2 Corinthians 11:20

KJV

For ye suffer, if a man bring you into bondage, if a man devour [you], if a man take [of you], if a man exalt himself, if a man smite you on the face.

KJV (with Strong's)

For {G1063} ye suffer {G430}, if a man {G1536} bring {G2615} you {G5209} into bondage {G2615}, if a man {G1536} devour {G2719} you, if a man {G1536} take {G2983} of you, if a man {G1536} exalt himself {G1869}, if a man {G1536} smite {G1194} you {G5209} on {G1519} the face {G4383}.

Complete Jewish Bible

You put up with it if someone makes slaves of you, exploits you, takes you in, puffs himself up, slaps you in the face.

Berean Standard Bible

In fact, you even put up with anyone who enslaves you or exploits you or takes advantage of you or exalts himself or strikes you in the face.

American Standard Version

For ye bear with a man, if he bringeth you into bondage, if he devoureth you, if he taketh you captive, if he exalteth himself, if he smiteth you on the face.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Paul employs sharp irony to expose the hypocrisy of the Corinthian believers, who, despite their supposed wisdom, readily tolerate severe exploitation and abuse from false apostles while simultaneously questioning Paul's legitimate ministry. This verse vividly catalogs the various forms of subjugation—enslavement, financial predation, usurpation, arrogance, and physical assault—that the Corinthians endured without complaint from those who sought to control and profit from them, starkly contrasting with Paul's own self-sacrificing and gentle approach.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a pivotal moment in Paul's "foolish boasting" section, which begins in [2 Corinthians 11:1](/2_corinthians/11-1 "2 Corinthians 11:1 - Paul's 'Foolish Boasting'"). Paul reluctantly adopts the rhetorical style of his opponents, the "super-apostles," to defend his apostolic authority and genuine care for the Corinthian church. Following his sarcastic remark in [2 Corinthians 11:19](/2_corinthians/11-19 "2 Corinthians 11:19 - Suffering Fools Gladly"), where he states, "For ye suffer fools gladly, seeing ye yourselves are wise," verse 20 serves as the shocking evidence of the Corinthians' "wisdom." He lists the egregious behaviors of the false teachers, implicitly contrasting them with his own conduct, which never involved such exploitation. The subsequent verses, particularly [2 Corinthians 11:23-28](/2_corinthians/11-23-28 "2 Corinthians 11:23-28 - Paul's Sufferings for Christ"), detail Paul's own sufferings and sacrifices, further highlighting the chasm between true and false apostleship.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Corinthian church was a vibrant but problematic community, situated in a wealthy, cosmopolitan Roman city known for its diverse religious practices and philosophical schools. This environment made it susceptible to various influences, including itinerant teachers and rhetoricians who often sought financial gain and personal prestige. The "super-apostles" Paul refers to were likely eloquent, charismatic individuals who boasted of their spiritual experiences, Jewish heritage, or rhetorical prowess, contrasting themselves with Paul's seemingly unimpressive presence and plain speech ([2 Corinthians 10:10](/2_corinthians/10-10 "2 Corinthians 10:10 - Paul's Appearance and Speech")). These false teachers likely demanded financial support, asserted their authority, and possibly even engaged in physical intimidation, exploiting the Corinthians' desire for spiritual experiences or impressive leadership. The fact that the Corinthians tolerated such abuse from these individuals, while criticizing Paul for not taking support from them, underscores the cultural value placed on outward displays of power and eloquence.
* **Key Themes:** [2 Corinthians 11:20](/2_corinthians/11-20 "2 Corinthians 11:20 - Paul's Irony Regarding False Apostles") contributes significantly to several key themes in 2 Corinthians. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates the theme of **true versus false apostleship**, contrasting Paul's self-sacrificial service with the exploitative nature of the "super-apostles." Secondly, it highlights the **discernment (or lack thereof)** within the Corinthian church, as they readily accept abuse from imposters while questioning their genuine spiritual father. This ties into the broader theme of **spiritual maturity** and the need for believers to "test the spirits" ([1 John 4:1](/1_john/4-1 "1 John 4:1 - Test the Spirits")). Thirdly, the verse underscores the **irony and sarcasm** Paul employs as a rhetorical strategy to shame and awaken the Corinthians to their folly. Finally, it touches on the theme of **suffering and weakness** as marks of true ministry, as Paul's own endured hardships ([2 Corinthians 11:23-28](/2_corinthians/11-23-28 "2 Corinthians 11:23-28 - Paul's Sufferings")) stand in stark contrast to the self-exaltation of the false teachers.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **bring you into bondage (Greek, _katadoulóō'_):** Derived from `κατά` (down) and `δουλόω` (to enslave), this verb means "to enslave utterly" or "to bring into servitude." It suggests a complete loss of freedom, indicating that the false teachers were not merely exercising influence but actively subjugating the Corinthians, potentially spiritually, financially, or even socially, bringing them under a yoke of control.
* **devour (Greek, _katesthíō'_):** A compound of `κατά` (down) and `ἐσθίω` (to eat), meaning "to eat down" or "to consume entirely." In this context, it strongly implies financial exploitation, where the false teachers were draining the resources of the Corinthian believers for their own personal gain, leaving them depleted.
* **smite (Greek, _dérō'_):** A primary verb meaning "to flay," and by implication, "to scourge" or "to thrash." When combined with "on the face," it paints a vivid picture of physical abuse and extreme humiliation. This was not merely a light slap but a violent, demeaning act, signifying contempt and the complete subjugation of the individual.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"For ye suffer, if a man bring you into bondage":** Paul begins by stating the Corinthians' tolerance ("ye suffer"). The first specific abuse is enslavement, indicating that the false teachers were not merely influencing but actively subjugating the believers, stripping them of their freedom and autonomy, perhaps by imposing strict rules, demanding absolute obedience, or controlling their lives.
* **"if a man devour [you]":** This clause highlights financial exploitation. The false teachers were "eating up" the Corinthians' resources, consuming their wealth and livelihood for their own benefit, leaving the church diminished and impoverished. This contrasts sharply with Paul's refusal to take financial support from them.
* **"if a man take [of you]":** This phrase, using the general verb "to take," suggests various forms of appropriation or usurpation. It could mean seizing possessions, demanding tribute, taking advantage of their generosity, or even asserting control over their spiritual gifts or ministries for personal gain.
* **"if a man exalt himself":** This refers to the arrogance and self-aggrandizement of the false teachers. They were lifting themselves up, boasting of their own perceived superiority and authority, seeking to dominate rather than serve the flock. This directly opposes the humility and servant-leadership exemplified by Christ and Paul.
* **"if a man smite you on the face":** This is the most shocking and visceral image, depicting physical assault and profound humiliation. To be struck on the face was a grave insult and a public display of contempt and dominance. The Corinthians' willingness to endure such an indignity from these false leaders underscores their alarming lack of discernment and self-respect.

