II Corinthians 12:19
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Have you been thinking all along that we were making a defense to you? We speak before God in Christ, and all of this, beloved, is to build you up.
Commentaries
Excerpts gathered from published commentaries to ground the reading.
Again--The oldest manuscripts read, "This long time ye think that we are excusing ourselves unto you? (Nay). It is before God (as opposed to 'unto you') that we speak in Christ" (Co2 2:17). English Version Greek text was a correction from Co2 3:1; Co2 5:12.
Open source ↗In this chapter the apostle proceeds in maintaining the honour of his apostleship. He magnified his office when there were those who vilified it. What he says in his own praise was only in his own justification and the necessary defence of the honour of his ministry, the preservation of which was necessary to its success. First, He makes mention of the favour God had shown him, the honour done him, the methods God took to keep him humble, and the use he made of this dispensation (Co2 12:1-10). Then he addresses himself to the Corinthians, blaming them for what was faulty among them, and giving a large account of his behaviour and kind intentions towards them (Co2 12:11 to the end).
Open source ↗12:19 Paul is not simply offering a defense of his conduct and motives; he wants to assure his dear friends of his genuine love and Christian service for the well-being of the church.
Open source ↗Original language
The Hebrew and Greek words behind this passage, with Strong's numbers — from openscriptures (CC BY-SA).
Cross-references
Other passages the community most often connects to this one. Tap to read.
I speak the truth in Christ; I am not lying, as confirmed by my conscience in the Holy Spirit.
What then shall we say, brothers? When you come together, everyone has a psalm or a teaching, a revelation, a tongue, or an interpretation. All of these must be done to build up the church.
For even if I boast somewhat excessively about the authority the Lord gave us for building you up rather than tearing you down, I will not be ashamed.
Therefore, my beloved, flee from idolatry.
as I also try to please everyone in all I do. For I am not seeking my own good, but the good of many, that they may be saved.
Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.”
This is why I write these things while absent, so that when I am present I will not need to be severe in my use of the authority that the Lord gave me for building you up, not for tearing you down.
Are we beginning to commend ourselves again? Or do we need, like some people, letters of recommendation to you or from you?
As surely as the truth of Christ is in me, this boasting of mine will not be silenced in the regions of Achaia.
Therefore, beloved, since we have these promises, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that defiles body and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.