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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers 2 Corinthians 1:15–24. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
The apostle here vindicates himself from the imputation of levity and inconstancy, in that he did not hold his purpose of coming to them at Corinth. His adversaries there sought all occasions to blemish his character, and reflect upon his conduct; and, it seemed, they took hold of this handle to reproach his person and discredit his ministry. Now, for his justification,
I.He avers the sincerity of his intention (Co2 1:15-17), and he does this in confidence of their good opinion of him, and that they would believe him, when he assured them he was minded, or did really intend, to come to them, and that with the design, not that he might receive, but that they might receive a second benefit, that is, a further advantage by his ministry. He tells them that he had not herein used lightness (Co2 1:17), that, as he aimed not at any secular advantage to himself (for his purpose was not according to the flesh, that is, with carnal views and aims), so it was not a rash and inconsiderate resolution that he had taken up, for he had laid his measures thus of passing by them to Macedonia, and coming again to them from Macedonia in his way to Judea (Co2 1:16), and therefore they might conclude that it was for some weighty reasons that he had altered his purpose; and that with him there was not yea yea, and nay nay, Co2 1:17. He was not to be accused of levity and inconstancy, nor a contradiction between his words and intentions. Note, Good men should be careful to preserve the reputation of sincerity and constancy; they should not resolve but upon mature deliberation, and they will not change their resolves but for weighty reasons.
II.He would not have the Corinthians to infer that his gospel was false or uncertain, nor that it was contradictory in itself, nor unto truth, Co2 1:18, Co2 1:19. For if it had been so, that he had been fickle in his purposes, or even false in the promises he made of coming to them (which he was not justly to be accused of, and so some understand his expression, Co2 1:18, Our word towards you was not yea and nay), yet it would not follow that the gospel preached not only by him, but also by others in full agreement with him, was either false or doubtful. For God is true, and the Son of God, Jesus Christ, is true. The true God, and eternal life. Jesus Christ, whom the apostle preached, is not yea and nay, but in him was yea (Co2 1:19), nothing but infallible truth. And the promises of God in Christ are not yea and nay, but yea and amen, Co2 1:20. There is an inviolable constancy and unquestionable sincerity and certainty in all the parts of the gospel of Christ. If in the promises that the ministers of the gospel make as common men, and about their own affairs, they see cause sometimes to vary from them, yet the promises of the gospel covenant, which they preach, stand firm and inviolable. Bad men are false; good men are fickle; but God is true, neither fickle nor false. The apostle, having mentioned the stability of the divine promises, makes a digression to illustrate this great and sweet truth, that all the promises of God are yea and amen. For,
1.They are the promises of the God of truth (Co2 1:20), of him that cannot lie, whose truth as well as mercy endureth for ever.
2.They are made in Christ Jesus (Co2 1:20), the Amen, the true and faithful witness; he hath purchased and ratified the covenant of promises, and is the surety of the covenant, Heb 7:22.
3.They are confirmed by the Holy Spirit. He does establish Christians in the faith of the gospel; he has anointed them with his sanctifying grace, which in scripture is often compared to oil; he has sealed them, for their security and confirmation; and he is given as an earnest in their hearts, Co2 1:21, Co2 1:22. An earnest secures the promise, and is part of the payment. The illumination of the Spirit is an earnest of everlasting life; and the comforts of the Spirit are an earnest of everlasting joy. Note, The veracity of God, the mediation of Christ, and the operation of the Spirit, are all engaged that the promises shall be sure to all the seed, and the accomplishment of them shall be to the glory of God (Co2 1:20) for the glory of his rich and sovereign grace, and never-failing truth and faithfulness.
III.The apostle gives a good reason why he did not come to Corinth, as was expected, Co2 1:23.
It was that he might spare them. They ought therefore to own his kindness and tenderness. He knew there were things amiss among them, and such as deserved censure, but was desirous to show tenderness. He assures them that this is the true reason, after this very solemn manner: I call God for a record upon my soul - a way of speaking not justifiable where used in trivial matters; but this was very justifiable in the apostle, for his necessary vindication, and for the credit and usefulness of his ministry, which was struck at by his opposers. He adds, to prevent mistakes, that he did not pretend to have any dominion over their faith, Co2 1:24. Christ only is the Lord of our faith; he is the author and finisher of our faith, Heb 12:2. He reveals to us what we must believe. Paul, and Apollos, and the rest of the apostles, were but ministers by whom they believed (Co1 3:5), and so the helpers of their joy, even the joy of faith. For by faith we stand firmly, and live safely and comfortably. Our strength and ability are owing to faith, and our comfort and joy must flow from faith.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
2 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
Select a marker to jump to its quote. Markers stagger vertically where authors wrote within a few decades of each other.
