Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary 2 Corinthians 10:8

"For though I should glory somewhat abundantly concerning our authority (which the Lord gave for building you up, and not for casting you down), I shall not be put to shame:" — 2 Corinthians 10:8 (ASV)

If the need for self-defense in the face of opposition compelled Paul to “boast [GK 3016] somewhat freely” about his apostolic authority, he was confident that he would not be embarrassed by a charge of exaggeration or deception, for the facts themselves spoke eloquently in his favor. Everyone knew that his service at Corinth had resulted in the upbuilding of the Corinthian church in faith and in harmony, while the presence of the false apostles had produced friction and division (cf. 1 Corinthians 3:17). He stresses the divine origin of his authority (cf. 3:5–6; 13:10) and its employment for the common good (1 Corinthians 12:7).