2 Corinthians 11:29

KJV

Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is offended, and I burn not?

KJV (with Strong's)

Who {G5101} is weak {G770}, and {G2532} I am {G770} not {G3756} weak {G770}? who {G5101} is offended {G4624}, and {G2532} I {G1473} burn {G4448} not {G3756}?

Complete Jewish Bible

Who is weak without my sharing his weakness? Who falls into sin without my burning inside?

Berean Standard Bible

Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is led into sin, and I do not burn with grief?

American Standard Version

Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is caused to stumble, and I burn not?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Corinthians 11:29, the Apostle Paul profoundly articulates the depth of his pastoral empathy and spiritual burden for the Corinthian believers, concluding his "fool's speech" where he reluctantly defends his authentic apostolic ministry against the superficial boasts of false apostles. Through two rhetorical questions, Paul reveals that he not only shares in the weaknesses and struggles of the church members but also experiences intense anguish and righteous indignation when any believer is led astray or stumbles in their faith, thereby showcasing a shepherd's heart fully identified with his flock.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as a powerful capstone to Paul's extensive and somewhat ironic defense of his apostolic credentials, often referred to as his "fool's speech" (2 Corinthians 11:1-12:13). Having just detailed an exhaustive list of physical sufferings, persecutions, and hardships endured for the Gospel's sake in [2 Corinthians 11:23-28](/2_corinthians/11-23-28 "2 Corinthians 11:23-28 - Paul's Sufferings for Christ"), Paul shifts from external afflictions to the internal, emotional, and spiritual burdens he carries. He contrasts his genuine, self-sacrificial ministry, marked by weakness and suffering, with the self-aggrandizing, worldly boasting of the false apostles who sought to undermine his authority in Corinth. This verse elevates his defense beyond mere endurance to a profound identification with the spiritual well-being of the church, demonstrating that his true "boast" is in his weakness and his deep care for the flock.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Corinthian church was a complex and often tumultuous community, influenced by various philosophical and rhetorical trends prevalent in the Greco-Roman world. Paul was facing significant opposition from "super-apostles" (as he sarcastically calls them in [2 Corinthians 11:5](/2_corinthians/11-5 "2 Corinthians 11:5 - Paul's Sarcasm Towards False Apostles")) who likely boasted of their eloquence, worldly wisdom, impressive appearances, and perhaps even financial independence. These opponents challenged Paul's authority, perhaps criticizing his humble demeanor, lack of sophisticated rhetoric, or his refusal to accept financial support from the Corinthians. In this cultural milieu, where public speaking and displays of power were highly valued, Paul's embrace of weakness and suffering, as well as his profound empathy, would have seemed counter-cultural and even foolish to many. His words in [2 Corinthians 11:29](/2_corinthians/11-29 "2 Corinthians 11:29 - Paul's Empathy for the Weak") directly confront these worldly standards of leadership, presenting a radically different, Christ-like model of pastoral care.
* **Key Themes:** [2 Corinthians 11](/2_corinthians/11 "2 Corinthians 11 - Paul's Defense Against False Apostles") as a whole, and [2 Corinthians 11:29](/2_corinthians/11-29 "2 Corinthians 11:29 - Paul's Burden for the Church") in particular, contribute to several overarching themes in Paul's theology. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **authentic apostolic ministry**, contrasting genuine, suffering-laden service with superficial, self-serving leadership. Secondly, it highlights the paradoxical theme of **strength in weakness**, a concept Paul frequently emphasizes (e.g., [2 Corinthians 12:9-10](/2_corinthians/12-9-10 "2 Corinthians 12:9-10 - God's Power in Weakness")). Paul's willingness to identify with the weak demonstrates true spiritual strength. Thirdly, the verse powerfully conveys **pastoral empathy and burden**, revealing a shepherd's heart that genuinely feels the joys and sorrows of the flock. This deep concern for the spiritual well-being of believers is a hallmark of Paul's ministry and a model for all Christian leaders. Finally, it touches on the theme of **spiritual integrity and guarding against stumbling blocks**, as Paul's "burning" indignation signifies his zeal for the purity of faith and conduct within the church, echoing concerns found in [1 Corinthians 8](/1_corinthians/8 "1 Corinthians 8 - Food Offered to Idols and Stumbling Blocks").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **weak (Greek, _asthenéō'_):** From _asthenēs_, meaning "without strength," "feeble," or "sick." Paul uses this word to describe not only physical infirmity but also spiritual or moral weakness, vulnerability, or lack of firm conviction. His rhetorical question, "Who is weak, and I am not weak?" signifies his profound identification with those who are struggling in any capacity—whether in faith, facing temptation, or feeling inadequate. He does not stand aloof but genuinely shares in their experience of frailty.
* **offended (Greek, _skandalízō'_):** Derived from _skandalon_, which refers to a trap, a snare, or a stumbling block. To be "offended" or "scandalized" means to be caused to stumble, to fall into sin, to be led astray, or to have one's faith compromised. Paul's concern here is for those believers whose spiritual walk is hindered or whose faith is undermined, perhaps by false teaching, bad example, or persecution.
* **burn (Greek, _pyróō'_):** From _pyr_, meaning "fire." This verb signifies "to kindle," "to be ignited," or "to be inflamed." In this context, it denotes an intense emotional heat, not necessarily of anger in a negative sense, but of fervent zeal, deep grief, or righteous indignation. Paul's "burning" indicates his passionate distress and profound concern when a fellow believer is led into spiritual harm, highlighting his fierce protectiveness over the flock.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Who is weak, and I am not weak?":** This rhetorical question underscores Paul's profound and active empathy. He is not merely sympathetic from a distance; he genuinely enters into the experience of weakness with those who are weak. This "weakness" can encompass various forms: those struggling with doubts, facing persecution, succumbing to temptation, or feeling spiritually inadequate. Paul implies that their weakness becomes his own burden, demonstrating a deep, personal identification with the vulnerabilities of the Corinthian believers. It highlights his pastoral heart, which is fully invested in the struggles of the flock, contrasting sharply with leaders who might project an image of invincibility.
* **"who is offended, and I burn not?":** This second rhetorical question reveals Paul's intense emotional and spiritual anguish when a believer is caused to stumble or fall away from faith. The term "offended" (stumbled/scandalized) refers to being led into sin, apostasy, or spiritual harm. Paul's response is not passive observation but an active "burning"—an intense, almost fiery, indignation, grief, or zeal. This "burning" signifies his fervent passion for the spiritual integrity and purity of the church, indicating that he feels the spiritual injury of others as if it were his own, demonstrating a fierce protectiveness and righteous concern for the flock's well-being.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several powerful **Rhetorical Questions** in this verse, which are questions asked for effect rather than to elicit an answer. By posing "Who is weak, and I am not weak?" and "who is offended, and I burn not?", Paul compels his audience to acknowledge the undeniable truth of his profound empathy and pastoral burden, making his claim more impactful than a simple declarative statement. This technique also serves to highlight the **Contrast** between Paul's genuine, self-sacrificial ministry and the self-serving, aloof leadership of the false apostles. Furthermore, the verse is rich in **Pathos**, an appeal to emotion. Paul's language evokes strong feelings of compassion and righteous indignation, allowing the audience to perceive the depth of his emotional investment in their spiritual welfare. The phrase "I burn not" also functions as a **Metaphor**, portraying his intense emotional reaction as a consuming fire, conveying the fervent zeal and anguish he experiences when believers stumble.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's identification with the weak and his anguish over those who stumble reveal a profound theological truth about the nature of Christian leadership and community: true spiritual authority is rooted not in self-exaltation or worldly power, but in self-sacrificial love, empathy, and a willingness to bear the burdens of others. This mirrors the very heart of God, who does not remain distant from humanity's suffering but enters into it. Paul's "burning" zeal for the purity and spiritual integrity of the church also reflects God's own holiness and His fervent desire for His people to walk in righteousness, guarding against anything that would cause them to fall. This verse thus serves as a powerful reminder that the body of Christ is interconnected, and the spiritual well-being of one member profoundly impacts all.

