Have you ever had to say something difficult to someone you admire or look up to? It’s never easy to speak a hard truth to someone you respect, especially when it may challenge the relationship.
Today, we see how distance can change the way we communicate. Social media offers a modern example: People often say things online that they might never say face to face. Without physical presence, it’s easy to speak more boldly—or more harshly. In many ways, Paul is addressing something similar in this portion of his letter. Letters can be interpreted in different ways, and tone can easily be misread. Words on a page don’t always convey the compassion or conviction of a real-life conversation.
Think back to a time when you had to confront a coworker, neighbor, or family member in person. The tone of your voice, posture, facial expressions—all of these things change the way a message is received. Paul is wrestling with this tension. Some in the Corinthian church are misjudging him based on his written words versus his physical presence.
Paul’s concern runs deeper than miscommunication, though. He’s addressing a growing issue within the church—leaders and members are making snap judgments, comparing themselves to one another, and even questioning Paul’s authority to teach. This part of the letter revisits a conversation from earlier: Who is truly qualified to teach and preach in the community of faith?
It seems the congregation in Corinth has begun requiring letters of recommendation, even for Paul. While this might seem like an attempt to maintain order, it hints at something deeper: a power struggle. Some within the congregation, likely from a more elite social standing, are attempting to control who gets to lead and teach.
Paul doesn’t back down. He confronts this behavior, calling out the error of comparing one person’s worth to another’s within the body of Christ. He reminds them it is not human approval, but Christ alone, who calls and equips leaders for ministry. Next, we’ll see Paul go further, warning the church against those who “commend themselves” and seek recognition without having been shaped by Christ and his cross. Paul calls the church to measure themselves not by human standards but by lives transformed by Jesus.
Things have improved in Corinth since Paul’s last letter, but clearly, there’s still work to be done.
Reflection:
- How is Paul being discredited in 2 Corinthians 10:1-2, 9-11?
- Is “authority” a positive or negative word for you? Why?
- What is one way you can use your influence this week to build others up rather than tear down?
Prayer:
Lord, let your good news be proclaimed publicly and take root in the private corners of our hearts. Shape us with truth, grace, and humility. Help us endure the hard conversations that lead to healing and growth. Amen.