Lesson 4849

 (Lesson 4849) (05-10-25) 2nd Corinthians 10:7-18 

   “Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? if any man trust to himself that he is Christ's, let him of himself think this again, that, as he is Christ's, even so are we Christ's. For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed: That I may not seem as if I would terrify you by letters. For his letters, say they, are weighty and powerful; but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible. Let such an one think this, that, such as we are in word by letters when we are absent, such will we be also in deed when we are present. For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise. But we will not boast of things without our measure, but according to the measure of the rule which God hath distributed to us, a measure to reach even unto you. For we stretch not ourselves beyond our measure, as though we reached not unto you: for we are come as far as to you also in preaching the gospel of Christ: Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men's labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly, To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man's line of things made ready to our hand. But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.” 

 

   In today’s quote, Paul addressed criticisms regarding his authority and personal presence. He condemned those who judge by outward appearances, asserting that if anyone claimed to belong to Christ, they should acknowledge that he did as well. Paul acknowledged that while his letters were perceived as bold, his physical presence was considered unimpressive. He warned that what he would do in person would align with the authority he expressed in his writings. Paul refused to compare himself to others, he emphasized that such a comparison is not authorized by the gospel. He chose to boast only within his own sphere of influence which God had assigned to him, which, indeed included the Corinthians. Paul expressed hope that as their faith grew, his ministry could expand further. He concluded by stating that true commendation comes from the Lord, not from one’s own self-praise. ~