Scripture focus
Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? If any man trust to himself that he is Christ’s, let him of himself think this again, that, as he [is] Christ’s, even so [are] we Christ’s.
2 Corinthians 10:7 — KJV
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King James Version (KJV)
“In our prayers we talk to God, in our Bible study God talks to us, and we had better let God do most of the talking.”
— D.L. Moody
Scripture focus
Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? If any man trust to himself that he is Christ’s, let him of himself think this again, that, as he [is] Christ’s, even so [are] we Christ’s.
2 Corinthians 10:7 — KJV
Do ye look? The Greek may be translated as a question, as an imperative, or as a simple statement. As a question it would be one of disapproval — Are the Corinthians judging on the basis of outward appearance? As an imperative it would call upon them to open their eyes to the obvious facts. As a simple statement it would be a charge that some of the Corinthians are still looking on outward appearances. Whichever of these three Paul may have intended, the statement implies that they have not critically examined the charges brought against him. Their conclusions have been reached emotionally rather than logically, and on the basis of outward appearances (see on ch. 5:12). Surface judgments are popular because few people are willing to reserve judgment until they have had an opportunity to examine all the evidence.
If any man. Paul here seems to refer either to one of the leaders of the opposition or to some who were sincere at heart but still confused in their thinking. The context seems to favor the former. Compare the “some” of v. 2 (cf. ch. 11:4, 20).
He is Christ’s. That is, claims to be a duly appointed representative of Christ.
Even so are we. Paul here refers to his own official commission as an apostle. In this and the two following chapters he repeatedly refers to his qualifications as an ambassador of Christ. His authority is equal to that of the Twelve (chs. 11:5; 12:11, 12). He was called and commissioned directly by the Lord (Acts 9:3-9; 22:17-21; cf. 1 Cor. 15:8; 2 Cor. 10:14—18). He had experienced fellowship with Christ in His sufferings (ch. 11:23-33). He had received visions and revelations directly from Christ (ch. 12:1-6).
By SdaBc