2 Corinthians 10:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Corinthians 10:15
15 Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men's labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly,
Chapter Context
2 Corinthians 10 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of obedience, prayer, worship. 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 13-18: Central message and teachings
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 10:15
15 Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men's labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly,
Analysis
Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men's labours (οὐκ εἰς τὰ ἄμετρα καυχώμενοι ἐν ἀλλοτρίοις κόποις)—Allotriois kopois (ἀλλοτρίοις κόποις, "other men's labors") exposes the false teachers' method: invading established churches and claiming credit for others' work. Kopois (κόποις, "labors/toils") emphasizes exhausting work—Paul's pioneering evangelism and church-planting contrasted with his opponents' parasitic exploitation of existing congregations.
But having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly (ἐλπίδα δὲ ἔχοντες, αὐξανομένης τῆς πίστεως ὑμῶν, ἐν ὑμῖν μεγαλυνθῆναι κατὰ τὸν κανόνα ἡμῶν εἰς περισσείαν)—Auxanomenēs (αὐξανομένης, "being increased") envisions spiritual maturity enabling Paul to expand his mission. Megalynthēnai (μεγαλυνθῆναι, "to be enlarged/magnified") suggests the Corinthians becoming a base for further gospel advance. As they mature, they'll support (financially and prayerfully) Paul's pioneering work in unreached regions (v. 16).
Historical Context
Paul's missionary strategy prioritized pioneer evangelism in unreached areas (Rom 15:20-24). He hoped established churches would become sending bases for further missions. Corinth's strategic location and relative wealth positioned it to support gospel expansion, but their immaturity (strife, division, tolerating sin) hindered this. Paul longs for their growth to enable wider ministry.
Reflection
- How does claiming credit for others' work—in ministry, business, or relationships—reveal pride and undermine genuine kingdom collaboration?
- What 'enlargement' of ministry might God be waiting to grant until you mature in faith and faithfulness?
- How can your church move from consuming resources on internal concerns to becoming a sending base for gospel advance in unreached areas?
Word Studies
- Hope: ἐλπίς (Elpis) G1680 - Hope, expectation
Cross-References
- Faith: 2 Thessalonians 1:3
- Parallel theme: 2 Corinthians 10:13, Acts 5:13, Romans 15:20