Paul's Apostolic Authority and Spiritual Warfare
2 Corinthians 10:1-18
2Cor.10.1 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Αυτος: PRON,nom,sg,m
- δε: CONJ
- εγω: PRON,nom,sg,1
- Παυλος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- παρακαλω: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- υμας: PRON,acc,pl,2
- δια: PREP
- της: ART,gen,sg,f
- πραυτητος: NOUN,gen,sg,f
- και: CONJ
- επιεικειας: NOUN,gen,sg,f
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- Χριστου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- ος: PRON,nom,sg,m
- κατα: PREP
- προσωπον: NOUN,acc,sg,n
- μεν: PART
- ταπεινος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- εν: PREP
- υμιν: PRON,dat,pl,2
- απων: PART,nom,sg,m
- δε: CONJ
- θαρρω: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- εις: PREP
- υμας·: PRON,acc,pl,2
Parallels
- Matthew 11:29 (verbal): Jesus describes himself as 'gentle and lowly in heart' (cf. πραΰτης/πραΰτης and humility); Paul appeals to 'the meekness and gentleness of Christ,' echoing Christ's character as the model for Christian conduct.
- Isaiah 42:2-3 (allusion): The Suffering Servant is portrayed as gentle—he will not bruise a crushed reed nor snuff out a smoldering wick—an Old Testament background for the New Testament emphasis on Christ's meekness and for appeals made 'by the meekness of Christ.'
- 1 Corinthians 4:21 (verbal): Paul poses a direct choice about how to come to the Corinthians: 'with a rod, or with love and a spirit of gentleness'—paralleling 2 Cor 10:1's contrast between his meek/gentle demeanor and the possibility of a sterner stance.
- 1 Thessalonians 2:7-8 (thematic): Paul portrays his ministry as gentle and nurturing ('we were gentle among you, like a nursing mother'), reinforcing the pastoral meekness he invokes in 2 Cor 10:1 as characteristic of his approach.
- 2 Corinthians 10:10 (structural): Within the same letter opponents contrast Paul's 'bodily presence' and 'speech'; 2 Cor 10:1's claim to be 'meek in person, bold when absent' directly relates to the rhetorical problem addressed in 10:10 and the wider Corinthian conflict over presence vs. letters.
Alternative generated candidates
- I, Paul, beg you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ— I who am meek when I am with you but bold toward you when I am absent—
- I, Paul, appeal to you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ—though I am lowly when present with you, yet bold toward you when absent—
2Cor.10.2 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- δεομαι: VERB,pres,mid/dep,ind,1,sg
- δε: CONJ
- το: ART,acc,sg,n
- μη: PART
- παρων: PART,pres,act,nom/acc,neut,sg
- θαρρησαι: VERB,aor,act,inf
- τη: ART,dat,sg,f
- πεποιθησει: NOUN,dat,sg,f
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- λογιζομαι: VERB,pres,mid,ind,1,sg
- τολμησαι: VERB,aor,act,inf
- επι: PREP
- τινας: PRON,acc,pl,m
- τους: ART,acc,pl,m
- λογιζομενους: PART,pres,mid/pass,acc,pl,m
- ημας: PRON,acc,pl,1
- ως: ADV
- κατα: PREP
- σαρκα: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- περιπατουντας: VERB,pres,act,ptc,acc,m,pl
Parallels
- 2 Corinthians 10:1 (structural): Immediate context: Paul contrasts his meekness when present with the boldness he claims when absent — the same tension between personal presence and rhetorical confidence.
- 2 Corinthians 10:10 (verbal): Directly related charge from opponents that Paul is powerful in letters but weak in person — echoes the concern about appearing bold only ‘when absent’ or merely ‘in letters.’
- Galatians 5:16 (thematic): Commands believers to 'walk by the Spirit' rather than gratify the flesh; parallels Paul’s contrast between those who 'walk according to the flesh' and the proper, spiritual way of life.
- Romans 8:4-5 (thematic): Contrasts living 'according to the flesh' with living 'according to the Spirit.' Provides theological background to Paul’s accusation that some are perceived as walking 'κατὰ σάρκα.'
- 1 Corinthians 3:3 (allusion): Paul describes the Corinthians as still 'carnal' (σαρκικοί) and behaving in ways characteristic of fleshly walking — a similar label and critique applied elsewhere in his letters.
