2 Corinthians 11:28

2 Corinthians 11:28 reveals a profound aspect of the Apostle Paul's ministry, moving beyond the external physical sufferings he meticulously cataloged in the preceding verses to expose the relentless internal burden he carried: "Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches."

Context

This verse is part of Paul's impassioned defense of his apostolic authority against false apostles who were undermining his ministry in Corinth. In 2 Corinthians 11:23-27, Paul lists an astonishing array of physical hardships he endured—beatings, imprisonments, shipwrecks, perils of all kinds, hunger, thirst, and nakedness. He presents these sufferings not as weaknesses, but as authentic credentials of a true servant of Christ, contrasting them with the self-exaltation of his opponents. Verse 28 then introduces a burden even heavier than these external trials, highlighting the spiritual and emotional toll of his extensive work.

Key Themes

• The Weight of Pastoral Responsibility: Paul's primary concern was not for his own comfort or safety, but for the spiritual health and doctrinal purity of the numerous congregations he had established or was overseeing. This "care of all the churches" speaks to the immense and constant pressure of leading and nurturing diverse Christian communities.
• Unseen Burdens of Ministry: Beyond the visible persecutions and physical hardships, Paul carried a daily, unseen burden of anxiety and concern for the believers. This illustrates that true Christian leadership involves deep emotional and spiritual investment, often leading to profound personal sacrifice.
• Authentic Apostolic Credentials: In an age where religious leaders often sought prestige and power, Paul's "boasting" was in his weaknesses and the burdens he bore for the sake of the gospel. This verse underscores that genuine leadership in Christ's kingdom is marked by service, suffering, and selfless devotion to the flock, rather than worldly success or personal gain. For more on Paul's perspective on boasting in weakness, see 2 Corinthians 12:9-10.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "care" is merimna (μεριμνα). This term implies a deep, often burdensome anxiety or worry. It's the same word used in the Gospels to describe worldly anxieties that can choke the word of God (e.g., Matthew 13:22). However, here Paul applies it to a holy, spiritual burden—his profound concern for the spiritual well-being of the churches. This was not a distracting anxiety, but a constant, weighty responsibility that occupied his thoughts daily.

Practical Application

This verse offers valuable insights for believers today, especially those in leadership roles:

• Empathy for Leaders: It reminds us that spiritual leaders often carry significant unseen burdens for their congregations. Their pastoral care extends beyond sermons and public appearances to deep, daily concern for the spiritual health of those they serve. This should encourage prayer and support for them.
• The Cost of Ministry: True ministry is not glamorous; it involves self-sacrifice, emotional investment, and often, profound spiritual anxiety for others. This passage challenges anyone considering Christian service to understand its full demands, both external and internal.
• Focus on Spiritual Well-being: Paul's example highlights the paramount importance of the spiritual condition of the church. Like Paul, genuine believers should have a deep concern for the growth, unity, and faithfulness of the body of Christ, seeking to uphold and encourage one another as seen in his desire for the welfare of the Philippian church.