2 corinthians 11:20 - For you bear with a man, if he brings you into bondage, if he devours you, if he takes you captive, if he exalts himself, if he strikes you on the face.
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What does "2 corinthians 11:20" mean?
This verse from 2 Corinthians 11:20 is a scathing indictment of the Corinthian church. Paul is being sarcastic and critical of their tolerance of false teachers who are exploiting them. Let's break it down phrase by phrase:
"For you bear with a man...": Paul is expressing disbelief that the Corinthians are so willing to put up with mistreatment.
"...if he brings you into bondage...": This refers to the false teachers enslaving the Corinthians, likely through manipulative teachings that restrict their freedom in Christ and impose legalistic demands. It could also refer to financial exploitation leading to literal indebtedness.
"...if he devours you...": This suggests the false teachers are taking advantage of the Corinthians for their own gain, perhaps through financial exploitation or sucking the life out of their spiritual vitality. It implies they are being consumed and used.
"...if he takes you captive...": This is similar to "bondage," further emphasizing the lack of freedom the Corinthians are experiencing under these teachers. It suggests a loss of control and independent thought.
"...if he exalts himself...": This points to the arrogance and self-importance of the false teachers. They are putting themselves above the Corinthians, rather than serving them in humility. They are seeking personal glory.
"...if he strikes you on the face...": This can be taken literally as a physical insult, but is more likely figurative. It represents a profound and humiliating offense or insult, reflecting the arrogance and abusiveness of these false teachers. It's a shocking image meant to highlight the Corinthians' passivity.
In essence, Paul is saying: "I can't believe you are putting up with these people who are enslaving you, taking advantage of you, holding you captive, acting superior, and even humiliating you!"
Context within 2 Corinthians:
This verse appears in a larger section where Paul is defending his own ministry and contrasting it with the tactics of these false teachers. He's concerned that the Corinthians are being swayed by these charlatans who are more interested in personal gain and self-promotion than in serving the church.
Paul highlights that he, unlike these teachers, never exploited or burdened the Corinthian church. He worked hard and provided for himself so as not to be a burden on them. He finds it absurd that they are so willing to tolerate abuse from these newcomers while questioning his own genuine love and concern for them.
Key Takeaway:
The verse serves as a powerful reminder to be discerning and to avoid being taken advantage of by those who claim to be spiritual leaders but are actually motivated by selfish ambition and abuse. It highlights the importance of standing up for oneself and protecting oneself from harmful influences. It is also a reminder that genuine leadership is marked by humility, service, and a genuine concern for the well-being of others.
2 corinthians 11:20 - For you bear with a man, if he brings you into bondage, if he devours you, if he takes you captive, if he exalts himself, if he strikes you on the face.
What does "2 corinthians 11:20" mean?
This verse from 2 Corinthians 11:20 is a scathing indictment of the Corinthian church. Paul is being sarcastic and critical of their tolerance of false teachers who are exploiting them. Let's break it down phrase by phrase:
"For you bear with a man...": Paul is expressing disbelief that the Corinthians are so willing to put up with mistreatment.
"...if he brings you into bondage...": This refers to the false teachers enslaving the Corinthians, likely through manipulative teachings that restrict their freedom in Christ and impose legalistic demands. It could also refer to financial exploitation leading to literal indebtedness.
"...if he devours you...": This suggests the false teachers are taking advantage of the Corinthians for their own gain, perhaps through financial exploitation or sucking the life out of their spiritual vitality. It implies they are being consumed and used.
"...if he takes you captive...": This is similar to "bondage," further emphasizing the lack of freedom the Corinthians are experiencing under these teachers. It suggests a loss of control and independent thought.
"...if he exalts himself...": This points to the arrogance and self-importance of the false teachers. They are putting themselves above the Corinthians, rather than serving them in humility. They are seeking personal glory.
"...if he strikes you on the face...": This can be taken literally as a physical insult, but is more likely figurative. It represents a profound and humiliating offense or insult, reflecting the arrogance and abusiveness of these false teachers. It's a shocking image meant to highlight the Corinthians' passivity.
In essence, Paul is saying: "I can't believe you are putting up with these people who are enslaving you, taking advantage of you, holding you captive, acting superior, and even humiliating you!"
Context within 2 Corinthians:
This verse appears in a larger section where Paul is defending his own ministry and contrasting it with the tactics of these false teachers. He's concerned that the Corinthians are being swayed by these charlatans who are more interested in personal gain and self-promotion than in serving the church.
Paul highlights that he, unlike these teachers, never exploited or burdened the Corinthian church. He worked hard and provided for himself so as not to be a burden on them. He finds it absurd that they are so willing to tolerate abuse from these newcomers while questioning his own genuine love and concern for them.
Key Takeaway:
The verse serves as a powerful reminder to be discerning and to avoid being taken advantage of by those who claim to be spiritual leaders but are actually motivated by selfish ambition and abuse. It highlights the importance of standing up for oneself and protecting oneself from harmful influences. It is also a reminder that genuine leadership is marked by humility, service, and a genuine concern for the well-being of others.