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.
Read it in contextThe proper measure of ministry
Start reading at 2 Corinthians 10:7 (2 Corinthians 10:7 to 2 Corinthians 10:18).
An editorial reading unit, not a claim that the surrounding context stops here. Book background below applies to the shared passage; individual verses may need more specific explanation.
Paul challenges comparisons and boasting, locating his work within the sphere entrusted to him and the commendation that comes from the Lord.
10:7Do 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.
10:8For 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:
10:9That I may not seem as if I would terrify you by letters.
10:10For his letters, say they, are weighty and powerful; but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech contemptible.
10:11Let 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.
10:12For 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.
10:13But 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.
10:14For 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:
10:15Not 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,
10:16To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man's line of things made ready to our hand.
10:17But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.
10:18For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.
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Who
Who wrote the book? Paul the apostle is the principal author; Timothy is named with him in the greeting. Biblical references: 2 Corinthians 1:1. stated in the text
Who was present or being addressed in this passage? In the surrounding chapter context (2 Corinthians 10:1–13:14): Paul answers challenges to his ministry among the Corinthians and warns the church before his next visit. stated in the text
Who was the book written to? The church of God at Corinth and all the saints throughout Achaia. Biblical references: 2 Corinthians 1:1. stated in the text
What
What is the topic of this reading unit? The proper measure of ministry. Read 2 Corinthians 10:7 through 2 Corinthians 10:18 as a connected unit. interpretation
How does it contribute to the book? Paul challenges comparisons and boasting, locating his work within the sphere entrusted to him and the commendation that comes from the Lord. interpretation
When
When are the events or message set? The letter reflects earlier exchanges, changed travel plans, and a collection in progress. A precise date requires reconstruction beyond a dated statement in the letter. book background
Where
What is the book’s geographic setting? Corinth and the saints in Achaia are addressed; Macedonia and other ministry locations appear in the account. book background
Where does the context start?
This passage sits in The proper measure of ministry (2 Corinthians 10:7 to 2 Corinthians 10:18).
Start reading at 2 Corinthians 10:7. An editorial reading unit, not a claim that the surrounding context stops here. Book background below applies to the shared passage; individual verses may need more specific explanation.
How
How does this book connect with Jesus Christ? Paul explains ministry through the death and life of Jesus, reconciliation in Christ, and power displayed in weakness. These themes do not make suffering proof that every minister's claim is valid. See 2 Corinthians 4:5, 2 Corinthians 4:10, 2 Corinthians 5:19, 2 Corinthians 12:9. interpretation
How should this book guide our response? Practice integrity, generosity, and openness to correction. Assess ministry by faithfulness to Christ rather than outward impressiveness alone. interpretation
Cross references from CrossReferences-org (CC BY 4.0).
Macro-Structure
See how this passage fits the chapter and the book.
2 Corinthians 10
Prefilled outline, not yet reviewed.
Paul and Timothy address the church of God at Corinth and the saints in Achaia. The letter explains Paul's ministry and suffering, appeals for reconciliation and generosity, and confronts challenges to his apostolic service.
Connection to the wholePaul answers criticism of his manner by describing a warfare and authority that address thoughts and disobedience rather than relying on fleshly force.
Connection to the wholePaul challenges comparisons and boasting, locating his work within the sphere entrusted to him and the commendation that comes from the Lord.
interpretation
Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.
2 Corinthians
Prefilled outline, not yet reviewed.
Paul and Timothy address the church of God at Corinth and the saints in Achaia. The letter explains Paul's ministry and suffering, appeals for reconciliation and generosity, and confronts challenges to his apostolic service.
Connection to the wholePaul describes comfort in affliction and explains his dealings with Corinth, including forgiveness and his concern over the church's response.
Connection to the wholePaul explains the character of his ministry and appeals to the Corinthians, ending with relief over their response to his correction.
Connection to the wholeThe example of other believers and of Christ supports an appeal for willing, responsible giving that supplies need and results in thanksgiving.
Connection to the wholePaul answers his opponents, explains strength in weakness, and prepares the church for a visit marked by accountability and restoration.
interpretation
Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.