2 Corinthians 10:16
To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man's line of things made ready to our hand.
Original Language Analysis
εἰς
in
G1519
εἰς
in
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
1 of 13
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
τὰ
G3588
τὰ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
2 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ὑπερέκεινα
the regions beyond
G5238
ὑπερέκεινα
the regions beyond
Strong's:
G5238
Word #:
3 of 13
above those parts, i.e., still farther
εὐαγγελίσασθαι
To preach the gospel
G2097
εὐαγγελίσασθαι
To preach the gospel
Strong's:
G2097
Word #:
5 of 13
to announce good news ("evangelize") especially the gospel
ἀλλοτρίῳ
another man's
G245
ἀλλοτρίῳ
another man's
Strong's:
G245
Word #:
8 of 13
another's, i.e., not one's own; by extension foreign, not akin, hostile
κανόνι
line
G2583
κανόνι
line
Strong's:
G2583
Word #:
9 of 13
a rule ("canon"), i.e., (figuratively) a standard (of faith and practice); by implication, a boundary, i.e., (figuratively) a sphere (of activity)
εἰς
in
G1519
εἰς
in
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
10 of 13
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
τὰ
G3588
τὰ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
11 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Historical Context
The false teachers likely arrived with impressive credentials, claiming superior apostleship. They built their influence in an established church (Corinth), avoiding the hardship of pioneer evangelism. This contrasts Paul's pattern: enduring shipwreck, beatings, deprivation to reach unreached peoples (11:23-28). Their comfort-seeking exposes false calling; genuine apostleship embraces suffering to advance the gospel.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Paul's commitment to pioneer evangelism 'beyond' existing work challenge comfortable Christianity that harvests where others planted?
- What unreached peoples or regions has God positioned you to reach with the gospel through your unique gifts, resources, or relationships?
- How can you avoid the temptation to build your reputation on 'ready-made' work (established ministries, existing disciples) rather than pioneering new gospel work?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you (εἰς τὰ ὑπερέκεινα ὑμῶν εὐαγγελίσασθαι)—Hyperekeina (ὑπερέκεινα, "beyond") reflects Paul's pioneering missionary vision. He consistently sought unreached regions (Rom 15:20, 23), driven by the Great Commission to make disciples of all nations (Matt 28:19). Corinth, properly matured, could launch Paul's mission to Spain (Rom 15:24, 28) and other western regions. Euangelisasthai (εὐαγγελίσασθαι, "to preach the gospel") defines apostolic purpose—proclamation to those who've never heard.
And not to boast in another man's line of things made ready to our hand (οὐκ ἐν ἀλλοτρίῳ κανόνι εἰς τὰ ἕτοιμα καυχήσασθαι)—Allotrίō kanoni (ἀλλοτρίῳ κανόνι, "another's sphere/field") reiterates the boundary principle. Hetoima (ἕτοιμα, "things prepared/ready-made") critiques those who harvest where others planted. Paul's opponents built on his foundation (1 Cor 3:10), claiming credit for his labor. Paul rejects this parasitic model—true apostolic ministry pioneers new ground, not exploits existing work.