Paul dismisses the charge that he cannot be trusted by telling the Corinthians that he did not change his mind lightly. He had good reasons for not doing what he had originally planned. When a spiritually minded person does not do what he intends to, it is because he has in mind something more providential for the salvation of someone’s soul. The apostle did not carry out his original plan in order that the Corinthians might become better men and women. He delayed his coming specifically because there were some among them who had not purified themselves, and he was waiting for that to happen first. This is spiritual thinking. Carnal thinking, by contrast, makes changes of plan in order to suit personal desires, not in order to do what is beneficial.
"When I therefore was thus minded, did I show fickleness?"
Here in what follows, he directly does away with the charge arising out of his delay and absence. For what he says is of this nature. "I was minded to come unto you." "Wherefore then did I not come? Is it as light-minded and changeable?" for this is, "did I show fickleness?" By no means. But wherefore? "Because what things I purpose, I purpose not according to the flesh." What is, "not according to the flesh?" I purpose not "carnally."
"That with me there should be the yea yea and the nay nay."
But still even this is obscure. What is it then he says? The carnal man, that is, he that is rivetted to the present things and is continually occupied in them, and is without the sphere of the Spirit's influence, has power to go every where, and to wander whithersoever he will. But he that is the servant of the Spirit, and is led, and led about by Him, cannot everywhere be lord of his own purpose, having made it dependent upon the authority thence given; but it so fares with him as if a trusty servant, whose motions are always ruled by his lord's biddings and who has no power over himself nor is able to rest even a little, should make some promise to his fellow-servants, and then because his master would have it otherwise should fail to perform his promise. This then is what he means by, "I purpose not according to the flesh." I am not beyond the Spirit's governance, nor have liberty to go where I will. For I am subject to lordship and commands, the Comforter's, and by His decrees I am led, and led about. For this cause I was unable to come, for it was not the Spirit's will.
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Summary
In 2 Corinthians 1:17, the Apostle Paul vigorously defends his integrity and consistency to the Corinthian church. Accused of fickleness due to altered travel plans, Paul challenges these accusations with rhetorical questions, asserting that his decisions were not made out of "lightness" (frivolity or instability) or "according to the flesh" (selfish, worldly motives). He implies that his "yes" and "no" are unwavering, reflecting a commitment to truth and divine guidance rather than human caprice, thereby setting the stage for his profound declaration of God's unwavering faithfulness in Christ.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is deeply embedded within Paul's impassioned defense of his apostolic ministry and personal integrity, which forms a significant portion of 2 Corinthians, particularly chapters 1-7. Paul had initially planned to visit the Corinthians, then travel to Macedonia, and then return to Corinth (as indicated in 2 Corinthians 1:15-16). However, he altered these plans, choosing instead to send a severe letter (often referred to as the "painful letter," possibly 2 Corinthians 10-13 or a lost epistle) and sending Titus to assess the situation. This change in itinerary led some in Corinth to accuse Paul of being indecisive, unreliable, or even manipulative. Verse 17 directly addresses these accusations, with Paul using rhetorical questions to deny any such duplicity, thereby preparing the ground for his affirmation of God's steadfastness in 2 Corinthians 1:18-22. His defense of his personal character is inextricably linked to the truthfulness and authority of the Gospel he preaches.
Historical & Cultural Context
The Corinthian church was a complex community, marked by internal divisions, moral issues, and a tendency to question apostolic authority. Paul had a tumultuous relationship with them, characterized by both deep affection and painful confrontations. In the Greco-Roman world, a person's word, especially that of a public figure or a teacher, carried significant weight. To be accused of "lightness" or "fickleness" (elaphría) was a serious charge, implying a lack of trustworthiness and integrity. Furthermore, the concept of acting "according to the flesh" (kata sarka) would have resonated with the philosophical and religious distinctions between lower, worldly motives and higher, spiritual principles. Paul's audience would understand that such an accusation suggested his decisions were driven by self-interest, human weakness, or worldly expediency rather than by divine wisdom or genuine pastoral concern. Travel in the ancient world was arduous and subject to many unforeseen circumstances, yet Paul's detractors used his altered plans as a weapon against his credibility.
Key Themes
This verse contributes significantly to several major themes in 2 Corinthians and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it underscores the theme of Integrity and Consistency, both Paul's own and, by extension, God's. Paul vehemently denies operating with "lightness" or "according to the flesh," insisting that his "yea" truly means "yes" and his "nay" means "no," echoing Jesus' teaching on oaths in Matthew 5:37 and James 5:12. This emphasizes the importance of a leader's trustworthiness and the alignment of one's word with one's character. Secondly, it highlights the contrast between Divine Guidance vs. Fleshly Motives. Paul's defense implies that his decisions were not driven by worldly wisdom or self-interest, but by prayerful consideration and the leading of the Holy Spirit, aiming for the Corinthians' spiritual well-being. This sets up the profound theological truth that God's promises are steadfast, a theme powerfully articulated in 2 Corinthians 1:20. Finally, Paul's defense also reinforces his Apostolic Authority. If his reliability were undermined, his message and ministry could be dismissed. His steadfastness in word and deed is presented as a reflection of the steadfastness of the Gospel he proclaims.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
From boulē, meaning "to advise," "deliberate," or "resolve." In this context, it refers to Paul's process of forming intentions or purposes. Paul is questioning whether his deliberation and resolution regarding his travel plans were characterized by fickleness.
From elaphrós, meaning "levity" or "fickleness." This word denotes instability, superficiality, or a lack of seriousness and commitment. Paul is denying that his change of plans stemmed from a capricious or unreliable disposition.
This term, while literally referring to the physical body, often carries a deeper theological meaning in Paul's writings, signifying human nature apart from divine influence, characterized by weakness, sinfulness, and worldly motives. To purpose "according to the flesh" means to make decisions based on selfish desires, human expediency, or carnal inclinations, rather than spiritual discernment.
Verse Breakdown
"When I therefore was thus minded, did I use lightness?"
Paul begins with a rhetorical question, directly addressing the accusation that his change of travel plans was due to a lack of seriousness or an unstable character. The phrase "thus minded" refers to his previous intention to visit them. By asking "did I use lightness?", he vehemently denies that his deliberations or decisions were ever characterized by fickleness or irresponsibility. This sets up his defense against the perception of being unreliable.
"or the things that I purpose, do I purpose according to the flesh,"
This is the second part of Paul's rhetorical challenge, probing the deeper motivation behind his actions. He questions whether his intentions and plans are formed "according to the flesh," meaning driven by selfish desires, worldly wisdom, or human weakness, rather than by the Spirit of God. This implies an accusation from his detractors that his motives were carnal or self-serving, which Paul strongly refutes. He contrasts such human-centric planning with a Spirit-led approach.
"that with me there should be yea yea, and nay nay?"
This final clause expresses the consequence or implication of the preceding accusations. If Paul were indeed acting with "lightness" or "according to the flesh," the result would be duplicity or inconsistency in his word—his "yes" would not reliably mean "yes," and his "no" would not reliably mean "no." This phrase echoes Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount about the importance of simple, honest communication without the need for oaths. Paul is asserting that his word is steadfast and trustworthy, directly contradicting the notion that he is double-minded or unreliable.
Literary Devices
Paul masterfully employs several literary devices in this verse to convey his message. The primary device is the Rhetorical Question, as the entire verse is framed as two interrogative statements ("did I use lightness?" and "do I purpose according to the flesh?"). These questions are not posed to elicit information but to challenge the false assumptions of his accusers and to emphatically deny their charges, thereby asserting his integrity. Furthermore, Paul uses Antithesis by contrasting "lightness" (fickleness) and acting "according to the flesh" (carnal motives) with the implied steadfastness and spiritual guidance that truly characterized his decision-making. The phrase "yea yea, and nay nay" serves as an Allusion to Jesus' teaching in the Gospels, lending scriptural weight and moral authority to Paul's assertion of his unwavering commitment to truth and consistency in his communication.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Paul's defense of his consistency in 2 Corinthians 1:17 is not merely a personal vindication but a theological argument that establishes the reliability of the Gospel message itself. By denying that his word is "yea yea, and nay nay" (meaning inconsistent), Paul subtly shifts the focus from his own integrity to the ultimate integrity of God. He is preparing the Corinthians for the profound truth that if his human word, guided by the Spirit, is reliable, how much more reliable is the divine word, the promises of God, which are perfectly fulfilled in Christ. This passage underscores the biblical principle that true spiritual leadership is characterized by consistency and trustworthiness, reflecting the unchanging character of God. It also highlights the tension between human plans and divine leading, suggesting that changes in plans, when guided by God, are not signs of fickleness but of faithful obedience.
