2 Corinthians 1:12

Our conscience. Paul now begins his discussion of recent relations between himself and the church at Corinth. He had claimed the right to their intercessory prayers (v. 11), and now declares he has not forfeited that claim by his past or present conduct. His conscience fully acquits him. Incidentally, Paul makes repeated reference to the testimony of his conscience (see Acts 23:1; 24:16; Rom. 9:1). Some of the Corinthians had charged him with questionable and insincere intentions with respect to his change of plans regarding his announced visit to Corinth (see 2 Cor. 1:15). But his conscience was void of offense before God, before the Gentiles, and in particular before the Corinthians.

In simplicity. Textual evidence favors (cf. p. 10) the reading “in holiness.” Paul’s attitude was the result of unreserved surrender to the will of God.

Fleshy wisdom. See on Rom. 7:24; 2 Cor. 10:2; cf. on 1 Cor. 9:27. Paul lives and labors in a wholly spiritual atmosphere, uninfluenced by considerations that motivate men of the world. “Fleshly wisdom” is the wisdom of the unregenerate man, who is not under the influence of the Spirit of God. Human wisdom may appear profound, but it often deceives.

Have ... conversation. Gr. anastrepho, literally, “to turn again,” that is, to turn hither and thither, and thus “to conduct [oneself],” “to live.” Variously translated, anastrepho appears in this sense in Eph. 2:3; 1 Tim. 3:15; Heb. 13:18; 1 Peter 1:17; 2 Peter 2:18. The noun form, anastrophe, means “manner of life,” “behavior,” “conduct” (see Gal. 1:13; Eph. 4:22; James 3:13; 2 Peter 3:11; etc.). In Old English the word “conversation” meant “conduct,” “way of life.” In modern usage “conversation” has come to denote talk that turns from one person to another.

Nothing keeps a man steady under manifold sufferings like a clear conscience. Suffering is greatly intensified by a conscience that keeps telling a man he has brought the trouble on himself. He is reaping only what he has sown. See 1 Peter 2:12, 19, 20. It was a “good conscience” that sustained Paul throughout his trial, first in Jerusalem (Acts 23:1) and later at Caesarea (ch. 24:16). The height of moral stature is achieved only when “the Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God” (Rom. 8:16). The certain conviction of one’s clear acceptance with God and his standing in his sight is the only permanent basis for lasting joy.

To you-ward. Paul had given the Corinthians ample opportunity to observe the grace of God at work in his own life.