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I speak by way of disparagement, as though we had been weak. Yet however any is bold (I speak in foolishness), I am bold also.
Verse Takeaways
1
The Irony of 'Weakness'
Commentators unanimously highlight the deep irony in this verse. When Paul says he was 'weak,' he is sarcastically adopting the insult his opponents used against him. His 'weakness' was his Christ-like gentleness and refusal to dominate the Corinthians, which stood in stark contrast to the tyrannical false apostles. Paul shows that true spiritual strength often looks like weakness to the world.
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2 Corinthians
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9
18th Century
Presbyterian
I speak as concerning reproach. I speak of disgrace. That is, says Rosenmuller, "I speak of your disgrace; or, as others prefer it, of the…
By way of disparagement (κατα ατιμιαν). Intense irony. Cf. 6:8.
As though (ως οτ). Presented as the charge…
19th Century
Anglican
I speak as concerning reproach, as though we had been weak.—Better, I speak it as a matter of reproach to myself, as …
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(19–21a) Probably no verses in the letter are more scathingly ironical than these. Not only do the Corinthians humor fools; they do so “gladly,” be…
16th Century
Protestant
Nay, in whatsoever. Paul had asked why the Corinthians showed more respect to others than to him, although he was by no means weak, that i…
17th Century
Reformed Baptist
I speak as concerning reproach These words may be considered either as explanative of the latter part of the former …
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It is the duty and practice of Christians to humble themselves, in obedience to the command and example of the Lord; yet prudence must direct which…
13th Century
Catholic
After asking the Corinthians to bear patiently with his self-commendation, and showing that he did this out of a zeal for them that was both reason…
