2 Corinthians 11:20
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Corinthians 11:20
20 For ye suffer, if a man bring you into bondage, if a man devour you, if a man take of you, if a man exalt himself, if a man smite you on the face.
Chapter Context
2 Corinthians 11 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, salvation, truth. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 55-56 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Paul defended his apostleship against challenges in a culture valuing rhetorical prowess.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-33: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 2 Corinthians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
2 Corinthians 11:20
20 For ye suffer, if a man bring you into bondage, if a man devour you, if a man take of you, if a man exalt himself, if a man smite you on the face.
Analysis
For ye suffer, if a man bring you into bondage, if a man devour you, if a man take of you, if a man exalt himself, if a man smite you on the face. Paul's fivefold catalog of the Corinthians' submission to abuse is devastating. Each ei (εἰ, 'if') clause describes what they tolerate from false apostles while rejecting Paul's loving service. The repetition of tis (τις, 'someone/a man') emphasizes the agents of abuse.
Bring you into bondage (katadouloi, καταδουλοῖ)—enslaving them to legalistic requirements or human authority. Devour you (katesthiei, κατεσθίει)—consuming their resources like predators. Take of you (lambanei, λαμβάνει)—seizing what belongs to them. Exalt himself (epairetai, ἐπαίρεται)—arrogantly promoting himself. Smite you on the face (eis prosōpon derei, εἰς πρόσωπον δέρει)—insulting and humiliating them.
The verbs progress from spiritual enslavement through financial exploitation to personal abuse. This is what the Corinthians 'gladly tolerate' from impressive false teachers while questioning Paul who enslaved himself to serve them freely. The tragic irony: they submit to tyranny disguised as authority while resisting genuine apostolic care.
Historical Context
The false apostles apparently established authoritarian control, demanded financial support, promoted themselves shamelessly, and treated the Corinthians with contempt. Ancient rhetoric valued powerful, dominating speakers. The Corinthians, influenced by this cultural value, mistook abuse for authority and service for weakness.
Reflection
- How do contemporary Christians sometimes tolerate spiritual abuse, financial exploitation, or authoritarian control from charismatic leaders?
- Why might people submit to domineering leaders while resisting servant-hearted pastors—what cultural values create this inversion?
- What are warning signs that a Christian leader is 'devouring' rather than serving, 'exalting himself' rather than Christ?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 2 Corinthians 1:24, Galatians 2:4, 4:3, 4:9, 5:1