2 Corinthians 10:8

For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed:

For {G1063}{G2532} though {G1437}{G5037} I should boast {G2744} somewhat {G5100} more {G4055} of {G4012} our {G2257} authority {G1849}, which {G3739} the Lord {G2962} hath given {G1325} us {G2254} for {G1519} edification {G3619}, and {G2532} not {G3756} for {G1519} your {G5216} destruction {G2506}, I should {G153} not {G3756} be ashamed {G153}:

For even if I boast a little too much about the authority the Lord has given us — authority to build you up, not tear you down — I am not ashamed.

For even if I boast somewhat excessively about the authority the Lord gave us for building you up rather than tearing you down, I will not be ashamed.

For though I should glory somewhat abundantly concerning our authority (which the Lord gave for building you up, and not for casting you down), I shall not be put to shame:

Commentary

In 2 Corinthians 10:8, the Apostle Paul continues his robust defense of his apostolic ministry against those in Corinth who challenged his authority and legitimacy. He asserts that even if he were to boast "somewhat more" about the authority given to him, he would not be ashamed because its divine origin and benevolent purpose are clear.

Context

This verse is part of a crucial section (chapters 10-13) where Paul directly confronts the opposition and false apostles in the Corinthian church. His opponents likely accused him of being weak in person but bold in letters, questioning his true apostolic credentials. Paul is preparing to visit Corinth and is laying the groundwork for his actions, emphasizing that his authority, though firm, is always exercised with love and for the spiritual well-being of the believers, not for personal gain or malice. This passage underscores the spiritual warfare Paul was engaged in, not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual strongholds (2 Corinthians 10:4).

Key Themes

  • Divine Mandate of Authority: Paul explicitly states that his authority was "which the Lord hath given us." This highlights that his power and position were not self-appointed but divinely bestowed, making it legitimate and weighty. This concept is foundational to understanding true spiritual leadership.
  • Purpose of Spiritual Authority: The primary purpose of this God-given authority is "for edification, and not for your destruction." This is a foundational principle for all spiritual leadership. Authority is meant to build up, strengthen, and mature believers (Ephesians 4:12), not to tear down, oppress, or cause ruin.
  • Unashamed Confidence: Despite the accusations and challenges, Paul declares, "I should not be ashamed." His confidence stems from the pure source and beneficial intent of his authority, demonstrating his integrity and faithfulness to his divine commission, much like he often defended his apostleship (1 Corinthians 9:1).

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "authority" here is exousia (ἐξουσία), which signifies not just power, but also the right or liberty to act, often indicating a delegated power. Paul's authority is not inherent but granted by God. The term "edification" comes from oikodomē (οἰκοδομή), literally meaning "building up," referring to spiritual construction, growth, and the strengthening of the church body. Its direct opposite, "destruction," is kathairesis (καθαίρεσις), which means "pulling down" or "demolishing." This stark contrast underscores the positive and constructive nature of true apostolic power.

Practical Application

For believers today, this verse offers vital insights into the nature of true spiritual leadership and the use of authority within the church:

  • Discernment of Leadership: It provides a clear criterion for evaluating leaders: does their exercise of authority build up the people and the church, or does it tear down, control, or harm? Genuine God-given authority always aims for the spiritual growth and health of the flock.
  • Purpose-Driven Power: Any position of influence or power, whether in ministry, family, or community, should be wielded "for edification." It reminds us that our abilities and roles are gifts from God meant to serve others and advance His kingdom (Romans 12:6), not for selfish gain or destructive purposes.
  • Confidence in God's Call: Like Paul, when we operate within God's will and purpose for our lives, we can be confident and "not ashamed," even when facing opposition or misunderstanding. Our assurance comes from the Lord who gives the authority and defines its righteous use.

Paul's unwavering commitment to using his authority for the good of the Corinthian church serves as a timeless model for all who lead in God's name.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 2 Corinthians 13:10 (6 votes)

    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 1:24 (3 votes)

    Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand.

  • Galatians 1:1 (3 votes)

    ¶ Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;)

  • 2 Timothy 1:12 (3 votes)

    For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.

  • 2 Corinthians 13:2 (3 votes)

    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:

  • 2 Corinthians 13:3 (3 votes)

    Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is mighty in you.

  • 2 Corinthians 12:6 (3 votes)

    For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but [now] I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me [to be], or [that] he heareth of me.