* [Romans 12:15](/romans/12-15 "Romans 12:15 - Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep")
* [Galatians 6:2](/galatians/6-2 "Galatians 6:2 - Bear one another's burdens")
* [1 Corinthians 9:22](/1_corinthians/9-22 "1 Corinthians 9:22 - Paul's Willingness to Become All Things to All People")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's example in 2 Corinthians 11:29 challenges every believer to cultivate a heart of profound empathy and a vigilant concern for the spiritual well-being of others. It calls us beyond mere sympathy to genuine identification with those who struggle, to feel their weaknesses as our own, and to share their burdens. This means actively listening, offering support, and refraining from judgment. Furthermore, Paul's "burning" indignation when others stumble should ignite within us a righteous zeal for the purity of the church and a commitment to avoid being stumbling blocks ourselves. It compels us to examine our own actions, words, and teachings, ensuring they build up rather than tear down, and to respond with fervent prayer and compassionate action when we see fellow believers falter. True Christian community is one where we are deeply invested in each other's spiritual journeys, bearing burdens and guarding against anything that would cause harm.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do I genuinely share in the weaknesses and struggles of those around me, or do I tend to keep a safe distance?**
* **What causes me to "burn" with righteous concern or grief for the spiritual state of others, and how does that motivate my actions?**
* **How can I be more intentional about identifying with and supporting those who are "weak" or "offended" in my community or church?**
* **Am I aware of how my own actions or words might inadvertently cause a brother or sister to stumble, and how can I be more vigilant?**

