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Are they servants of Christ? (I speak as one beside himself) I am more so; in labors more abundantly, in prisons more abundantly, in stripes above measure, in deaths often.
Verse Takeaways
1
Boasting in Weakness
Commentators explain that Paul sarcastically calls himself a 'fool' or 'insane' because he is being forced to boast, likely using the very insults his opponents threw at him. However, his boast is radically different from theirs. Instead of listing strengths or successes, he lists his sufferings, turning the idea of greatness on its head and demonstrating that true ministry is marked by sacrifice.
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2 Corinthians
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8
18th Century
Presbyterian
Are they ministers of Christ? Though Jews by birth, they still claimed to be the ministers of the Messiah.
I speak as a fool
As one beside himself (παραφρονων). Present active participle of παραφρονεω. Old verb from παραφρων (παρα, φρην), beside one's wit…
19th Century
Anglican
Are they ministers of Christ?—It is obvious that this title was claimed by the rival teachers in some special sense. They…
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When Paul turns from the matter of his nationality to that of achievement (vv.23–29), he lays claim to superiority over his rivals and begins to sp…
16th Century
Protestant
Are they ministers of Christ? Now when he is addressing matters truly praiseworthy, he is no longer satisfied with being equal with them, …
17th Century
Reformed Baptist
Are they ministers of Christ ? &c.] The apostle could have answered to this question that they were not, being neith…
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The apostle gives an account of his labors and sufferings; not out of pride or vainglory, but to the honor of God, who enabled him to do and suffer…
13th Century
Catholic
Having given the reasons for commending himself and the causes why the Corinthians should bear with him, the Apostle now begins his commendation. I…
