In this chapter, Paul complains about the kind of preachers the Corinthians are listening to. He compares himself to a matchmaker, bringing them as pure bride to Christ. Now, he accuses them of stepping out from their pure devotion. He says that other teachers are bringing a different Jesus, a different gospel and a different Spirit. He acknowledges that he is not the best speaker compared with these “super apostles”, but he recommends his knowledge and religious background.
He questions his own practice of humility that might have led them to think he was not qualified to lead, so he shows them his résumé. First, he points out that he did not take money from them. In fact, he was supported by the Macedonians. From the context, we can assume that these speakers are charging large fees. He calls the for-profit ministers deceitful workers and compares them to Satan, an angel of light who lies.
Then, warns them that the message they bring is one of slavery, devours them, puts on airs and slaps them in the face. Paul’s message of Grace was that a forgiveness that God gives without cost to the recipient. Then and now, there are perverse versions of the gospel requiring people to earn their forgiveness or acceptance by following a lot of additional rules and practices. Leaders devouring, comes in either material or emotional draining of the community. As for putting on airs or slapping them in the face, we also see some modern leaders that elevate themselves and degrade the people they are leading. Christianity was never meant to make kings and subjects of people. We are to serve one another, equitably as brothers and sisters.
Paul then lists out all of the hardship and struggles that he had to endure as a missionary: five whippings, three beatings, one stoning, three shipwrecks and 24 hours adrift at sea as recorded in the book of Acts. Also, Paul had to face danger in town, in the wilderness, in the river, from robbers, foreigners and locals, not to mention hunger, thirst and cold. Finally, he suffers from all anxiety he feels worried about them. Ultimately, he is reciting this list not to show how strong he is, but how vulnerable he is and how much God has worked through him and on his behalf.
