Note 13 at 2 Cor. 10:8: Paul had given the Corinthians his spiritual qualifications, but they chose to ignore them. They were seeking carnal proof that Christ was speaking through Paul (2 Cor. 13:3). Therefore, he reluctantly obliges them. From here through the end of the eleventh chapter, he begins to boast about his carnal, or natural, self and accomplishments.

This is not the way Paul evaluated himself (1 Cor. 4:3), and this was not his first choice in defending himself to the Corinthians. But since they were moved only by the flesh, Paul decided he would come down to their level and show them his physical accomplishments. None of his critics could match his education, degree of persecution, faithfulness, and accomplishments. Therefore, even from a carnal perspective, no one had the right to question his authority.

We should not boast in ourselves and our accomplishments. As Paul said, "He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord" (1 Cor. 1:31; 2 Cor. 10:17). Yet in an effort to persuade those who only "glory in appearance, and not in heart" (2 Cor. 5:12), we can sometimes compare ourselves to our critics, as Paul does here. It needs to be kept in mind that this is not wise to do (v. 12) and should only be done to make a point. Our personal evaluation of ourselves should only be done in light of who we are in Christ. He is our only righteousness.

Paul was well aware of this and made it clear that he was speaking from the perspective of an unbeliever in this boasting (2 Cor. 11:17, 21, 23). Yet, even on a carnal level, no one could out-brag Paul. He had more natural qualifications than any of his critics. He had no reason to be ashamed, even when talking about natural things.

Note 14 at 2 Cor. 10:8: True spiritual authority is given to an individual so that he may bless others, not oppress them. Those who exercise authority in a dictatorial manner are not using it properly. Peter told elders to take the oversight of the churches, not "as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock" (1 Pet. 5:1-3). Jesus told His disciples, "He that is greatest among you shall be your servant" (Mt. 23:11). God gives leaders authority for edification and not for destruction.