2 Corinthians 10:14

For we stretch not ourselves beyond [our measure], as though we reached not unto you: for we are come as far as to you also in [preaching] the gospel of Christ:

For {G1063} we stretch {G5239} not {G3756} ourselves {G1438} beyond {G5239} our measure, as {G5613} though we reached {G2185} not {G3361} unto {G1519} you {G5209}: for {G1063} we are come {G5348} as far as {G891} to you {G5216} also {G2532} in {G1722} preaching the gospel {G2098} of Christ {G5547}:

We are not overextending our boasting as if we had not reached as far as you; for we did come all the way to you with the Good News of the Messiah.

We are not overstepping our bounds, as if we had not come to you. Indeed, we were the first to reach you with the gospel of Christ.

For we stretch not ourselves overmuch, as though we reached not unto you: for we came even as far as unto you in the gospel of Christ:

Commentary

2 Corinthians 10:14 is a crucial verse in Paul's impassioned defense of his apostolic ministry, affirming his legitimate spiritual authority over the Corinthian church.

Context

This verse is part of a larger section (2 Corinthians 10:7-18) where Paul addresses criticisms from some in Corinth who questioned his authority and methods, possibly influenced by rival teachers or "false apostles." These opponents likely boasted in their own perceived strengths and perhaps accused Paul of being weak in person but bold in letters (2 Corinthians 10:10). Paul counters by asserting that his ministry in Corinth was not an overreach or an intrusion into another's established work. Instead, it was a divinely appointed mission, rooted in the fact that he was the one who initially brought them the life-changing gospel of Christ.

Key Themes

  • Apostolic Authority and Legitimacy: Paul vehemently defends his God-given right to minister to the Corinthians. He emphasizes that his work among them was within his assigned "measure" or sphere of influence, distinguishing himself from those who might boast in others' labors.
  • The Foundation of Ministry: The verse highlights that Paul's authority and relationship with the Corinthians stemmed directly from his role as the spiritual founder of their church. He was the one who laid the groundwork by preaching the gospel to them first.
  • The Power of the Gospel: Ultimately, Paul's mission and the validation of his authority were inextricably linked to the transformative power of the "gospel of Christ" itself, which he faithfully proclaimed and which bore fruit in the Corinthian community.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "stretch not ourselves beyond [our measure]" uses the Greek word kanon (ฮบฮฑฮฝฯŽฮฝ), which literally means a "rule" or "measuring rod," and by extension, a "standard," "sphere of activity," or "assigned field." The KJV's addition of "our measure" in brackets clarifies this sense of a divinely appointed boundary or sphere of ministry. Paul is asserting that his work in Corinth was not an arbitrary intrusion but fell squarely within the boundaries God had set for his apostolic labor, unlike those who might boast in another's established work or intrude where they had no divine call.

Significance and Application

2 Corinthians 10:14 offers vital insights into the nature of genuine spiritual authority and ministry. It teaches us that true ministry is not self-appointed or based on human ambition, but on a divine calling and assignment. Paul's defense underscores the importance of operating within one's God-given sphere of influence, acknowledging the work God has called others to do. For believers today, this verse encourages us to discern true spiritual leadership, recognizing those whose ministry is validated by the fruit of their labor and their faithful proclamation of the gospel of Christ. It also challenges us to be careful not to boast in another's work or claim credit for what God has accomplished through others, a theme Paul continues to address in the subsequent verse (2 Corinthians 10:15).

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Cross-References

  • Romans 1:16 (3 votes)

    ยถ For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

  • 1 Corinthians 4:15 (3 votes)

    For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet [have ye] not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.

  • 1 Timothy 1:11 (3 votes)

    According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust.

  • Romans 15:18 (2 votes)

    For I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ hath not wrought by me, to make the Gentiles obedient, by word and deed,

  • Romans 15:19 (2 votes)

    Through mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; so that from Jerusalem, and round about unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ.

  • Romans 2:16 (2 votes)

    In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel.

  • Colossians 1:5 (2 votes)

    For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel;