Commentary on 2 Corinthians 11:20

In 2 Corinthians 11:20, Paul expresses concern over the church in Corinth being led astray by false teachers. The verse reads:

"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."

This verse serves as a pivotal reminder about the dangers of spiritual deception and manipulation. Paul, in this epistle, reveals his feelings of indignation and pastoral concern for the believers in Corinth, highlighting the perilous consequences of allowing false doctrine to infiltrate the church.

Analysis of Key Themes

• Spiritual Authority and Control:

  Here, Paul points out that the Corinthians "suffer" under the influence of these self-proclaimed apostles. The term "bondage" suggests a loss of spiritual freedom, indicating how false teachers can manipulate their followers for personal gain, reminiscent of warnings found in Matthew Henry's commentary.

• Exploitation by Leaders:

  Paul lists various exploitative behaviors — devouring, taking advantage, self-exaltation, and even physical harm. Each of these illustrates the multifaceted ways in which leaders can abuse their power, as described by Adam Clarke, who emphasizes the importance of scrutinizing the character of one's guides in faith.

• The Danger of Blind Adherence:

  As expressed in Albert Barnes' writings, the peril of unquestioningly following charismatic leaders is that it can lead to spiritual decay. Paul challenges the Corinthians not to passively accept oppressive leadership but to understand their liberty in Christ.

Paul's Emotional Appeal

Paul’s tone in this passage reflects a mixture of frustration and urgent counsel. He laments the readiness of the Corinthians to endure these abuses. His rhetorical questions highlight their shocking willingness to accept oppression and deception. This emotional appeal serves as both a critique and an invitation to reconsider their allegiances.

Contextual Examination

This passage occurs within a broader context of Paul defending his apostolic authority against the backdrop of false teachers who had infiltrated the church. Understanding the socio-religious climate of the early church can illuminate why these issues were so pronounced. Matthew Henry notes that in a time marked by a plethora of voices and teachings, discerning truth becomes paramount.

Theological Implications

The implications are profound. Understanding that spiritual leaders hold a significant influence requires both the leaders and the followers to align with the teachings of Christ rather than the egos of men. Paul’s admonition is timeless, reminding modern believers to guard their hearts against manipulation and to seek genuine spiritual nourishment.

Conclusion

In summary, 2 Corinthians 11:20 serves as a cautionary message against spiritual exploitation. It calls for vigilance in faith, urging believers to remain grounded in the truth of the Gospel and to critically examine the motives and actions of those who lead them. The insights drawn from the public domain commentaries provide rich layers of understanding, encouraging pastors, students, theologians, and scholars to look beyond the surface and embrace the deeper truths contained within this powerful passage.