Alternative generated candidates
- I beg that when I am present I may not have to show boldness by the authority with which I intend to deal firmly with some who regard us according to the flesh.
- I beg that when I am present I may not have to be bold with the authority the Lord has given me for building up and not for tearing down.
2Cor.10.3 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- εν: PREP
- σαρκι: NOUN,dat,sg,f
- γαρ: PART
- περιπατουντες: PART,pres,act,nom,pl,m
- ου: PART,neg
- κατα: PREP
- σαρκα: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- στρατευομεθα: VERB,pres,mid,ind,1,pl
Parallels
- Ephesians 6:12 (verbal): Both passages stress that the true struggle is not against flesh and blood but is spiritual in nature (spiritual warfare language parallels 'not war according to the flesh').
- 2 Corinthians 10:4 (structural): Immediate continuation of the argument: verse 3 sets up the contrast that verse 4 resolves by describing 'weapons' that are not of the flesh.
- Galatians 5:17 (thematic): Highlights the opposition between the flesh and the Spirit—explains why believers do not wage war 'according to the flesh.'
- Romans 8:13 (thematic): Contrasts living/walking according to the flesh with life by the Spirit, underlining the moral/spiritual stakes behind the statement in 2 Corinthians 10:3.
- Colossians 3:5 (thematic): Calls for putting to death 'members which are on earth' (the flesh), related to the idea that the Christian struggle is against sinful fleshly patterns rather than merely physical opponents.
Alternative generated candidates
- For though we walk in the flesh, we do not wage war according to the flesh.
- For though we walk in the flesh, we do not wage war according to the flesh.
2Cor.10.4 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- τα: ART,acc,pl,n
- γαρ: PART
- οπλα: NOUN,nom,pl,n
- της: ART,gen,sg,f
- στρατειας: NOUN,gen,sg,f
- ημων: PRON,gen,pl,1
- ου: PART,neg
- σαρκικα: ADV
- αλλα: CONJ
- δυνατα: ADJ,acc,pl,n
- τω: ART,dat,sg,m
- θεω: NOUN,dat,sg,m
- προς: PREP
- καθαιρεσιν: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- οχυρωματων: NOUN,gen,pl,n
- λογισμους: NOUN,acc,pl,m
- καθαιρουντες: VERB,pres,act,part,nom,pl,m
Parallels
- Ephesians 6:11-12,16 (thematic): Both passages frame Christian struggle as spiritual warfare and describe non‑carnal 'weapons' (armor, shield) used against spiritual forces rather than fleshly opponents.
- Colossians 2:15 (allusion): Speaks of Christ disarming and triumphing over spiritual rulers and authorities—parallel to the aim of 'pulling down strongholds' and overcoming hostile spiritual powers.
- 2 Corinthians 10:5 (verbal): Immediate continuation of 10:4 — explicitly describes the action of 'casting down imaginations/arguments' and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, echoing the imagery of demolishing strongholds.
- 2 Corinthians 10:3 (structural): Sets the context for 10:4 by distinguishing Christian conduct ('we walk in the flesh') from the mode of warfare (not according to the flesh), preparing the contrast developed in 10:4 about non‑carnal weapons.
- 1 Corinthians 2:4-5 (thematic): Emphasizes reliance on the Spirit's power rather than human wisdom or fleshly means—resonates with 10:4's stress that the weapons are 'mighty through God' rather than carnal.
Alternative generated candidates
- For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to demolish strongholds.
- The weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds.
2Cor.10.5 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- και: CONJ
- παν: ADJ,nom,sg,n
- υψωμα: NOUN,acc,sg,n
- επαιρομενον: PART,pres,pass,acc,sg,n
- κατα: PREP
- της: ART,gen,sg,f
- γνωσεως: NOUN,gen,sg,f
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- θεου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- και: CONJ
- αιχμαλωτιζοντες: PART,pres,act,nom,pl,m
- παν: ADJ,nom,sg,n
- νοημα: NOUN,acc,sg,n
- εις: PREP
- την: ART,acc,sg,f
- υπακοην: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- Χριστου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
Parallels
- Romans 12:2 (thematic): Both passages focus on the transformation and discipline of the mind—resisting conformity to the world and renewing the mind so that one can discern and obey God’s will, paralleling 'bringing every thought into obedience.'