#### Literary Devices
Paul's rhetorical brilliance is on full display in [2 Corinthians 11:20](/2_corinthians/11-20 "2 Corinthians 11:20 - Paul's Irony Regarding False Apostles"). The primary device is **Irony**, as Paul sarcastically praises the Corinthians' "wisdom" for tolerating such egregious abuses, implicitly shaming them for their lack of discernment. He uses **Parallelism** through the repeated phrase "if a man," which emphasizes the consistent pattern of exploitation by the false teachers and builds a cumulative sense of outrage. The list of abuses itself employs **Hyperbole** or at least highly charged language, particularly "smite you on the face," to evoke a strong emotional response and highlight the extreme nature of the mistreatment. This vivid imagery creates a powerful contrast with Paul's own gentle and self-sacrificing ministry, serving as a form of **Argumentum ad Hominem** (though not fallacious here, as it points to true character) by exposing the true nature of his opponents through their actions.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse serves as a stark warning against spiritual abuse and the dangers of uncritical acceptance of charismatic but exploitative leadership. Theologically, it underscores the importance of discernment, reminding believers that true spiritual authority is characterized by humility, service, and genuine care for the flock, not by self-exaltation, financial gain, or domineering control. It highlights the vulnerability of believers to those who "come in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves" ([Matthew 7:15](/matthew/7-15 "Matthew 7:15 - False Prophets")). The Corinthians' tolerance of such abuse reveals a spiritual immaturity and a failure to recognize the true marks of authentic ministry, which are often found in weakness and suffering for Christ's sake, rather than worldly power and prestige.

