II Corinthians 1:18

He adds this lest they might think his DOCTRINE was changeable like his purposes (the change in which he admitted in Co2 1:17, while denying that it was due to "lightness," and at the same time implying that not to have changed, where there was good reason, would have been to imitate the fleshly-minded who at all costs obstinately hold to their purpose). true--Greek, "faithful" (Co1 1:9). our word--the doctrine we preach. was not--The oldest manuscripts read "is not." yea and nay--that is, inconsistent with itself.

After the introduction (Co2 1:1, Co2 1:2) the apostle begins with the narrative of his troubles and God's goodness, which he had met with in Asia, by way of thanksgiving to God (Co2 1:3-6), and for the edification of the Corinthians (Co2 1:7-11). Then he attests his and his fellow-labourers' integrity (Co2 1:12-14), and afterwards vindicates himself from the imputation of levity and inconstancy (Co2 1:15-24).

1:18-22 It was bad enough that Paul’s enemies at Corinth had attacked his character as unreliable and shifty (1:17). It was worse when they charged that his entire message was just as uncertain. In these verses Paul answers that allegation. 1:18-20 As surely as God is faithful: God can be trusted, as can his promises in Christ and his ministry through the apostles.