

“Knows that I am not lying” there are two meanings: 1) Paul says the previous paragraph before believers in Corinth as well as before the omniscient God; 2) the omniscient and omnipresent God testifies that Paul’s words are true.

 

2Cor. 11:32 In Damascus the governor under Aretas the king was guarding the city of the Damascenes with a garrison desiring to arrest me;

YLT: “In Damascus the ethnarch of Aretas the king was watching the city of the Damascenes wishing to seize me ”

Literal Meaning: “in Damascus the governor under Aretas the king Aretas the king”: Aretas IV the father-in-law of Herod Antipas who ruled the Nabateans of the Arabia during 9 BC to 40 AD. Probably the Roman emperor Caligula had given Damascus to Aretas to govern so Damascus was once his dominion.

“Was guarding the city of the Damascenes with a garrison desiring to arrest meAretas the king answered the request of the Jews and sent his governor guard the gate of the city of the Damascenes to seize and kill Paul (see Acts 9:23-24).

 

2Cor. 11:33 but I was let down in a basket through a window in the wall and escaped from his hands.

YLT: “and through a window in a rope basket I was let down through the wall and fled out of his hands.”

Literal Meaning:through a window” in the ancient times some houses of the people were built upon the city walls so the open ground out of the city was just down in front of the windows (see Jos. 2:15).

“But I was let down in a basket in the wall “basket”: the basket that is big enough to hold a man (see Acts 9:25);

“And escaped from his hands” it happened just soon after Paul was saved in about 38-39 AD. 

Enlightenment in the Word:

1)     When man desired to arrest Paul he was let down in a basket through a window in the wall. When the Lord Jesus was persecuted he passed through the midst of them and went his way (see Luke 4:28-30). The way of the servant is the same as that of the Lord but can not be above that of the Lord. The experience of the disciple is the same as that of the teacher but is always lower than that of the teacher. Praise Christ! He transcends all!

2)     Though the door on the earth is closed but God always opens a window to the heaven for the one whom He pleases. God is faithful who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able but with the temptation will also make the way of escape that you may be able to bear it (1Cor. 10:13).

 

III. Outlines of the Spiritual Lessons

 

Things that the Workers of the Lord Should Be Concerned About the Churches

A.   The fear that the hearts of believers are deceived that their minds are corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ (v.3);

B.   The fear that one comes to preach another Jesus and let believers receive a different spirit (v.4);

C.   The fear that believers can only distinguish by speech not the truth (v.5-6);

D.   The fear that believers cannot recognize who is the worker that really cares for the church (v.7-12);

E.   The fear that believers cannot recognize the deceitful false apostles (v.13-15);

F.    The fear that believers are misled by their wisdom and are willing to be bounded devoured and held by others (v.16-20);

G.   The fear that believers can only know men according to appearance and fame (v.21-23a);

H.   The fear that believers do not realize the importance of the suffering of the cross (v.23b-33);

 

How to Distinguish the Good Workers of the Lord?

A.   The good worker leads the hearts of believers to Christ not to himself (v.2-4).

B.   The good worker preaches the right gospel faithfully (v.5).

C.   Though his speech is simple the knowledge is not simple (v.6a).

D.   The good worker teaches by words but not by examples (v.6b).

E.   The good worker considers for believers’ profit so as not to be a burden to them (v.7-9).

F.    The good worker has the truth of Christ in him (v.10-11).

G.   The good worker does not fear to sin against the false worker to  help believers distinguish between right and wrong (v.12-15).

H.   The good worker does not lord over believers but beseeches them to receive him (v.16-21).

I.      The good worker does not fear to be compared with others (v.22-23a).

J.    The good worker should have many experiences of the cross (v.23b-27).

K.   The good worker is concerned about things of the church and believers (v.28-29).

L.    The good worker does not conceal his weakness from others (v.29-33).

 

── Caleb HuangChristian Digest Bible Commentary Series

   Translated by Mary Zhou