- Colossians 2:8 (allusion): Warnings against being taken captive by human philosophy and empty deceit echo Paul’s language of capturing lofty arguments and bringing thoughts into submission to Christ.
- Ephesians 4:22-24 (thematic): The call to put off the old self and be renewed in the spirit of the mind corresponds to the idea of actively disciplining and reorienting thoughts toward obedience to Christ.
- 1 Corinthians 2:16 (verbal): The claim that 'we have the mind of Christ' complements the injunction to make every thought obedient to Christ—implying believers’ thinking should conform to Christ’s mind.
- Philippians 2:5 (structural): The exhortation to 'have this mind in you that was in Christ Jesus' aligns with the goal of bringing thoughts into obedience to Christ, encouraging internal conformity to Christ’s attitude and will.
Alternative generated candidates
- We destroy arguments and every proud obstacle raised against the knowledge of God, and we take every thought captive to obey Christ.
- We destroy arguments and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and we take every thought captive to obey Christ,
2Cor.10.6 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- και: CONJ
- εν: PREP
- ετοιμω: ADJ,dat,sg,m
- εχοντες: VERB,pres,act,part,nom,pl,m
- εκδικησαι: VERB,aor,act,inf
- πασαν: ADJ,acc,sg,f
- παρακοην: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- οταν: CONJ
- πληρωθη: VERB,aor,pass,ind,3,sg
- υμων: PRON,gen,pl,2
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- υπακοη: NOUN,nom,sg,f
Parallels
- 2 Corinthians 10:5 (structural): Immediate context—Paul links spiritual warfare (destroying arguments) with bringing every thought into obedience, providing the framework for punishing disobedience.
- 2 Corinthians 10:8 (thematic): Same chapter—Paul defends his apostolic authority and asserts he will not be ashamed when he exercises that authority among the Corinthians, echoing the readiness to correct disobedience.
- 1 Corinthians 4:21 (verbal): Paul presents a similar disciplinary contrast—coming to the church 'with a rod' or 'in love and gentleness'—paralleling the threat to enforce obedience if needed.
- 1 Corinthians 5:4-5 (thematic): An explicit example of Paul authorizing severe church discipline (delivering a sinful member to Satan) intended to correct and restore, resonating with executing judgment when obedience is lacking.
- Matthew 18:15-17 (thematic): Jesus' procedure for confronting and, if necessary, excluding an unrepentant brother provides the NT pattern for communal correction and the consequences of persistent disobedience.
Alternative generated candidates
- And we are ready to punish every act of disobedience, once your obedience is complete.
- and we are ready to punish every act of disobedience when your obedience is complete.
2Cor.10.7 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Τα: ART,acc,pl,n
- κατα: PREP
- προσωπον: NOUN,acc,sg,n
- βλεπετε: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,pl
- ει: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,sg
- τις: PRON,nom,sg,?
- πεποιθεν: VERB,perf,act,ptc,nom,sg,m
- εαυτω: PRON,dat,sg,m
- Χριστου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- ειναι: VERB,pres,act,inf
- τουτο: PRON,nom,sg,n
- λογιζεσθω: VERB,pres,mid,imp,3,sg
- παλιν: ADV
- εφ᾽εαυτου: PREP+PRON,gen,sg,m
- οτι: CONJ
- καθως: CONJ
- αυτος: PRON,nom,sg,3,m
- Χριστου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- ουτως: ADV
- και: CONJ
- ημεις: PRON,nom,pl,1
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 1:12-13 (thematic): Addresses factional claims ('I am of Paul... I of Christ') and disputes boasting in allegiance—parallels Paul’s challenge to reconsider confident claims of belonging to Christ.
- 1 Corinthians 3:21-23 (thematic): Affirms 'you are Christ's' and the proper relation of believers to leaders and to Christ, echoing the question of who truly belongs to Christ and unity under him.
- Galatians 6:3 (verbal): 'If anyone thinks he is something, when he is nothing, he deceives himself'—a close verbal/thematic warning against self-confidence and self-deception like the admonition to 'think again.'
