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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 10:7–11. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
In these verses the apostle proceeds to reason the case with the Corinthians, in opposition to those who despised him, judged him, and spoke hardly of him: "Do you," says he, "look on things after the outward appearance? Co2 10:7. Is this a fit measure or rule to make an estimate of things or persons by, and to judge between me and my adversaries?" In outward appearance, Paul was mean and despicable with some; he did not make a figure, as perhaps some of his competitors might do: but this was a false rule to make a judgment by. It should seem that some boasted mighty things of themselves, and made a fair show. But there are often false appearances. A man may seem to be learned who has not learned Christ, and appear virtuous when he has not a principle of grace in his heart. However, the apostle asserts two things of himself: -
I.His relation to Christ:
If any man trust to himself that he is Christ's, even so are we Christ's, Co2 10:7. It would seem by this that Paul's adversaries boasted of their relation to Christ as his ministers and servants. Now the apostle reasons thus with the Corinthians: "Suppose it to be so, allowing what they say to be true (and let us observe that, in fair arguing, we should allow all that may be reasonably granted, and should not think it impossible but those who differ from us very much may yet belong to Christ, as well as we), allowing them," might the apostle say, "what they boast of, yet they ought also to allow this to us, that we also are Christ's." Note,
1.We must not, by the most charitable allowances we make to others who differ from us, cut ourselves off from Christ, nor deny our relation to him. For,
2.There is room in Christ for many; and those who differ much from one another may yet be one in him. It would help to heal the differences that are among us if we would remember that, how confident soever we may be that we belong to Christ, yet, at the same time, we must allow that those who differ from us may belong to Christ too, and therefore should be treated accordingly. We must not think that we are the people, and that none belong to Christ but ourselves. This we may plead for ourselves, against those who judge us and despise us that, how weak soever we are, yet, as they are Christ's, so are we: we profess the same faith, we walk by the same rule, we build upon the same foundation, and hope for the same inheritance.
II.His authority from Christ as an apostle.
This he had mentioned before (Co2 10:6), and now he tells them that he might speak of it again, and that with some sort of boasting, seeing it was a truth, that the Lord had given it to him, and it was more than his adversaries could justly pretend to. It was certainly what he should not be ashamed of, Co2 10:8. Concerning this observe,
1.The nature of his authority: it was for edification, and not for destruction. This indeed is the end of all authority, civil and ecclesiastical, and was the end of that extraordinary authority which the apostles had, and of all church-discipline.
2.The caution with which he speaks of his authority, professing that his design was not to terrify them with big words, nor by angry letters, Co2 10:9. Thus he seems to obviate an objection that might have been formed against him, Co2 10:10. But the apostle declares he did not intend to frighten those who were obedient, nor did he write any thing in his letters that he was not able to make good by deeds against the disobedient; and he would have his adversaries know this (Co2 10:11), that he would, by the exercise of his apostolical power committed to him, make it appear to have a real efficacy.
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.
"But that I may not seem as if I would terrify you: for his letters, say they, are weighty and strong: but his bodily presence is weak, and his speech of no account. Let such a one reckon this, that what we are in word by letters when we are absent, such are we also in deed when we are present."
What he says is this: 'I could boast indeed, but that they may not say the same things again, to wit, that I boast in my letters, and am contemptible when present, I will say nothing great.' And yet afterwards he did say something great, but not about this power by which he was formidable, but about revelations and at greater lengths about trials. 'Therefore, that I may not seem to be terrifying you, "let such an one reckon this, that what we are by letters when we are absent, such are we also in deed when we are present."' For since they said, 'he writes great things of himself, but when he is present he is worthy of no consideration,' therefore he says these things, and those again in a moderated form. For he did not say, 'as we write great things, so when we are present we also do great things,' but in more subdued phrase. For when he addressed himself to the others indeed, he stated it with vehemency, saying, "I beseech you that I may not when present show courage with the confidence wherewith I think to be bold against some:" but when to these, he is more subdued. And therefore he says, 'what we are when present, such too when absent, that is, lowly, modest, no where boasting. And it is plain from what follows.
Paul is saying all this precisely in order to avoid charges of this kind.
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Summary
This verse captures a specific criticism leveled against the Apostle Paul by some in the Corinthian church, highlighting a stark contrast between the perceived power and authority of his written letters and the perceived weakness and insignificance of his physical presence and spoken word. This accusation served as an attempt to undermine his apostolic legitimacy, forcing Paul to defend his ministry not on the basis of human charisma but on divine power and spiritual authenticity.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is situated within a crucial section of 2 Corinthians (chapters 10-13), where Paul vigorously defends his apostolic authority and ministry methods against challenging opponents in Corinth. Having addressed various issues in the earlier chapters, Paul now directly confronts those who questioned his legitimacy, integrity, and effectiveness as an apostle. These chapters are characterized by Paul's impassioned and sometimes sarcastic defense, where he contrasts his humble approach with the self-exalting methods of his detractors, often referred to as "super-apostles." The criticism in 2 Corinthians 10:10 is a direct quote of his opponents' assessment, which Paul then uses as a springboard to articulate the true nature of spiritual authority and warfare, emphasizing that his power comes from God, not from human eloquence or imposing presence.
