2Cor 10 | MHCC | e4.org | 1-6 While others thought meanly, and spake scornfully of the apostle, he had low thoughts, and spake humbly of himself. We should be aware of our own infirmities, and think humbly of ourselves, even when men reproach us. The work of the ministry is a spiritual warfare with spiritual enemies, and for spiritual purposes. Outward force is not the method of the gospel, but strong persuasions, by the power of truth and the meekness of wisdom. Conscience is accountable to God only; and people must be persuaded to God and their duty, not driven by force. Thus the weapons of our warfare are very powerful; the evidence of truth is convincing. What opposition is made against the gospel, by the powers of sin and Satan in the hearts of men! But observe the conquest the word of God gains. The appointed means, however feeble they appear to some, will be mighty through God. And the preaching of the cross, by men of faith and prayer, has always been fatal to idolatry, impiety, and wickedness.

‏ 2 Corinthians 10

* The apostle states his authority with meekness and humility.

(1-6) Reasons with the Corinthians. (7-11) Seeks the glory of

God, and to be approved of him. (12-18)

1-6 While others thought meanly, and spake scornfully of the

apostle, he had low thoughts, and spake humbly of himself. We

should be aware of our own infirmities, and think humbly of

ourselves, even when men reproach us. The work of the ministry

is a spiritual warfare with spiritual enemies, and for spiritual

purposes. Outward force is not the method of the gospel, but

strong persuasions, by the power of truth and the meekness of

wisdom. Conscience is accountable to God only; and people must

be persuaded to God and their duty, not driven by force. Thus

the weapons of our warfare are very powerful; the evidence of

truth is convincing. What opposition is made against the gospel,

by the powers of sin and Satan in the hearts of men! But observe

the conquest the word of God gains. The appointed means, however

feeble they appear to some, will be mighty through God. And the

preaching of the cross, by men of faith and prayer, has always

been fatal to idolatry, impiety, and wickedness. 7-11 In outward appearance, Paul was mean and despised in the

eyes of some, but this was a false rule to judge by. We must not

think that none outward appearance, as if the want of such

things proved a man not to be a real Christian, or an able,

faithful minister of the lowly Saviour. 12-18 If we would compare ourselves with others who excel us,

this would be a good method to keep us humble. The apostle fixes

a good rule for his conduct; namely, not to boast of things

without his measure, which was the measure God had distributed

to him. There is not a more fruitful source of error, than to

judge of persons and opinions by our own prejudices. How common

is it for persons to judge of their own religious character, by

the opinions and maxims of the world around them! But how

different is the rule of God's word! And of all flattery,

self-flattery is the worst. Therefore, instead of praising

ourselves, we should strive to approve ourselves to God. In a

word, let us glory in the Lord our salvation, and in all other

things only as evidences of his love, or means of promoting his

glory. Instead of praising ourselves, or seeking the praise of

men, let us desire that honour which cometh from God only.