What does 2 Corinthians 11:20 mean?

Explanation

2 Corinthians 11:20 is a verse wherein the Apostle Paul expresses his concern about the Corinthian Christians' tolerance of false teachers and abusive leaders. Paul is shocked and dismayed that the Corinthians would tolerate such treatment without resistance.

The verse lists several behaviors that are unacceptable for leaders within the church: bringing people into bondage (likely referring to imposing legalistic restrictions), devouring or taking advantage of the congregation, self-exaltation, and even physical abuse as represented by the phrase "smite you on the face." In a deeper sense, this verse demonstrates Paul's frustration with his followers’ failure to discern and his desire for them to recognize the true nature of leadership in the church, which ought to be characterized by service and humility rather than tyranny and exploitation.

Historical Context

The letter of 2 Corinthians was written by Paul in the mid-first century AD, addressing issues in the Church of Corinth.

This particular chapter deals with the presence of false apostles who were leading the Corinthians astray with teachings that contradicted the message Paul had previously delivered to them.

In the historical context, "bringing into bondage" might refer to false teachers trying to convince the Corinthian Christians to adhere to certain Jewish legalistic practices.

The historical background includes the conflict between Jewish-Christian and Gentile-Christian views on the Law and practices, with the former sometimes insisting on observing certain Old Testament laws which Paul had taught were not necessary for salvation in Christ.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse highlights the importance of vigilance against false doctrine and manipulation within the church.

It criticizes leaders who use their position for personal gain rather than for serving others, a principle that contrasts heavily with the servant-leadership model Jesus represents in the Gospels.

This verse can be seen as covering both ethical and doctrinal issues: ethically, it condemns the mistreatment of believers; doctrinally, it warns against the acceptance of teachings that deviate from the gospel Paul preached.

Practical Applications

In daily life, this verse encourages Christians to be discerning about whom they allow to influence them spiritually.

It suggests that followers of Christ should not passively accept mistreatment or abusive behavior from their leaders.

The verse can also be applied in recognizing the need for leaders in all areas of life to serve with humility and not exploit their positions of power and influence.

Cross-References

• Matthew 20:25-26 - "But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them.

But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister."

• Galatians 2:4 - "And that because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage."
• 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 - "For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.

And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light."

Language Study

The original Greek terms in this verse are pivotal for understanding its full implication:

• "Bring you into bondage" (καταδουλοῖ, katadouloi): The Greek term refers to enslaving or subjugating individuals, implying a loss of freedom.
• "Devour" (κατεσθίει, katesthiei): This term can mean to consume or to exploit.
• "Take of you" (λαμβάνει, lambanei): It is used metaphorically here to mean taking advantage or exploiting someone.
• "Exalt himself" (ἐπαίρεται, epairetai): This term emphasizes a sense of arrogance or lifting oneself above others.
• "Smite you on the face" (δέρει ὑμᾶς εἰς πρόσωπον, derei hymas eis prosopon): Literally referring to hitting or striking someone on the face, symbolically it could mean an insult to one's dignity or an abuse of authority.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparisons with other ancient cultures show that various religious leaders and ideologies permitted or even encouraged the exploitation of followers, which was a common event across different belief systems.

In contrast, early Christian teaching emphasized the opposite , leaders were to be servants, as exemplified by Jesus washing his disciples' feet.

Scientific Perspectives

This verse does not directly intersect with scientific understandings and is more related to ethical behavior and community dynamics.

However, modern psychological understanding of power dynamics and abuse within organizational structures can provide insight into the behaviors Paul condemns.

From a scientific perspective, the harmful effects of abusive leadership on individual well-being and group cohesion are well-documented.

Commentaries

Various biblical commentators have noted Paul's use of irony and sarcasm in this verse as a rhetorical device to emphasize the absurdity of the Corinthians tolerating such behavior from their leaders.

Many agree that Paul is outlining the antithesis of Christ-like leadership.

Commentators often point out Paul’s concern for the spiritual welfare of the Corinthian church and his intent to contrast the humble servitude of true apostles with the authoritarian practices of the false teachers.