- 2 Corinthians 10:12 (structural): Immediate context in the same chapter condemns measuring and commending oneself by oneself—continues the critique of self-assured boasting and the need to reassess one's claims.
Alternative generated candidates
- Look at the things before your eyes. If anyone is confident that he belongs to Christ, let him consider again that as he belongs to Christ, so do we.
- Look at what they commend themselves for—are they the ones who recommend themselves to you? Or do you judge by what is seen on the outside?
2Cor.10.8 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- εαν: CONJ
- τε: CONJ
- γαρ: PART
- περισσοτερον: ADV,comp
- τι: PRON,int,nom,sg,n
- καυχησωμαι: VERB,aor,mid,subj,1,sg
- περι: PREP
- της: ART,gen,sg,f
- εξουσιας: NOUN,acc,pl,f
- ημων: PRON,gen,pl,1
- ης: PRON,gen,sg,f
- εδωκεν: VERB,aor,act,ind,3,sg
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- κυριος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- εις: PREP
- οικοδομην: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- και: CONJ
- ουκ: PART,neg
- εις: PREP
- καθαιρεσιν: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- υμων: PRON,gen,pl,2
- ουκ: PART,neg
- αισχυνθησομαι: VERB,fut,pass,ind,1,sg
Parallels
- 2 Corinthians 13:10 (verbal): Paul again speaks of the authority given him by the Lord (ἐξουσία) and his intention how to use it—closely parallels the phrasing and claim of authority in 10:8.
- 2 Corinthians 1:24 (thematic): Paul insists he does not exercise dominion over believers but serves as a helper—echoes 10:8's emphasis that his authority is for building up, not for subjugation or tearing down.
- Ephesians 4:11-16 (thematic): The church leaders' gift of ministry is described as intended 'for the building up' (οἰκοδομή) of the body of Christ—parallels 10:8's concern that authority be used for edification.
- Matthew 28:18 (verbal): Jesus' declaration that 'all authority has been given to me' provides the model/source for Christ-given authority; Paul frames his own authority as given by the Lord for a specific pastoral purpose (edification).
Alternative generated candidates
- For even if I should boast somewhat beyond proper limits about the authority the Lord gave us for building you up, I will not be put to shame—
- For if I should boast somewhat more about the authority the Lord gave us for building you up, I will not be put to shame;
2Cor.10.9 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ινα: CONJ
- μη: PART
- δοξω: VERB,aor,act,subj,1,sg
- ως: ADV
- αν: PART
- εκφοβειν: VERB,pres,act,inf
- υμας: PRON,acc,pl,2
- δια: PREP
- των: ART,gen,pl,m
- επιστολων·: NOUN,gen,pl,f
Parallels
- 2Cor.10.2 (thematic): Paul requests that his coming not require him to use boldness or harshness—closely parallel in theme (presence vs. manner of dealing with the Corinthians).
- 2Cor.10.10 (verbal): Directly connected: opponents contrast the ‘weighty’ tone of Paul’s letters with his personal presence, the immediate context for v.9’s concern about seeming to frighten by letters.
- 2Cor.7.8 (thematic): Paul acknowledges that a previous letter caused sorrow—another instance where his written words produced distress and needed management in his relationship with the Corinthians.
- 2Cor.13.2 (verbal): Paul warns ‘as if present’ and speaks of previous warnings in absentia—echoes the dynamic of written warnings and the effect of his absence/presence.
- 1Cor.4.21 (structural): Paul poses the choice of coming with a rod or with love and gentleness—parallel concern about how his presence or letters should be experienced (severity versus gentleness).
Alternative generated candidates
- for I do not wish to seem to be frightening you by my letters.
- for I do not want to seem to intimidate you by my letters. For some say, 'His letters are weighty and powerful, but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible.'
2Cor.10.10 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- οτι: CONJ
- Αι: ART,nom,pl,f
- επιστολαι: NOUN,nom,pl,f
- μεν: PART
- φησιν: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- βαρειαι: ADJ,nom,pl,f
- και: CONJ
- ισχυραι: ADJ,nom,pl,f
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- δε: CONJ
- παρουσια: NOUN,dat,sg,f
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- σωματος: NOUN,gen,sg,n
- ασθενης: ADJ,nom,sg,f
- και: CONJ
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- λογος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- εξουθενημενος: VERB,perf,pass,part,nom,sg,m
Parallels
- 2Corinthians 10:11 (structural): Directly follows v.10 and responds to the same charge: Paul insists that what he writes by letters when absent matches what he will do in person when present, addressing the contrast between bold letters and weak presence.
