2 Corinthians 10:18

The Lord commendeth. A position of leadership presents the temptation to accept the plaudits of men and take selfish pride in one’s achievements. The next step is a desire to exercise arbitrary authority over others. For the Christian, however, the only desirable approval is the approval of God (see Rom. 2:29; 1 Cor. 3:13, 14; 4:1-6). Only those who endure this test, and triumph over conceit, pride, and self-exaltation, will receive the approval of God. The self-commendation of the false apostles at Corinth, who in reality had no success of their own to boast of, conclusively proved them to be wholly without approval from God. For comment as to the basis on which God rewards service see on Matt. 20:1-16.