Paul had had some stern interaction with the Corinthian church since his first letter to them (which has its stern moments). There were other letters and visits. We don’t know what this interaction was, but it is easy enough to imagine from what he says here. Evidently Paul had his critics in the church who thought he was too battered, weak, ineloquent and unimpressive as a leader. Then some changes in his plans seem to have laid him open to charges of insincerity. From our perspective now it seems crazy that these people were so critical of the great apostle. That Paul should have to defend his integrity to these proud critics seems outlandish. But such is the curse of pride. It robs us of the blessings that God wants to give to us through other people, particularly leaders. We cannot walk with God if we will not honour the people he uses to lead us. Such people will always be imperfect, and we may find lots to criticise. But the pride that enables us to dismiss an imperfect person is a far worse flaw than any imperfection we might see in them. Humility is a vital attribute. Better to be humble and wrong than right and proud. Paul himself exemplifies humility throughout this letter. He is remarkably gracious. That his humility could be taken by some for weakness is a further indictment upon them. Learn to humbly honour imperfect people, particularly those whom God has given to lead you.
Pray for your church leaders.
Read 2 Corinthians 1:12-2:4
