Monday, June 30 – 2 Corinthians 10, 11

1. Why do you think Paul was “humble” in person but “bold” in his letters? (2 Corinthians 10:1)

2. How does Satan disguise himself? (2 Corinthians 11:14)

3. How do his ministers disguise themselves? (2 Corinthians 11:15)

4. How did Paul escape from Damascus? (2 Corinthians 11:32–33)

We are entering a unique section of Paul’s Second Letter to the Corinthians, chapters 10 through 13, marked by a different tone and content. Let’s examine what the Seventh-day Adventist Bible Commentary says about the reason for this shift:

“Although at the time when the second epistle was written, a few weeks or months later (see p. 818), the majority of the church members had become fully reconciled to the apostle (see ch. 7:5–15; cf. on v. 13, 15), certain false apostles still continued to work against him (ch. 10:2). The apostle now directs a stern rebuke in his second epistle to this minority, particularly in chs. 10 to 13.” SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 6, on 2 Corinthians 11:22

“Its leaders were Christians of Jewish origin, who undoubtedly claimed to be better Jews and more loyal to Judaism than Paul (ch. 10:7; 11:22). They also professed to be ‘apostles of Christ’ (v. 13) and ‘ministers of Christ’ (v. 23), and denied that Paul was a true apostle (cf. ch. 11:15; 12:11, 12) or a representative of Christ (ch. 11:23). But in reality the ‘false apostles’ (v. 13) and ‘ministers’ of unrighteousness were themselves (v. 15). These characteristics are typical of the Judaizing party of the early church…”

SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 6, on 2 Corinthians 11:22
“In no other part of Paul’s writings is there anything to compare with the spirit and method seen in chs. 10–13.” SDA Bible Commentary, vol. 6, on 2 Corinthians 10:1

These false prophets arrived in Corinth during Paul’s absence, after the church had already been established. They made it their mission to discredit Paul’s ministry, attacking his physical appearance (10:10), criticizing his speaking skills (10:10; 11:6), his writing style (10:1), and his refusal to receive financial support (11:9). They claimed Paul was not a true apostle because he did not accept payment from the Corinthians. In response, Paul explains how he supported himself during his time there and why he chose that method.

Clearly, their criticisms were superficial and unfounded, serving as excuses to attack the messenger and undermine the message. The real danger lay in the subtle introduction of false teachings into the church. These false apostles elevated themselves and pursued prominence. Their teachings and leadership had already ensnared some in Corinth. Paul rebukes those misled by appearances: “Do you look at things according to the outward appearance?” (2 Corinthians 10:7, NKJV).
We must look beyond appearances to understand the content of the message and its impact. Does it unite or divide the church? Does it build up or tear down? Whom does it exalt?

Paul is compelled to defend his ministry because, in doing so, he supports the gospel message and the work accomplished in Corinth. What is striking is how he does this, not by boasting of talent, achievements, or elite associations, but by recounting his sufferings. As he stated previously, he boasts “according to the measure of the rule which God distributed to us” (2 Corinthians 10:13). His trials echo his words to the Galatians: “But God forbid that I should boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world” (Galatians 6:14, NKJV).

In our time, the danger remains. Many messengers with various messages abound. Let us not be swayed by charisma or appearance. Some have strayed from the faith by following a charming preacher. Beyond personal sympathies, we must treasure the true and only gospel.

Let us reject any ministry that dedicates itself to criticizing pastors or the church. This is the spirit of the enemy. Poison may be found hidden in a “good message.” I personally reject any preacher who speaks about what “a pastor in California” or “a church in Europe” did. There is much to speak of in the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy. I want a “Thus says the Lord.” I want to know more about Jesus.
Let us also reject any group that seeks to divide the church, no matter the topic or the individual involved.

“God has a church upon the earth, who are His chosen people, who keep His commandments. He is leading, not stray offshoots, not one here and one there, but a people.” Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 61

May God guide our steps always along the path of life, with the gospel clear in our minds and hearts, and may we remain part of His faithful people who follow and await Jesus.

Have a very blessed day with your loved ones.