2 Corinthians 10:2

KJV

But I beseech [you], that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence, wherewith I think to be bold against some, which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} I beseech {G1189} you, that I may not {G3361} be bold {G2292} when I am present {G3918} with that confidence {G4006}, wherewith {G3739} I think {G3049} to be bold {G5111} against {G1909} some {G5100}, which {G3588} think {G3049} of us {G2248} as {G5613} if we walked {G4043} according {G2596} to the flesh {G4561}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But I beg you not to force me to be intimidating when I am with you, as I expect to be toward some who regard us as living in a worldly way.

Berean Standard Bible

I beg you that when I come I may not need to be as bold as I expect toward those who presume that we live according to the flesh.

American Standard Version

yea, I beseech you, that I may not when present show courage with the confidence wherewith I count to be bold against some, who count of us as if we walked according to the flesh.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Corinthians 10:2, the Apostle Paul articulates his earnest desire to avoid exercising a confrontational boldness when he is physically present with the Corinthian church. This preferred gentleness stands in stark contrast to the firm confidence he is prepared to demonstrate against those who wrongly accuse him and his fellow ministers of operating according to worldly principles, or "walking according to the flesh." The verse underscores Paul's pastoral heart while simultaneously asserting his readiness to wield apostolic authority against unrepentant opposition.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse marks a significant shift in Paul's second letter to the Corinthians. Chapters 1-9 are characterized by themes of reconciliation, comfort, and the joy of partnership in the gospel, culminating in an appeal for generous giving. However, beginning with chapter 10, Paul adopts a much more direct, assertive, and defensive tone. He confronts a faction within the Corinthian church, likely influenced by "super-apostles" or false teachers, who were actively undermining his authority and ministry. [2 Corinthians 10:1](/2_corinthians/10-1 "2 Corinthians 10:1 - Paul's Gentle Appeal") immediately precedes this verse, where Paul appeals to the Corinthians "by the meekness and gentleness of Christ," setting up the tension between his preferred approach and the necessary sternness he might have to employ. The subsequent verses in [2 Corinthians 10:3-6](/2_corinthians/10-3-6 "2 Corinthians 10:3-6 - Spiritual Warfare") further elaborate on the spiritual nature of his warfare, directly refuting the accusation that he operates "according to the flesh."
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Corinth was a bustling, cosmopolitan trade center known for its wealth, diverse population, and moral laxity. The Corinthian church, though founded by Paul, struggled with internal divisions, spiritual immaturity, and the influence of Hellenistic rhetoric and philosophy. Paul's opponents in Corinth likely valued eloquent speech, impressive human credentials, and outward displays of power, contrasting these with Paul's often humble demeanor and lack of sophisticated rhetorical prowess. They accused him of being "weak in bodily presence, and his speech contemptible" ([2 Corinthians 10:10](/2_corinthians/10-10 "2 Corinthians 10:10 - Paul's Appearance and Speech")). The charge of "walking according to the flesh" was a grave accusation in this context, implying that Paul's motivations and methods were earthly, self-serving, or driven by human weakness rather than divine inspiration and power. This was a common critique leveled against those perceived as lacking spiritual gravitas or operating outside accepted societal norms of influence.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes in 2 Corinthians. Firstly, it highlights the theme of **Apostolic Authority and its Proper Exercise**. Paul asserts his God-given authority, not for personal gain or worldly power, but for the spiritual edification of the church, even if it requires disciplinary action ([2 Corinthians 13:10](/2_corinthians/13-10 "2 Corinthians 13:10 - Authority for Edification")). Secondly, it underscores the profound **Contrast Between Spiritual and Carnal Living/Ministry**. The accusation that Paul "walked according to the flesh" forces him to articulate the divine nature of his ministry, emphasizing that while he lives in the physical body, his warfare is not waged by human means but by God's power ([2 Corinthians 10:3-4](/2_corinthians/10-3-4 "2 Corinthians 10:3-4 - Weapons of Warfare")). Lastly, Paul's expressed desire to avoid harshness reveals his **Pastoral Heart and Reluctance to Discipline**. Despite his resolve to confront error, his preference is always for the Corinthians' repentance and restoration, demonstrating a deep love and concern for their spiritual well-being. This aligns with the broader theme of God's power being perfected in weakness ([2 Corinthians 12:9](/2_corinthians/12-9 "2 Corinthians 12:9 - God's Grace in Weakness")), as Paul's apparent "weakness" was, in fact, a conduit for God's strength.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **bold (Greek, _tharrhéō'_):** This word (G2292) signifies "to exercise courage," "to be confident." In this context, it carries the nuance of acting with decisive authority, particularly in a confrontational or disciplinary manner. Paul desires not to be forced into such a posture when he is present, implying he prefers a more gentle, persuasive approach. However, he is fully prepared to be bold against those who challenge his divine commission.
