NOTES for Co2 10:1-18

As this epistle moves into chapter 10, the Apostle’s tone changes abruptly. Perhaps he had received new information about the situation in the Corinthian community that compelled him once again to call the Corinthians to obedience.

Paul uses rather sharp expressions and takes a very firm position toward those who undermine his authority in the community and call into question his vocation as an Apostle of Christ. Notice how he uses military terminology in verses 3–6. Indeed, “his letters are weighty and strong,” and he threatens to be the same “in person” (10–11). What, then, distinguishes the Apostle Paul from the leader of some totalitarian sect? And can we use his severity to justify our own harsh words and actions directed against our brothers?

First, Paul’s weapons are “mighty through God”: he does not act on his own behalf or initiative. Can we say the same of ourselves? Second, he takes “every thought captive to obey Christ.” It is very important that Paul demands obedience not to himself but to God. How often our harshness is prompted only by personal motives! Finally, third, Paul “boasts”—that is, insists on his authority—only “according to the measure of the sphere which God appointed us, a measure that reaches even to you.” He respects the freedom of the Corinthian Christians. His goal is the free obedience to God of those whom he has “reached with the gospel of Christ.” Yet obedience to God is at the same time a condition of the Apostle’s authority in the community (6). He does not usurp power in the Corinthian church, even in Christ’s name. And if we must sometimes be firm toward our brothers or sisters, we need to learn from the Apostle Paul to combine firmness with love and respect for them.