Historical & Cultural Context
The city of Corinth was a bustling, cosmopolitan center, deeply influenced by Greek culture, which highly valued rhetoric, eloquence, and philosophical discourse. Public speakers and sophists, known for their persuasive oratory and impressive presence, were highly esteemed. In this environment, Paul, who intentionally chose not to preach with "excellency of speech or of wisdom" (1 Corinthians 2:1), would have appeared unimpressive to those accustomed to such standards. The "false apostles" or "super-apostles" who had infiltrated the Corinthian church likely embodied these Hellenistic ideals of charisma and rhetorical skill, making Paul's perceived lack of these qualities a point of attack. Their criticism was designed to diminish his influence by contrasting his perceived physical and oratorical weakness with the strength of his written word, which they could not deny.
Key Themes
2 Corinthians 10:10 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within 2 Corinthians and Paul's broader theology. Firstly, it highlights the theme of Apostolic Authority, as Paul's defense throughout this letter is rooted in the divine source of his authority, not human accolades or outward appearances. The accusation was a direct attempt to diminish his standing. Secondly, it vividly illustrates the theme of Perception vs. Reality, showcasing the disconnect between outward appearance and spiritual substance. Critics judged Paul by human standards of charisma and eloquence, missing the divine power that genuinely accompanied his ministry. This aligns with the biblical principle that "man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7). Thirdly, and perhaps most profoundly, this criticism ironically aligns with Paul's own theology of Strength in Weakness, a foundational concept articulated most clearly in 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, where he declares that God's power is "made perfect in weakness." His "weak" presence allowed God's strength to be more evident, demonstrating that true spiritual power is not of human origin but divine. Lastly, the verse implicitly underscores The Power of the Written Word, as even Paul's critics acknowledged the "weighty and powerful" nature of his letters, demonstrating the enduring impact of divinely inspired Scripture.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
Meaning "heavy, burdensome, grave." In this context, it refers to the substantial, serious, and impactful nature of Paul's written communication. His letters carried significant theological depth, moral authority, and spiritual force, making them "heavy" in their content and effect, not easily dismissed.
Meaning "strengthless, feeble, sickly, or lacking strength." This term could refer to Paul's physical stature, health, or a perceived lack of imposing presence or physical vigor. It suggests a contrast with the robust, commanding presence expected of a leader or orator in the Greco-Roman world.
Meaning "despised, insignificant, or treated with contempt." This word indicates that Paul's public speaking style or manner was considered unimpressive, perhaps even beneath contempt, failing to meet the sophisticated rhetorical standards valued by his critics in Corinth. It implies a sense of disdain or dismissal regarding his oral communication.
Verse Breakdown
"For [his] letters, say they, [are] weighty and powerful;"
This clause reveals the critics' grudging admission that Paul's written correspondence possessed significant authority and impact. The words "weighty" (barýs) and "powerful" (ischyrós) acknowledge the substantial, forceful, and effective nature of his epistles. This suggests that even his detractors felt the force of his arguments and the spiritual authority conveyed through his writings, perhaps finding them difficult to refute. The phrase "say they" (phēmí) highlights that this is a direct quote or summary of their specific accusation.
"but [his] bodily presence [is] weak, "
This part introduces a sharp contrast using the particle "but" (dé). The critics claim that Paul's physical presence (parousía) lacked impressiveness or authority. The term "weak" (asthenḗs) could allude to his physical appearance, stature, or perhaps a perceived lack of charisma or commanding demeanor when he was present in person. This suggests that he did not fit the mold of the imposing, charismatic leader admired in their culture.
"and [his] speech contemptible."
This final clause further elaborates on the perceived deficiency in Paul's oral communication. His "speech" (lógos), referring to his spoken word or preaching, was deemed "contemptible" (exouthenéō), meaning despised, insignificant, or utterly unimpressive. This likely refers to his lack of rhetorical flair, eloquent delivery, or philosophical sophistication that was highly valued in Corinthian society, leading his opponents to dismiss his verbal ministry as unworthy of serious consideration.
Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs Antithesis, creating a sharp contrast between two opposing perceptions of Paul's ministry: the perceived strength and impact of his written word versus the perceived weakness and insignificance of his physical presence and spoken word. This stark juxtaposition highlights the critics' double standard and their reliance on outward appearances. There is also a subtle layer of Irony at play, as the very weakness and lack of worldly eloquence that his critics derided were precisely what Paul embraced as the means through which God's power was made manifest (2 Corinthians 12:9). The critics' words, intended to discredit Paul, inadvertently confirm the spiritual potency of his letters and set the stage for Paul to articulate his profound theology of strength in weakness.