- 2Corinthians 11:6 (verbal): Paul acknowledges limited rhetorical skill ('unskilled in speech') while claiming adequacy in knowledge and deeds—a direct rebuttal to the claim that his speech is contemptible.
- 1Corinthians 2:3-4 (thematic): Paul describes ministering in bodily weakness and with unpersuasive speech, paralleling the theme that physical frailty and lack of rhetorical polish do not undermine apostolic authority.
- 2Corinthians 3:1-3 (thematic): Discussion of letters and commendation: Paul contrasts external letters/recommendations with the Corinthians themselves as the true 'letter,' engaging the broader issue of authority conveyed by letters versus personal presence.
- 2Corinthians 12:9-10 (thematic): Paul's embrace of weakness ('when I am weak, then I am strong') reframes bodily weakness positively, countering critics who regarded physical frailty and weak speech as disqualifying.
Alternative generated candidates
- For some say, 'His letters are weighty and strong, but in person he is unimpressive, and his speech is of no account.'
- Let such a person take note that what we are in word by letters when absent, we will also be in deed when present.
2Cor.10.11 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- τουτο: PRON,nom,sg,n
- λογιζεσθω: VERB,pres,mid/pass,imper,3,sg
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- τοιουτος: DEM,nom,sg,m
- οτι: CONJ
- οιοι: PRON,nom,pl,m
- εσμεν: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,pl
- τω: ART,dat,sg,m
- λογω: NOUN,dat,sg,m
- δι᾽επιστολων: PREP
- αποντες: PART,nom,pl,m
- τοιουτοι: DEM,nom,pl,m
- και: CONJ
- παροντες: PART,nom,pl,m
- τω: ART,dat,sg,m
- εργω: NOUN,dat,sg,n
Parallels
- 2 Corinthians 10:10 (verbal): Same immediate context about letters and presence—opponents say Paul's letters are weighty while he is weak in person; directly relates to consistency between his written and present comportment.
- 2 Corinthians 13:10 (verbal): Paul explains he writes while absent so that, when present, he need not use severity—same concern with how his written warnings relate to his conduct on visiting.
- 2 Corinthians 1:13 (verbal): ‘For we do not write anything else to you’—asserts that Paul's letters reflect his mind and intentions, reinforcing the claim that his words by letter match his actions.
- James 2:14–17 (thematic): Emphasizes the necessity that profession (words/faith) be shown by deeds—thematic parallel about consistency between what is said/written and what is done.
- Matthew 23:3 (thematic): Jesus' admonition to ‘do and observe’ what teachers say but not imitate their bad works highlights the importance of congruence (or lack thereof) between words and actions, a thematic contrast relevant to Paul's defense.
Alternative generated candidates
- Let such a one consider this: what we are in word by letters when absent, we will also be in deed when present.
- For we do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves; they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, without understanding.
2Cor.10.12 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Ου: PART,neg
- γαρ: PART
- τολμωμεν: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,pl
- εγκριναι: VERB,pres,act,inf
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- συγκριναι: VERB,pres,act,inf
- εαυτους: PRON,acc,pl,m
- τισιν: PRON,dat,pl,m
- των: ART,gen,pl,m
- εαυτους: PRON,acc,pl,m
- συνιστανοντων·αλλα: VERB,pres,act,part,gen,pl,m
- αυτοι: PRON,nom,pl,3
- εν: PREP
- εαυτοις: PRON,dat,pl,m
- εαυτους: PRON,acc,pl,m
- μετρουντες: VERB,pres,act,part,nom,pl,m
- και: CONJ
- συγκρινοντες: VERB,pres,act,part,nom,pl,m
- εαυτους: PRON,acc,pl,m
- εαυτοις: PRON,dat,pl,m
- ου: PART,neg
- συνιασιν: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,pl
Parallels
- 2 Corinthians 10:18 (structural): Direct contrast within the same argument: approval comes not from self-commendation or self-comparison but from the Lord, echoing Paul’s rebuke of those who measure themselves by themselves.
