Bible Discussion Thread

Could anybody help me understand II Cor:11-21? Was Paul being sarcastic here? Or is he saying, "Don't suffer fools gladly, let them smite you, take advantage of you..." Isn't the teaching contradictory, "don't suffer fools gladly" and "turn the other cheek" ? In the past, I have let people walk all over me, fearing to call people out on stuff, as though that were not loving them in Christ. Thank you.

Hi Lauren, in 2 Corinthians chapters 10 & 11, the apostle has been forced to vindicate his apostleship - he actually found this difficult to do as he was the type who would put Christ at the forefront rather than himself. This would be a long study to examine both chapters, but if you read them again, bearing in mind that Paul was compelled to prove his apostleship to a Church that was carnal in the greater part & given over to listening to false teachers. The Church was fascinated by these teachers, for their knowledge, oratory skills & smooth words, so much so, that Paul, in their minds, was insignificant in comparison & also not at the same level as the other apostles. Even though he was "rude (poor, not with finesse) in speech", yet he wasn't in knowledge (the Truth): 11:6. Though any boasting does not glorify the Lord (as was seen in the false teachers who delighted to show their oratory prowess & wide knowledge), Paul would oblige them & boast a little to show that his credentials of suffering for Christ (11:23-30) were as good, if not of greater importance, than what the others had to show.

And yes, Paul did drift into sarcasm as he questioned their wisdom in receiving these false teachers ("suffering (allowing) fools"). They were more prepared to be brought into bondage again, being taken advantage of, even being slapped (v 20), rather than give credit to Paul, to his apostleship & his teachings amonst them. The Corinthian Church was easily led astray, not strong on the doctrines & teachings given to them. If a strong popular figure should arise, they would be easily inclined to give them audience. Paul's letters to them reveal much of his heartache for them.

Wow, this really blessed me, thank you Chris. I will read the chapters again carefully,

taking note of what you've said. Thank you!