* **think (Greek, _logízomai'_):** Occurring twice in the verse (G3049), this verb means "to take an inventory," "to estimate," "to reckon," or "to suppose." Its double use is crucial: Paul "thinks" (reckons, intends) to be bold against certain individuals, and these individuals "think" (reckon, suppose) that Paul walks according to the flesh. This highlights a battle of perceptions and judgments, where Paul is correcting a faulty assessment of his character and ministry.
* **flesh (Greek, _sárx'_):** This term (G4561) refers to "flesh" in its broadest sense, but here, in the phrase "walked according to the flesh," it signifies human nature with its inherent frailties, weaknesses, and passions, particularly as opposed to divine power or spiritual principles. To "walk according to the flesh" (using _katá_ G2596, "according to," in conjunction with _sárx_) means to live, operate, or be motivated by human standards, worldly wisdom, or carnal desires, rather than by the Spirit of God. Paul vehemently denies this accusation, asserting that his ministry, though outwardly unimpressive to some, is profoundly spiritual.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But I beseech [you], that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence,"**: Paul opens with a plea, expressing his earnest desire to avoid a confrontational demeanor upon his arrival. The "confidence" (pepoíthēsis, G4006) he refers to is the assuredness of his apostolic authority, which he is prepared to use. His preference is for the Corinthians to respond to his previous appeals, making stern measures unnecessary. This reveals his pastoral heart, desiring reconciliation over confrontation.
* **"wherewith I think to be bold against some,"**: This clause reveals Paul's resolve and the specific target of his potential "boldness." He "thinks" or intends to exercise his authority against a particular group—those who are actively opposing him and causing division. This is not a general threat but a targeted warning to specific individuals or factions who are undermining the church's spiritual health.
* **"which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh."**: This final clause clarifies the nature of the opposition and the accusation leveled against Paul. His opponents perceive him and his ministry as operating on worldly principles, driven by human weakness or self-interest, rather than by divine power and spiritual integrity. This was a serious charge, implying a lack of genuine spiritual authority and a reliance on carnal methods. Paul's subsequent arguments in chapter 10 are a direct refutation of this slander.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs a powerful use of **Antithesis** in this verse, contrasting his preferred gentle approach with the firm, bold confidence he is prepared to exercise. This highlights the tension between his pastoral heart and his apostolic responsibility. There is also an element of **Irony** in the opponents' accusation: they claim Paul "walks according to the flesh," yet their own judgments and methods are often characterized by worldly standards and human pride, precisely what they accuse Paul of. Furthermore, the phrase "walked according to the flesh" serves as a **Metaphor** for a life or ministry governed by human rather than divine principles, emphasizing a fundamental spiritual distinction.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's declaration in 2 Corinthians 10:2 underscores a critical theological principle: authentic spiritual authority is not exercised for personal gain or worldly dominance, but for the edification and spiritual health of the church. While Paul prefers to minister with gentleness and persuasion, he recognizes that true love for the flock sometimes necessitates firm correction and the wielding of God-given authority against those who sow discord or promote false teaching. This balance between grace and truth, gentleness and firmness, reflects the character of Christ himself and is a hallmark of godly leadership. The accusation of "walking according to the flesh" also brings to the forefront the perpetual tension between the spiritual and the carnal, reminding believers that true Christian life and ministry are empowered by the Holy Spirit, not by human wisdom or strength.

