Useful Bible Studies > 2 Corinthians Commentary > chapter 10
At the time when Paul wrote the Book of 1 Corinthians, there were serious problems in the church at Corinth. In this second letter to the church, Paul says that most of the church members there followed his advice*. Clearly, however, some did not.
The people who opposed Paul were not the ordinary church members. The ordinary church members cared very much about Paul*; but these people considered themselves superior to him*. They were impressive people, who wanted to establish their own authority over the church. So they opposed the authority that God had given to Paul*.
These people were telling Corinth’s Christians not to give attention to Paul’s letters. Paul wrote bold and strong letters, they said; but really, his character was weak. Paul would not dare to be strict with anyone if he came back there. That was what they said.
Paul reminded Corinth’s Christians about the character of Christ. Christ was gentle and humble*; so that is how Christians should behave. Paul was not ashamed if people considered him weak*. However, Christ is not weak, but powerful*.
God had given authority to Paul*. As God’s servant, Paul had a duty to use that authority. So of course Paul would deal strongly with any remaining problems when he came to Corinth*.
The people who opposed Paul had a wrong opinion about him. They thought that, like them, he wanted to impress people. However, Paul did not think like them. He only wanted to please God*.
Next part: Christians must oppose their own wrong thoughts (10:3)
* See complete article for these Bible references.
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© 2016, Keith Simons.