### FAQ

**What does Paul mean by "weak" in this context?**

Answer: When Paul says, "Who is weak, and I am not weak?", he is referring to a broad spectrum of vulnerabilities and struggles experienced by believers. This can include those who are weak in faith, struggling with doubts or temptations, facing persecution or social pressure, feeling inadequate in their spiritual walk, or even those whose conscience is weak regarding certain practices (as discussed in [1 Corinthians 8](/1_corinthians/8 "1 Corinthians 8 - Food Offered to Idols and Stumbling Blocks")). Paul's point is that he deeply identifies with all these forms of weakness, feeling their burdens as his own, rather than standing aloof in a position of perceived strength or superiority. This empathy is a hallmark of his authentic apostolic ministry.

**What does it mean to be "offended" and why does Paul "burn" when it happens?**

Answer: To be "offended" (from the Greek _skandalízō_) means to be caused to stumble, to fall into sin, to be led astray, or to have one's faith compromised. It implies a spiritual injury or a deviation from righteous living. Paul's declaration, "who is offended, and I burn not?", signifies his intense emotional and spiritual anguish when this occurs. His "burning" (from _pyróō_, to be inflamed) is not necessarily anger in a negative sense, but a fervent zeal, deep grief, or righteous indignation over the spiritual harm inflicted upon a believer. It underscores his fierce protectiveness over the flock and his passionate commitment to their spiritual integrity, reflecting a heart aligned with God's own concern for His children.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's profound empathy and identification with the weak and stumbling in [2 Corinthians 11:29](/2_corinthians/11-29 "2 Corinthians 11:29 - Paul's Burden for the Church") find their ultimate fulfillment and perfect expression in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Our Lord is the quintessential Good Shepherd who not only knows His sheep but actively lays down His life for them ([John 10:11](/john/10-11 "John 10:11 - The Good Shepherd")). Unlike any human leader, Christ perfectly embodies the willingness to become weak for the sake of the weak. He "emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humiliation")), identifying fully with our human frailty and suffering, yet without sin ([Hebrews 4:15](/hebrews/4-15 "Hebrews 4:15 - Jesus, Our Sympathetic High Priest")). He was "a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief" ([Isaiah 53:3](/isaiah/53-3 "Isaiah 53:3 - The Suffering Servant")), not merely observing human pain but personally bearing it. When He saw the crowds "harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd," He had compassion on them ([Matthew 9:36](/matthew/9-36 "Matthew 9:36 - Jesus' Compassion for the Crowds")). His "burning" over those who stumble is seen in His righteous indignation against those who would cause "little ones" to fall ([Matthew 18:6](/matthew/18-6 "Matthew 18:6 - Warning Against Causing Others to Stumble")) and His fervent zeal for the purity of God's house ([John 2:17](/john/2-17 "John 2:17 - Jesus Cleansing the Temple")). Thus, Paul's pastoral heart, though remarkable, is a reflection of the infinitely compassionate and protective heart of Christ, who truly became weak to make us strong and burned with divine love to redeem us from stumbling into eternal ruin.

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

1 Corinthians 9:22

To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all [men], that I might by all means save some.

1 Corinthians 8:13

Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend.

Galatians 4:8

¶ Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods.

Galatians 4:20

I desire to be present with you now, and to change my voice; for I stand in doubt of you.

1 Thessalonians 3:5

For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain.

1 Thessalonians 3:8

For now we live, if ye stand fast in the Lord.

2 Corinthians 2:4

For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote unto you with many tears; not that ye should be grieved, but that ye might know the love which I have more abundantly unto you.