2 Corinthians 11:10-21 - Constrained To Silence Boasters
In vivid language, which proves how greatly he had been moved, the Apostle contrasts the false teachers who were injuring his converts with himself. They brought their disciples under bondage, exalted themselves, and lived in self-indulgence. He did not hesitate to unveil their true character and to designate them as emissaries of Satan. We need to fear a white devil even more than a black one. Satan conceals his deeds under the guise of an angel clothed in light; and as it is with him, so with his instruments; as their deeds are, so will be their end.
In the succeeding category, 2 Corinthians 11:16-21, Paul confesses freely that his words might seem in conflict with the humility that Jesus taught, and might savor of boastfulness and pride; but for the sake of the truth he stooped to the level of these false teachers, and adopted their own methods. Though he would not think of plundering or of smiting the disciples as these intruders did, yet he would meet the latter on their own ground. The proverb says, "Answer a fool according to his folly," and this is an exact description of the Apostle's defense. This much at least was clear: that the motive of his life was absolutely pure and selfless, and was capable of lifting him to a career of unparalleled heroism. [source]
Chapter Summary: 2 Corinthians 11
1Out of his jealousy over the Corinthians, he enters into a forced commendation of himself, 5of his equality with the chief apostles, 7of his preaching the gospel to them freely, and without any charge to them; 13showing that he was not inferior to those deceitful workers in any legal prerogative; 23and in the service of Christ, and in all kinds of sufferings for his ministry, far superior
Greek Commentary for 2 Corinthians 11:18
After the flesh [κατα σαρκα] It is κατα σαρκα kata sarka not κατα Κυριον kata Kurion [source]
I also [καγω] But he knows that it is a bit of foolishness and not like Christ. [source]
Reverse Greek Commentary Search for 2 Corinthians 11:18
Philippians 3:3By the Spirit of God [πνευματι τεου] Instrumental case, though the dative case as the object of λατρευω latreuō makes good sense also (worshipping the Spirit of God) or even the locative (worshipping in the Spirit of God). No (ουκ ouk). Actual condition rather than μη mē with the participle. In the flesh Technical term in Paul‘s controversy with the Judaizers (2 Corinthians 11:18; Galatians 6:13.). External privileges beyond mere flesh. [source]
Parse: Noun, Accusative Feminine Singular
Root: σάρξ
Sense: flesh (the soft substance of the living body, which covers the bones and is permeated with blood) of both man and beasts.
Greek Commentary for 2 Corinthians 11:18
It is κατα σαρκα kata sarka not κατα Κυριον kata Kurion [source]
But he knows that it is a bit of foolishness and not like Christ. [source]
Reverse Greek Commentary Search for 2 Corinthians 11:18
Instrumental case, though the dative case as the object of λατρευω latreuō makes good sense also (worshipping the Spirit of God) or even the locative (worshipping in the Spirit of God). No (ουκ ouk). Actual condition rather than μη mē with the participle. In the flesh Technical term in Paul‘s controversy with the Judaizers (2 Corinthians 11:18; Galatians 6:13.). External privileges beyond mere flesh. [source]
Technical term in Paul‘s controversy with the Judaizers (2 Corinthians 11:18; Galatians 6:13.). External privileges beyond mere flesh. [source]