Reading for December 10th

 Read 2 Corinthians 10.1-18. In 10.1-13: Paul defends his ministry. In 10.1-11: Taking the offensive. In verse 1: The character of Christ figures prominently in chs. 10-13 (11.4; Mt 11.29). Humble ... bold: Paul mimics his opponents' description of him (v. 10). In verses 2-4: Human translates "sarx," literally "flesh." it denotes an outlook opposed to god and concerned primarily with oneself. In verses 4-6: The military imagery serves to draw the battle lines between Paul and his opponents. He sees the controversy as more than a  battle of words, it is a conflict of a much higher order (Rom 13.12; Eph 6.10-17). Inverse 7; Paul's fidelity to Christ was an issue. In verses 8-9: The source and nature of Paul's authority are concerns throughout this section (13.10). In verse 10: This identifies two important criticisms; inconsistent behavior (1.15-22) and poor speaking ability (4.2;11.6). In verses 12-18: Limits of self promotion. In verse 12: Commend themselves: Paul was probably accused of making himself the center of his preaching (3.1-3; 4.5; 5.12). Now he criticizes his opponents for promoting themselves as a way of gaining favor. In verses 13-16: Paul regarded Achaia as the region God assigned him, He thinks the "super-apostles" (12.11) have invaded his territory. he preferred to work where no one else had been ((Rom 15.20). Inverse 17: Jer 9.23-24; see 1 Cor 1.31. In verse 18: Paul consistently defers to god's judgment (1 Cor 4.3-4). Comments or Questions..