Reflection and Application
Paul's passionate defense in 2 Corinthians 1:17 offers profound lessons for believers today concerning integrity, discernment, and grace. We are called to be people of our word, whose "yes" means yes and "no" means no, not out of rigid legalism, but as an overflow of a heart committed to truth and reflecting God's own faithfulness. This cultivates trust in our relationships, strengthens our witness, and brings glory to God. Furthermore, Paul's distinction between "lightness" and acting "according to the flesh" compels us to examine the motivations behind our own decisions. Are our plans and commitments driven by fleeting desires, selfish ambition, or worldly expediency, or are they born out of prayerful seeking of God's will and a genuine desire to serve others? Finally, this passage invites us to extend grace to others when their plans change. Just as Paul desired the Corinthians to understand his Spirit-led adjustments, we too should be gracious in interpreting the actions of others, recognizing that sometimes changes are not signs of fickleness but of wisdom, love, or a response to new information or divine leading. Our ultimate reliance is on God's unchanging nature, which provides a steadfast anchor in a world of shifting circumstances.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did Paul change his travel plans, leading to these accusations?
Paul initially planned a double visit to Corinth: first, a quick stop on his way to Macedonia, and then a longer stay on his return (as suggested in 2 Corinthians 1:15-16). However, he decided against this plan, opting instead to write a severe letter (the "painful letter," possibly 2 Corinthians 10-13) and send Titus to address the serious issues within the church. His primary motivation for changing plans was pastoral love and concern, as he wanted to spare the Corinthians further pain and allow time for repentance before his next personal visit. He explains this in 2 Corinthians 1:23, stating he "spared" them.
What does it mean to "purpose according to the flesh" in this context?
To "purpose according to the flesh" (Greek: kata sarka) means to make decisions based on human nature, worldly wisdom, selfish desires, or carnal inclinations, rather than being guided by the Holy Spirit or divine principles. Paul is vehemently denying that his altered travel plans were motivated by self-interest, convenience, or a lack of spiritual discernment. He implies that his decisions were made in prayer and with the spiritual well-being of the Corinthians as his primary concern, in contrast to superficial or self-serving human motives. This concept is further explored in passages like Romans 8:5-8.
How does this verse relate to Jesus' teaching about "yea, yea; nay, nay"?
The phrase "yea yea, and nay nay" directly echoes Jesus' teaching in the Sermon on the Mount, found in Matthew 5:37, where He instructs His followers, "But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil." James also reiterates this in James 5:12. This teaching emphasizes the importance of simple, honest, and straightforward communication, where one's word is sufficient and trustworthy, without the need for oaths or elaborate affirmations. Paul is asserting that his own word aligns with this principle, denying any duplicity or inconsistency in his promises or intentions.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Paul's defense of his consistency in 2 Corinthians 1:17, though seemingly about personal integrity, ultimately serves as a profound Christ-centered declaration. By denying that his own "yea" and "nay" are inconsistent, Paul sets the stage for the glorious truth that God's "yes" is perfectly and eternally consistent in Christ. He immediately follows this verse by proclaiming, "For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us" (2 Corinthians 1:20). Jesus Christ is the ultimate embodiment of God's faithfulness; He is the "Amen," the divine affirmation of every promise God has ever made. Where human words and plans may falter or change, Christ remains steadfast, the unchanging Son of God (Hebrews 13:8). His life, death, and resurrection are the definitive "yes" to God's redemptive plan, ensuring that every promise of salvation, forgiveness, and eternal life finds its unwavering fulfillment in Him (Romans 15:8-9). Thus, Paul's personal integrity, though important, points beyond himself to the perfect, unshakeable integrity of Christ, in whom all of God's purposes are eternally secured.