- Galatians 6:3–4 (verbal): Similar concern about self-deception and improper comparison — whoever 'thinks he is something' deceives himself; each should test his own work rather than compare with others.
- Romans 12:3 (thematic): Paul’s injunction against overestimating oneself and exhortation to sober self-assessment parallels the warning here about unwise self-comparison and self-commendation.
- 1 Corinthians 4:6–7 (thematic): Warning against pride and comparison — do not go beyond what is written; all gifts are received, so boasting and comparing oneself with others is inappropriate, resonant with 2 Cor 10:12’s critique.
Alternative generated candidates
- For we do not dare to classify or compare ourselves beyond measure, as some do, who measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, thereby lacking true understanding.
- But we will not boast beyond measure, except within the limits of the sphere which God appointed to us, a measure reaching even to you.
2Cor.10.13 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ημεις: PRON,nom,pl,1
- δε: CONJ
- ουκ: PART,neg
- εις: PREP
- τα: ART,acc,pl,n
- αμετρα: NOUN,acc,pl,n
- καυχησομεθα: VERB,fut,mid,ind,1,pl
- αλλα: CONJ
- κατα: PREP
- το: ART,acc,sg,n
- μετρον: NOUN,acc,sg,n
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- κανονος: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- ου: PART,neg
- εμερισεν: VERB,aor,act,ind,3,sg
- ημιν: PRON,dat,pl,1
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- θεος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- μετρου: NOUN,gen,sg,n
- εφικεσθαι: VERB,pres,mid,inf
- αχρι: PREP
- και: CONJ
- υμων: PRON,gen,pl,2
Parallels
- 2 Corinthians 10:12 (structural): Immediate context: contrasts self-comparison and measured boasting—v.12 rejects self-commendation while v.13 limits boasting to God‑given measure.
- 2 Corinthians 10:18 (thematic): Develops the same theme that legitimate commendation comes from the Lord, not from self‑boasting beyond the measure God assigned.
- Romans 12:3 (verbal): Uses the language of 'measure' (κατὰ τὸ μέτρον) given by God—both verses locate Christian activity and gifts within a God‑given measure.
- Ephesians 4:7 (verbal): Speaks of grace/gifts distributed 'according to the measure' of Christ’s giving, paralleling Paul’s idea that God apportions a sphere/measure for ministry.
- Romans 15:20–24 (thematic): Paul describes the limits and aims of his apostolic work—seeking to preach where Christ was not named and hoping to reach particular churches—echoing 10:13’s concern with the God‑given extent of his ministry.
Alternative generated candidates
- But we will not boast beyond our proper limit; we will boast only according to the measure of the sphere God allotted us, to reach even to you.
- For we do not presume to claim authority beyond what God has assigned us, but we will work within the measure God has given us until we come even to you.
2Cor.10.14 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ου: PART,neg
- γαρ: PART
- ως: ADV
- μη: PART
- εφικνουμενοι: PART,pres,mid,nom,pl,m
- εις: PREP
- υμας: PRON,acc,pl,2
- υπερεκτεινομεν: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,pl
- εαυτους: PRON,acc,pl,m
- αχρι: PREP
- γαρ: PART
- και: CONJ
- υμων: PRON,gen,pl,2
- εφθασαμεν: VERB,aor,act,ind,1,pl
- εν: PREP
- τω: ART,dat,sg,m
- ευαγγελιω: NOUN,dat,sg,n
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- Χριστου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
Parallels
- 2 Corinthians 10:13 (verbal): Immediate context uses the same language about not boasting or going beyond one’s appointed measure/sphere of ministry (same argument about limits and allotted sphere).
- 2 Corinthians 10:16 (verbal): Closely related verse in the same passage: stresses preaching the gospel to regions beyond the Corinthians and not boasting in another’s sphere—same concern about scope of ministry and rightful reach.
- Romans 15:20 (thematic): Paul states his ambition to preach where Christ was not named so as not to build on another’s foundation—parallels the idea of respecting spheres and being the first to bring the gospel to certain communities.