* [Matthew 7:15-16](/matthew/7-15-16 "Matthew 7:15-16 - False Prophets and Their Fruits")
* [1 Peter 5:2-3](/1_peter/5-2-3 "1 Peter 5:2-3 - Shepherding the Flock")
* [Acts 20:29-30](/acts/20-29-30 "Acts 20:29-30 - Paul's Warning to the Ephesian Elders")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[2 Corinthians 11:20](/2_corinthians/11-20 "2 Corinthians 11:20 - Paul's Irony Regarding False Apostles") remains remarkably relevant for contemporary believers, serving as a powerful call to vigilance and discernment in an age where spiritual exploitation can take many forms. We are challenged to examine the character and motives of those who claim spiritual authority over us. True spiritual leaders, like Paul, prioritize the welfare of the flock over personal gain, demonstrate humility rather than self-exaltation, and build up rather than tear down. This verse compels us to ask if we, like the Corinthians, are tolerating behaviors in the name of "spirituality" that are actually abusive, controlling, or financially exploitative. It reminds us that our "wisdom" should lead us to reject those who seek to enslave, devour, or demean us, and instead embrace the liberating truth of the Gospel and the humble service exemplified by Christ. Protecting ourselves and our communities requires a deep understanding of biblical leadership principles and the courage to challenge anything that deviates from them.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways might I, or my community, be susceptible to spiritual exploitation today?**
* **What are the key characteristics of true, Christ-like leadership, and how do they contrast with the behaviors Paul describes in this verse?**
* **How can I cultivate greater discernment to recognize and resist those who seek to "bring into bondage" or "devour" others in the name of faith?**

### FAQ

**Why were the Corinthians tolerating such abuse from the false apostles?**

Answer: The Corinthians' tolerance of abuse from the false apostles, as described in [2 Corinthians 11:20](/2_corinthians/11-20 "2 Corinthians 11:20 - Paul's Irony Regarding False Apostles"), likely stemmed from several factors. They may have been impressed by the false teachers' rhetorical skills, charismatic personalities, or claims of superior spiritual experiences, which contrasted with Paul's more humble demeanor ([2 Corinthians 10:10](/2_corinthians/10-10 "2 Corinthians 10:10 - Paul's Appearance and Speech")). The Corinthians were also a church prone to factionalism and valuing worldly wisdom and status ([1 Corinthians 1:10-17](/1_corinthians/1-10-17 "1 Corinthians 1:10-17 - Divisions in the Church")), making them susceptible to leaders who projected power and demanded allegiance. Furthermore, Paul's ironic statement in [2 Corinthians 11:19](/2_corinthians/11-19 "2 Corinthians 11:19 - Suffering Fools Gladly") suggests they considered themselves "wise" and perhaps believed they were too sophisticated to be truly harmed, or that enduring such treatment was a sign of spiritual maturity or loyalty to a "strong" leader.

**What does "smite you on the face" imply in this context?**

Answer: The phrase "smite you on the face" (Greek: δέρει εἰς πρόσωπον) in [2 Corinthians 11:20](/2_corinthians/11-20 "2 Corinthians 11:20 - Paul's Irony Regarding False Apostles") is a vivid and shocking image. It implies not just physical violence, but profound humiliation, contempt, and a blatant assertion of power and dominance. In ancient cultures, striking someone on the face was a deeply insulting and demeaning act, often reserved for slaves or those considered utterly beneath contempt. For the Corinthians to tolerate such an indignity from their supposed spiritual leaders underscores the extreme level of control and abuse the false apostles wielded, and the alarming passivity of the believers. It paints a picture of outright tyranny rather than spiritual guidance.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[2 Corinthians 11:20](/2_corinthians/11-20 "2 Corinthians 11:20 - Paul's Irony Regarding False Apostles") finds its profound Christ-centered fulfillment not in the abuses it describes, but in the stark contrast it presents with the person and ministry of Jesus Christ. While false apostles enslave, devour, take, exalt themselves, and smite, Christ came not to be served but "to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many" ([Mark 10:45](/mark/10-45 "Mark 10:45 - The Son of Man Came to Serve")). He never exploited His followers but consistently provided for them, both spiritually and physically ([John 6:11](/john/6-11 "John 6:11 - Feeding the Five Thousand")). Far from exalting Himself, Jesus "made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humility")), enduring humiliation and physical abuse, even being "smitten on the face" ([Matthew 26:67](/matthew/26-67 "Matthew 26:67 - Jesus Struck by Guards")) for the sake of humanity's redemption. The true shepherd, Jesus, protects His sheep from devourers ([John 10:11-12](/john/10-11-12 "John 10:11-12 - The Good Shepherd")), rather than preying on them. Thus, this verse implicitly points to Christ as the ultimate standard of true spiritual leadership, a standard against which all others, especially those who seek to exploit, are exposed as false.

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

Galatians 2:4

And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage:

Galatians 5:1

¶ Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

Galatians 4:9

But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?

Galatians 4:3

Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world:

Lamentations 3:30

He giveth [his] cheek to him that smiteth him: he is filled full with reproach.

2 Corinthians 1:24

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

Isaiah 50:6

I gave my back to the smiters, and my cheeks to them that plucked off the hair: I hid not my face from shame and spitting.