2 Corinthians 11:10

As the truth of Christ is in me, no man shall stop me of this boasting in the regions of Achaia.

As the truth {G225} of Christ {G5547} is {G2076} in {G1722} me {G1698},{G3754} no man {G3756} shall stop {G4972}{G5420} me {G1519}{G1691} of this {G3778} boasting {G2746} in {G1722} the regions {G2824} of Achaia {G882}.

The truthfulness of the Messiah is in me, so that this boast concerning me is not going to be silenced anywhere in Achaia.

As surely as the truth of Christ is in me, this boasting of mine will not be silenced in the regions of Achaia.

As the truth of Christ is in me, no man shall stop me of this glorying in the regions of Achaia.

Commentary

In 2 Corinthians 11:10, the Apostle Paul makes a powerful declaration regarding his refusal to accept financial support from the Corinthian church, contrasting his conduct with that of others. This verse is part of his impassioned defense of his apostolic ministry against false teachers who were undermining his authority and corrupting the believers in Corinth.

Context

Paul's statement here is deeply rooted in the contentious situation within the Corinthian church. He had chosen not to be a financial burden to them, a practice he maintained even when it meant working with his own hands as a tentmaker (1 Corinthians 9:18, 2 Thessalonians 3:8). This was unusual for itinerant teachers of the time, and Paul's opponents, often referred to as "super-apostles" (2 Corinthians 11:5), likely exploited this, suggesting he was not a 'true' apostle because he didn't demand support. Paul, however, saw his self-sufficiency as a mark of his integrity and a way to remove any potential obstacle or accusation that he preached the Gospel for financial gain. The "regions of Achaia" refers to the Roman province in Greece where Corinth was located, emphasizing the widespread nature of his commitment.

Key Themes

  • Apostolic Integrity and Authority: Paul's refusal to accept payment was a tangible demonstration of his pure motives and the uncorrupted nature of his ministry. He was willing to sacrifice personal comfort to uphold the integrity of the Gospel.
  • Boasting in Humility: While Paul often warns against boasting in oneself, here his "boasting" (Greek: kauchesis) is not prideful self-exaltation but a firm assertion of his righteous conduct and self-sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel. It's a defense of his character against slander.
  • Financial Independence in Ministry: This verse highlights a principle for ministry: avoiding any appearance of greed or exploitation. Paul's commitment was to preach the good news freely and without impediment, ensuring that no one could accuse him of ulterior motives.
  • The Truth of Christ: Paul's declaration, "As the truth of Christ is in me," underscores that his actions are not merely personal preferences but are rooted in the very character and truthfulness of Jesus Christ. His life and ministry were to reflect Christ's own unwavering integrity.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "truth of Christ" (Greek: aletheia Christou) emphasizes the deep connection between Paul's personal integrity and the divine truth he proclaimed. It's not just a subjective feeling but an objective reality that permeated his being and defined his actions. His unwavering stance was as certain as the reality of Christ's truth.

Practical Application

For believers today, 2 Corinthians 11:10 offers important lessons on integrity, especially for those in leadership or ministry. It encourages:

  • Transparency and Purity of Motive: Leaders should strive to conduct their ministries in such a way that no one can justly accuse them of seeking personal gain over the spiritual welfare of others.
  • Defending the Truth: When faced with false accusations or challenges to one's character, it is sometimes necessary to assert one's righteous conduct, not out of pride, but to protect the reputation of the Gospel.
  • Sacrificial Service: Paul's example reminds us that true service to Christ often involves personal sacrifice and a willingness to forgo rights or comforts for the greater good of the message and the people.

This verse powerfully illustrates Paul's commitment to preach the Gospel without hindrance, safeguarding its purity and his own apostolic calling.

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Cross-References

  • Romans 9:1

    ¶ I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost,

  • Acts 18:12

    ¶ And when Gallio was the deputy of Achaia, the Jews made insurrection with one accord against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat,

  • Romans 1:9

    For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;

  • 2 Corinthians 1:23

    Moreover I call God for a record upon my soul, that to spare you I came not as yet unto Corinth.

  • 2 Corinthians 10:15

    Not boasting of things without [our] measure, [that is], of other men's labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly,

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:10

    Ye [are] witnesses, and God [also], how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe:

  • 1 Corinthians 16:15

    I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and [that] they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,)
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