Theological and Thematic Connections
This verse profoundly speaks to the nature of true spiritual authority and the methods of God's kingdom. It challenges the human tendency to evaluate spiritual effectiveness based on outward charisma, eloquence, or impressive physical presence, rather than on the anointing of the Holy Spirit and faithfulness to divine truth. Paul's experience demonstrates that God often chooses to work through seemingly weak or unimpressive vessels, precisely so that the power displayed is clearly recognized as God's and not man's. This divine strategy ensures that all glory redounds to God, preventing human pride and fostering a reliance on His strength rather than our own. The enduring impact of Paul's "weighty and powerful" letters, despite his perceived personal deficiencies, underscores the timeless and transformative power of God's inspired Word, which transcends human limitations.
Reflection and Application
2 Corinthians 10:10 offers profound and timeless lessons for believers today, challenging our often superficial evaluations of spiritual leadership and personal ministry. It calls us to look beyond outward charisma, eloquence, or impressive physical presence, and instead discern true spiritual power by its fruit, its faithfulness to God's Word, and its reliance on the Holy Spirit. We are reminded that God frequently chooses and empowers those whom the world might deem "weak" or "contemptible," precisely to demonstrate that the power is His alone. This should encourage humility in those who serve and discernment in those who observe. Furthermore, it invites us to embrace our own perceived weaknesses, knowing that these very areas can become conduits for God's strength and glory, just as they were for Paul. The verse also reinforces the enduring authority and transformative power of the written Word of God, which continues to be "weighty and powerful" across generations, speaking truth and building up the church regardless of the human messenger's outward presentation.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why were Paul's letters considered "weighty and powerful" but his presence "weak" and his speech "contemptible"?
The contrast described in 2 Corinthians 10:10 reflects the differing perceptions of Paul by his critics in Corinth. His letters were "weighty" (barýs, meaning substantial, serious, authoritative) and "powerful" (ischyrós, meaning strong, forceful) because they conveyed profound theological truth, apostolic authority, and the Spirit's anointing. They were carefully crafted, deeply reasoned, and often delivered with a directness that resonated with spiritual force. In contrast, his "bodily presence" was perceived as "weak" (asthenḗs, meaning feeble or lacking strength), possibly referring to his physical stature, health issues (like the "thorn in the flesh" mentioned in 2 Corinthians 12:7), or a general lack of imposing demeanor. His "speech" was deemed "contemptible" (exouthenéō, meaning despised or insignificant) because he intentionally eschewed the eloquent, rhetorical flourishes highly valued in Greek culture, choosing instead to preach "not with words of eloquent wisdom" but "in demonstration of the Spirit and of power" (1 Corinthians 2:1-4). His critics, valuing human charisma and rhetorical skill, misinterpreted his humble approach as a sign of weakness, failing to recognize the divine power at work through him.
Who were "they" who said this about Paul, and why were they criticizing him?
The "they" in 2 Corinthians 10:10 refers to Paul's opponents in the Corinthian church, often identified as "false apostles" or "super-apostles" (as Paul sarcastically calls them in 2 Corinthians 11:5). These individuals had infiltrated the Corinthian community and were actively undermining Paul's apostolic authority and ministry. They likely boasted of their own impressive credentials, rhetorical abilities, and perhaps even miraculous signs, presenting themselves as superior to Paul. Their criticism of Paul's physical presence and speaking style was a deliberate tactic to discredit him in the eyes of the Corinthians, who, influenced by their Hellenistic culture, highly valued outward show and eloquent oratory. By highlighting Paul's perceived deficiencies, they sought to draw followers away from him and toward themselves, challenging his legitimacy and the authenticity of his gospel message.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
The perceived weakness of Paul's bodily presence and speech, contrasted with the power of his written word, finds a profound Christ-centered fulfillment in the person and ministry of Jesus Himself. Just as Paul's critics judged him by outward appearances, so too was Christ "despised and rejected by men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief; and as one from whom men hide their faces he was despised, and we esteemed him not" (Isaiah 53:3). Jesus did not come with outward pomp or worldly power, but in humility, embodying the very "weakness" that Paul later embraced. His ultimate act of power, the crucifixion, appeared to be the epitome of weakness and defeat to the world, yet it was precisely through this "weakness" that God accomplished the greatest act of salvation and demonstrated His ultimate power and wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:18). Thus, Paul's experience in 2 Corinthians 10:10 is a direct echo of his Lord's ministry: God's power is often revealed not through human strength or worldly impressiveness, but through humble, even "contemptible," means, ensuring that all glory belongs to Him and that the true source of authority and transformation is divine, not human. The "weighty and powerful" truth of the gospel, whether spoken or written, ultimately derives its authority from Christ, the living Word (John 1:1), whose power is perfected in weakness for the salvation of all who believe (Romans 1:16).