* [2 Corinthians 13:10](/2_corinthians/13-10 "2 Corinthians 13:10 - Paul's Authority for Building Up")
* [Galatians 5:16-17](/galatians/5-16-17 "Galatians 5:16-17 - Walking by the Spirit")
* [1 Corinthians 2:4-5](/1_corinthians/2-4-5 "1 Corinthians 2:4-5 - Power of the Spirit")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
2 Corinthians 10:2 offers profound insights for both leaders and all believers. For those in spiritual authority, it highlights the delicate balance between compassionate pastoral care and the necessary exercise of discipline. True leadership seeks to build up, not tear down, and prefers reconciliation over confrontation. However, it also recognizes that faithfulness to God's truth sometimes demands a firm stand against error and unrepentant sin, always with the aim of restoring individuals and protecting the integrity of the community. For every believer, this verse challenges us to examine our own lives and ministries: are we truly operating "according to the Spirit" or are we subtly influenced by worldly values, human wisdom, or self-serving motives? Our methods, motivations, and the source of our strength reveal whether we are walking according to the flesh or according to the Spirit.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life or ministry might I be tempted to operate "according to the flesh" rather than relying on God's Spirit?**
* **How can I cultivate a balance of gentleness and firmness in my relationships, particularly when confronting difficult truths?**
* **What does it mean for me, personally, to "take every thought captive to obey Christ" as Paul describes in [2 Corinthians 10:5](/2_corinthians/10-5 "2 Corinthians 10:5 - Taking Thoughts Captive")?**

### FAQ
**What does "walking according to the flesh" mean in this context?**

Answer: In 2 Corinthians 10:2, "walking according to the flesh" (Greek: _kata sarka peripatoumen_) does not primarily refer to immoral or licentious behavior, though that is one aspect of "the flesh" in other contexts. Here, it signifies operating according to human standards, worldly wisdom, carnal strength, or self-serving motives, as opposed to being guided by God's Spirit and divine power. Paul's opponents accused him of lacking true spiritual authority and relying on human manipulation or weakness, which he vehemently refutes in [2 Corinthians 10:3-4](/2_corinthians/10-3-4 "2 Corinthians 10:3-4 - Spiritual Weapons"). He emphasizes that while he lives in the flesh, his warfare is not carnal but spiritual.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's struggle and resolve in 2 Corinthians 10:2 find their ultimate fulfillment and pattern in Christ. Jesus, though possessing all authority in heaven and on earth ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")), often ministered with profound humility and gentleness, appealing to hearts rather than coercing them ([Matthew 11:29](/matthew/11-29 "Matthew 11:29 - Jesus' Gentle Yoke")). Yet, He also demonstrated unwavering boldness and righteous indignation against hypocrisy and spiritual corruption, overturning tables in the temple ([John 2:13-17](/john/2-13-17 "John 2:13-17 - Jesus Cleanses the Temple")) and directly confronting the self-righteous religious leaders ([Matthew 23:13-36](/matthew/23-13-36 "Matthew 23:13-36 - Woes to the Scribes and Pharisees")). The accusation of "walking according to the flesh" leveled against Paul also echoes the world's misunderstanding of Christ, who was "despised and rejected by men" ([Isaiah 53:3](/isaiah/53-3 "Isaiah 53:3 - Suffering Servant")), yet His apparent weakness on the cross was the ultimate display of divine power and love, conquering sin and death ([1 Corinthians 1:23-25](/1_corinthians/1-23-25 "1 Corinthians 1:23-25 - Christ Crucified, God's Power")). Paul's ministry, like Christ's, was not about outward show or human wisdom, but about manifesting the power of God through apparent weakness, leading to the spiritual transformation of lives, a work only possible through the Spirit of Christ.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Corinthians 13:10

Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the power which the Lord hath given me to edification, and not to destruction.

2 Corinthians 13:2

I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second time; and being absent now I write to them which heretofore have sinned, and to all other, that, if I come again, I will not spare:

Galatians 5:16

[This] I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.

Galatians 5:25

If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

Ephesians 2:2

Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:

Ephesians 2:3

Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.

1 Corinthians 4:18

Now some are puffed up, as though I would not come to you.