2 Corinthians 10 - Boasting Only in the Lord

 

In 2 Corinthians 10, Paul begins defending his apostolic authority against critics who accused him of being weak in person but bold in letters. Paul clarifies that his ministry is not worldly, but spiritual, empowered by God to build the church, not to dominate it.

 Paul explained 3 points:

 1.       BELIEVERS’ SPIRITUAL WAR

“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh.” (v.3)

 Paul reminds believers that the Christian life involves spiritual battle, not human tactics.

Our weapons are not:

 ·       anger

·       manipulation

·       pride

·       Human strength

 But are empowered by God:

 “…mighty in God for pulling down strongholds.” (v.4)

 

The real battle is in the mind and heart, not against people.

 

Taking Every Thought Captive to Christ

 Casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God…” (v.5)

 

Paul teaches that spiritual warfare includes confronting false ideas, pride, and beliefs that oppose God’s truth.

 

·       Not every thought is from God

·       Truth must rule over emotions and opinions

·       Obedience begins in the mind

 Victory in Christ starts with surrendered thinking.

 

2.       REALITY OF PAUL’S AUTHORITY
“The authority which the Lord has given us for edification and not for your destruction…” (v.8)

Authority Is for Building, Not Destroying

Paul clarifies that God-given authority in leadership exists to build people up, not control or intimidate them.

True spiritual authority:

·       serves, not dominates

·       restores, not crushes

·       points people to Christ, not self

  3.       LIMITS OF PAUL’S AUTHORITY

 

Boasting Only in the Lord

  “Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.” (v.17)

 Paul refuses to compare himself with others or seek human approval.

 Ministry is measured by faithfulness, not popularity

 

Approval comes from God, not people

  “For not he who commends himself is approved, but whom the Lord commends.” (v.18)