Chapter 11
The
apostle gives the reasons for speaking in his own commendation
|
1–14
|
Shows
that he had freely preached the gospel
|
5–15
|
Explains
what he was going to add in defence of his own character
|
16–21
|
He
gives an account of his labours, cares, sufferings, dangers, and deliverances
|
22–33
|
Verses 1–4
The
apostle desired to preserve the Corinthians from being corrupted by the false
apostles. There is but one Jesus, one Spirit, and one gospel, to be preached to
them, and received by them; and why should any be prejudiced, by the devices of
an adversary, against him who first taught them in faith? They should not
listen to men, who, without cause, would draw them away from those who were the
means of their conversion.
Verses 5–15
It is far
better to be plain in speech, yet walking openly and consistently with the
gospel, than to be admired by thousands, and be lifted up in pride, so as to
disgrace the gospel by evil tempers and unholy lives. The apostle would not
give room for any to accuse him of worldly designs in preaching the gospel,
that others who opposed him at Corinth, might not in this respect gain
advantage against him. Hypocrisy may be looked for, especially when we consider
the great power which Satan, who rules in the hearts of the children of
disobedience, has upon the minds of many. And as there are temptations to evil
conduct, so there is equal danger on the other side. It serves Satan’s purposes
as well, to set up good works against the atonement of Christ, and salvation by
faith and grace. But the end will discover those who are deceitful workers;
their work will end in ruin. Satan will allow his ministers to preach either
the law or the gospel separately; but the law as established by faith in
Christ’s righteousness and atonement, and the partaking of his Spirit, is the
test of every false system.
Verses 16–21
It is the
duty and practice of Christians to humble themselves, in obedience to the
command and example of the Lord; yet prudence must direct in what it is needful
to do things which we may do lawfully, even the speaking of what God has
wrought for us, and in us, and by us. Doubtless here is reference to facts in
which the character of the false apostles had been shown. It is astonishing to
see how such men bring their followers into bondage, and how they take from
them and insult them.
Verses 22–33
The
apostle gives an account of his labours and sufferings; not out of pride or
vain-glory, but to the honour of God, who enabled him to do and suffer so much
for the cause of Christ; and shows wherein he excelled the false apostles, who
tried to lessen his character and usefulness. It astonishes us to reflect on
this account of his dangers, hardships, and sufferings, and to observe his
patience, perseverance, diligence, cheerfulness, and usefulness, in the midst
of all these trials. See what little reason we have to love the pomp and plenty
of this world, when this blessed apostle felt so much hardship in it. Our
utmost diligence and services appear unworthy of notice when compared with his,
and our difficulties and trials scarcely can be perceived. It may well lead us
to inquire whether or not we really are followers of Christ. Here we may study
patience, courage, and firm trust in God. Here we may learn to think less of
ourselves; and we should ever strictly keep to truth, as in God’s presence; and
should refer all to his glory, as the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is
blessed for evermore.
Excerpt from:
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary on the Bible
Matthew Henry (1662 - 1714)
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