Albert Barnes Commentary 2 Corinthians 6:5

"in stripes, in imprisonments, in tumults, in labors, in watchings, in fastings;" — 2 Corinthians 6:5 (ASV)

In stripes. In this verse, Paul proceeds to specify what he had been called to endure. In the previous verse, he had spoken of his afflictions in general terms. In this expression, he refers to the fact that he and his fellow laborers were scourged in the synagogues and cities as if they had been the worst of men. In 2 Corinthians 11:23–25, Paul says that he had been scourged five times by the Jews, and had been beaten with rods three times. (See the commentary on 2 Corinthians 11:23).

In imprisonments. As at Philippi (Acts 16:24 and following). It was not an uncommon thing for the early preachers of Christianity to be imprisoned.

In tumults. The margin reads, Tossings to and fro. The Greek word (akatastasia) properly denotes instability, and from there disorder, tumult, or commotion. Here it means that in the various tumults and commotions produced by the preaching of the gospel, Paul endeavored to act as was fitting for a minister of God. Such tumults were excited at Corinth (Acts 18:6), at Philippi (Acts 16:19–20), at Lystra and Derbe (Acts 14:19), at Ephesus (Acts 19), and in various other places.

The idea is that if ministers of religion are assailed by a lawless mob, they are to endeavor to show the spirit of Christ there, demonstrate all patience, and do good even in such a scene. Patience and the Christian spirit may often do more good in such scenes than much preaching would do elsewhere.

In labours. This refers probably to the labors of the ministry and its incessant duties, and perhaps also to the labors they performed for their own support, as it is well known that Paul, and probably also the other apostles, often labored to support themselves.

In watchings. This means in wakefulness, or lack of sleep. He probably refers to the fact that in these arduous duties, in his travels, and in anxious cares for the churches and for the advancement of religion, he was often deprived of his ordinary rest. He refers to this again in 2 Corinthians 11:27.

In fastings. This probably refers not only to the somewhat frequent fasts to which he voluntarily submitted as acts of devotion, but also to the fact that in his travels, when abroad and among strangers, he was often destitute of food.

Those who traveled as Paul did, among strangers and without property, would often be compelled to submit to such trials. Indeed, the religion we now enjoy has cost such trials, almost without number.

It first cost the painful life, toils, anxieties, and sufferings of the Redeemer. It has been propagated and perpetuated amidst the deep sorrows, sacrifices, and tears and blood of those who have contributed to perpetuate it on earth.

For such a religion—originated, extended, and preserved in this manner—we can never express suitable gratitude to God. We cannot overestimate the value of such a religion; and for its extension and perpetuity, we also should be willing to practice unwearied self-denial.