John Calvin Commentary 2 Corinthians 10:3

"For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh" — 2 Corinthians 10:3 (ASV)

For though we walk in the flesh. Walking in the flesh means here — living in the world; or, as he expresses it elsewhere,

being at home in the body (2 Corinthians 5:6).

For he was confined in the prison of his body. This, however, did not prevent the influence of the Holy Spirit from showing itself marvelously in his weakness. Here again, there is a kind of concession, which, at the same time, is of no service to his adversaries.

Those who war according to the flesh attempt nothing but rely on worldly resources, and in these alone they also boast. They do not place their confidence in the governance and guidance of the Holy Spirit. Paul declares that he is not one of this class, since he is equipped with weapons other than those of the flesh and the world. Now, what he affirms about himself also applies to all true ministers of Christ, for they carry an inestimable treasure in earthen vessels, as he had previously said (2 Corinthians 4:7).

Hence, however they may be surrounded by the weaknesses of the flesh, the spiritual power of God, nevertheless, shines forth resplendently in them.