Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes that Paul is drawing attention to the inconsistency in the positions of those advocating circumcision. If Paul were preaching the necessity of circumcision, the resultant persecutions he faced would not align with the very doctrines he proclaimed. Henry notes that true preaching of the Gospel naturally entails a degree of suffering due to its counter-cultural nature and that the offense of the cross lies in the contrast it presents to human merit and works.

Albert Barnes' Notes

Albert Barnes expounds on the nature of persecution, arguing that it is often directed towards those who uphold the essential truths of the Gospel. He explains that if Paul was indeed teaching adherence to the law (i.e., circumcision), then the internal conflict and external strife that he experienced would be nonsensical. He posits that the cross, with its demand for reliance on God's grace rather than human merit, creates an existential challenge to both Jews and Gentiles, thereby generating persecution.

Barnes further elaborates that the offense of the cross must remain in the forefront of Christian thought, as it challenges both Jewish legalism and Gentile license. The cross stands as a symbol of salvation through faith alone.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke provides a thorough investigation into the theological implications of Paul's statement. He argues that if Paul were to align himself with the proponents of circumcision, it would undermine the very essence of the Gospel he preached, essentially rendering his sufferings moot. Clarke states that the cross offends human pride, and in doing so, becomes a central theme of acceptance and rejection in the Christian faith.

Clarke also touches on the historical context, suggesting that the offense reflects the cultural and religious tension of the early church and illustrates the broader conflict between grace and works. He underscores that true faith leads to persecution, much as the prophets and Christ himself faced opposition.

In conclusion, Clarke asserts that the sufferings of believers highlight their adherence to the true tenets of the Gospel, thus, the cross must perpetually remain a point of contention.