2 Corinthians 11:19 meaning
In this passage, the Apostle Paul employs sarcasm to highlight the folly of the Corinthians. He points out their tendency to tolerate foolishness, particularly from false apostles who manipulate and exploit them. Despite considering themselves wise, they are willingly falling prey to spiritual slavery and arrogance imposed by these deceitful teachers. Paul contrasts his genuine pastoral care with the self-serving nature of these impostors, indicating that if they are willing to endure such foolishness, they should equally tolerate his defensive "foolishness" for the sake of their spiritual health.
As he continues to defend his apostolic authority against the backdrop of rival teachers, Paul underscores the absurdity of their glad acceptance of harmful influences while rejecting his sincere and selfless ministry. His rhetorical strategy serves to remind them that true wisdom discerns and rejects falsehood, urging them to reconsider whom they follow. The verse intricately illustrates a broader theme found throughout scripture: the necessity of discernment in the pursuit of truth and wisdom amidst spiritual deception.
Read Paul’s pointed irony in 2 Corinthians 11:19.
This quick synopsis was AI autogenerated utilizing existing TheBibleSays commentaries as the primary source material. To read a related commentary that has been fully developed, see the list below. If there is an issue with this summary please let us know by emailing:[email protected]
Deeper Commentary Covering this Verse:
- 2 Corinthians 11:16-21 meaning. In 2 Corinthians 11:16-21, Paul returns to the topic of what he calls “foolishness,” where he will compare himself to the so-called apostles who are preaching lies in Corinth. These apostles have persuaded the Corinthians to listen to them through boasting about themselves. They have likewise ridiculed Paul to make him disreputable in the Corinthians’ eyes. So, Paul opts to “boast” about himself, though he thinks it is a distraction from the point. Yet the Corinthians apparently need to be reminded of why Paul’s apostleship is authentic and dedicated to the truth of Christ
Other Relevant Commentaries:
- 2 Corinthians 11:16-21 meaning. In 2 Corinthians 11:16-21, Paul returns to the topic of what he calls “foolishness,” where he will compare himself to the so-called apostles who are preaching lies in Corinth. These apostles have persuaded the Corinthians to listen to them through boasting about themselves. They have likewise ridiculed Paul to make him disreputable in the Corinthians’ eyes. So, Paul opts to “boast” about himself, though he thinks it is a distraction from the point. Yet the Corinthians apparently need to be reminded of why Paul’s apostleship is authentic and dedicated to the truth of Christ
- 2 Corinthians 11:1-6 meaning. In 2 Corinthians 11:1-6, Paul builds up to the direct defense of his apostleship. He declares that the need to compare himself to the false apostles is “foolishness.” He wishes the Corinthians would be centered on simply following Christ, not the boastings of teachers. Paul compares the Corinthians to Eve, that they have been tricked, and are tolerating false teaching. Although Paul’s enemies have slandered him as a poor public speaker, Paul asserts that he is not inferior to them. He reminds his readers that he is knowledgeable and that they have seen it through his teaching.
- 2 Corinthians 6:11-13 meaning. Paul appeals to the Corinthians to hear him: he has held nothing back in his openness and love for them, but the Corinthians have not reciprocated in the same way.