John Calvin Commentary 2 Corinthians 5:13

"For whether we are beside ourselves, it is unto God; or whether we are of sober mind, it is unto you." — 2 Corinthians 5:13 (ASV)

Whether we are beside ourselves. This is said by way of concession; for Paul’s glorying was sane, or it was, if we may so term it, a sober and most judicious madness; but as he appeared foolish in the eyes of many, he speaks according to their views.

Now he declares two things: in the first place, that he takes no account of himself, but has this one objective in view—that he may serve God and the Church; and, secondly, that he does not fear the opinion of men, so that he is prepared to be considered either sane or insane, provided only he faithfully conducts the affairs of God and the Church.

The meaning, therefore, is this: “As to my mentioning my integrity so frequently, people will take this as they choose. It is not, however, for my own sake that I do it, but on the contrary, I have God and the Church exclusively in view. Hence, I am prepared to be silent or to speak, as the glory of God and the advantage of the Church require, and I will be quite content that the world considers me beside myself, provided only it is not to myself, but to God, that I am beside myself.”

This is a passage that deserves not only notice but also constant meditation, for unless we have our minds thus regulated, the smallest causes of offense will, from time to time, draw us away from our duty.