- 1 Corinthians 3:6-9 (thematic): Paul’s image of planting and Apollos watering highlights distinct roles and limits within ministry (different spheres of labor), echoing the concern about overreaching into others’ work.
- Galatians 2:7-8 (thematic): Paul explains that his apostleship was to the Gentiles while Peter’s was to the Jews—an explicit example of divided spheres of ministry and recognition of appropriate boundaries.
Alternative generated candidates
- For we do not overreach as if to take others' ground; rather we hope to build on what belongs to us, and ever to extend our work as your faith grows.
- We do not boast of preaching the gospel beyond our sphere, that is, in someone else's work; we hope that as your faith grows, our sphere among you will also be enlarged,
2Cor.10.15 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ουκ: PART,neg
- εις: PREP
- τα: ART,acc,pl,n
- αμετρα: NOUN,acc,pl,n
- καυχωμενοι: VERB,pres,mid,part,nom,pl,m
- εν: PREP
- αλλοτριοις: ADJ,dat,pl,m
- κοποις: NOUN,dat,pl,m
- ελπιδα: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- δε: CONJ
- εχοντες: VERB,pres,act,part,nom,pl,m
- αυξανομενης: VERB,pres,pass,part,gen,sg,f
- της: ART,gen,sg,f
- πιστεως: NOUN,gen,sg,f
- υμων: PRON,gen,pl,2
- εν: PREP
- υμιν: PRON,dat,pl,2
- μεγαλυνθηναι: VERB,aor,pass,inf
- κατα: PREP
- τον: ART,acc,sg,m
- κανονα: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- ημων: PRON,gen,pl,1
- εις: PREP
- περισσειαν: NOUN,acc,sg,f
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 3:6-7 (verbal): Paul’s imagery of planting and watering but God giving the increase parallels 2 Cor 10:15’s concern with others’ labors and the divine role in growth—the increase of faith and the limits of human boasting.
- Galatians 6:4 (thematic): “Let each one test his own work… and not in another’s” echoes the warning against boasting in others’ labors found in 2 Cor 10:15.
- Romans 15:17-18 (thematic): Paul contrasts legitimate boasting in what Christ has accomplished through him with presumptuous claims—resonant with 2 Cor 10:15’s restraint from boasting in alien labors and emphasis on rightful ministry.
- Philippians 1:6 (thematic): The confident hope that God will complete and increase the work of faith in believers parallels 2 Cor 10:15’s expectation that as the Corinthians’ faith grows, Paul’s sphere of ministry will be enlarged.
Alternative generated candidates
- We do not boast beyond what is fitting in the labors of others. Our hope is that, as your faith increases, our sphere among you may be greatly enlarged,
- so that we may preach the gospel in regions beyond you, and not boast in another's labors; rather we hope your faith will be effective in enlarging the sphere of our ministry.
2Cor.10.16 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- εις: PREP
- τα: ART,acc,pl,n
- υπερεκεινα: DEM,acc,pl,n
- υμων: PRON,gen,pl,2
- ευαγγελισασθαι: VERB,aor,mid,inf
- ουκ: PART,neg
- εν: PREP
- αλλοτριω: ADJ,dat,sg,m
- κανονι: NOUN,dat,sg,m
- εις: PREP
- τα: ART,acc,pl,n
- ετοιμα: ADJ,nom,pl,n
- καυχησασθαι: VERB,aor,mid,inf
Parallels
- Romans 15:20-21 (verbal): Paul states his aim is to preach where Christ was not named so as not to build on another’s foundation—language and concern parallel the desire to evangelize 'regions beyond' and avoid boasting in another's sphere.
- 1 Corinthians 3:6-9 (verbal): The planted/watered imagery and the refusal to claim ownership of another’s work (‘‘neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything’’) parallels the issue of ministry spheres and not boasting in another's field.
- 1 Corinthians 9:16 (thematic): Paul’s compelled obligation to preach the gospel ('woe to me if I do not preach') echoes the missionary motivation behind reaching 'the regions beyond' rather than claiming another’s successes.
- 2 Corinthians 10:13-15 (structural): Immediate context: Paul explains he will not boast beyond proper limits but only in the sphere God assigned him and his hope to extend the gospel to unreached regions—direct continuation and restatement of v.16's point.
- Galatians 1:15-16 (allusion): Paul’s divine calling to reveal Christ to the Gentiles and not to seek human approval resonates with the aim to preach beyond the Corinthians and to avoid boasting in another’s jurisdiction.
Alternative generated candidates
- so that we might preach the gospel even to the regions beyond you, not to boast of work already done in another's field.
- Thus we may proclaim the gospel where Christ was not named, so that we will not build on another man's foundation.
2Cor.10.17 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- δε: CONJ
- καυχωμενος: PART,pres,mid,nom,sg,m
- εν: PREP
- κυριω: NOUN,dat,sg,m
- καυχασθω·: VERB,pres,mid,imp,3,sg
Parallels
- Jeremiah 9:24 (quotation): Paul's line echoes and likely cites Jeremiah's words ('let him who boasts, boast in this, that he understands and knows me'), providing the Old Testament source for boasting in the LORD.
- 1 Corinthians 1:31 (verbal): Paul uses the same formula elsewhere ('Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord'), applying the Jeremiah citation to his argument about Christ-centered boasting.
- Psalm 34:2 (verbal): The psalmist declares personal boasting in the LORD ('my soul will make its boast in the LORD'), reflecting the theme and language of exultation in God.
- Galatians 6:14 (thematic): Paul insists that his only boast is in the cross of Christ ('May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ'), paralleling the principle of boasting only in the Lord.
- Philippians 3:3 (thematic): Paul speaks of those who 'boast in Christ Jesus' rather than in human credentials, echoing the call to ground any boasting in the Lord rather than in self.
Alternative generated candidates
- Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.
- But 'Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.'
2Cor.10.18 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ου: PART,neg
- γαρ: PART
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- εαυτον: PRON,acc,sg,masc,reflex
- συνιστανων: VERB,pres,act,part,nom,sg,m
- εκεινος: PRON,nom,sg,m
- εστιν: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- δοκιμος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- αλλα: CONJ
- ον: PART,pres,act,nom,sg,m
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- κυριος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- συνιστησιν: VERB,fut,act,ind,3,sg
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 4:3-5 (verbal): Paul insists he does not judge himself and that ultimate appraisal belongs to the Lord—closely parallels 'but the one whom the Lord commends.'
- Galatians 1:10 (thematic): Contrasts seeking human approval with seeking God's approval, echoing the warning against self-commendation.
- Matthew 23:12 (thematic): Jesus' teaching that those who exalt themselves will be humbled and the humble exalted parallels the principle that honor comes from the Lord, not self-promotion.
- 2 Corinthians 3:5-6 (thematic): Affirms that adequacy and authority come from God rather than from self—supporting the idea that commendation is from the Lord.
- Luke 18:9-14 (thematic): The parable contrasts self-righteous self-commendation (the Pharisee) with humble justification by God (the tax collector), illustrating the verse's moral point.
Alternative generated candidates
- For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.
- For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.
I, Paul, myself beg you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ— I who, when present with you, am lowly among you, but when absent, bold toward you—
I beg that when I come I may not have to be bold with the authority which the Lord has given me for building you up, not for tearing you down.
For though we live in the flesh, we do not wage war according to the flesh,
for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds.
We destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ,
and we are ready to punish every disobedience when your obedience is complete.
Look at what is before your eyes. If anyone is confident that he belongs to Christ, let him consider again that as he belongs to Christ, so do we.
For even if I should boast a little too freely about the authority given us by the Lord—for building you up and not for destroying you—I will not be ashamed.
That I may not seem to terrify you by letters. For they say, 'His letters are weighty and strong, but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible.'
Let such a person understand that what we are in word by letters when absent, we will be also in deed when present.
For we do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves; but when they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they show lack of understanding. But we will not boast beyond limits, but within the limits of the sphere which God assigned to us—a sphere that reaches even to you.
For we do not stretch ourselves beyond our measure as if reaching to you; for we reached you in the gospel of Christ.
I do not boast of things beyond my measure, that is, in another's labors. But I hope that, as your faith grows, we shall be enlarged among you in what pertains to our sphere,
so as to preach the gospel even to the regions beyond you, and not to boast in what someone else has already done.
We do not boast of things outside our measure, but we hope to work within the measure allotted us by God, to bring the gospel to places beyond you.
Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.
For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.