2 Corinthians 10:8

Boast. Gr. kauchaomai, “to boast,” “to glory.” Paul uses the word 21 times in this epistle. Apparently the false leaders at Corinth had engaged in considerable egotistical boasting (see on ch. 5:12). It is now Paul’s turn to boast, but he does so reluctantly, in moderation, and with the sole purpose of confirming his authority as an apostle of Christ, for the benefit of any who might as yet honestly be confused in the matter.

In this matter there was one great difference between Paul and the false leaders. They boasted of an authority that was, in fact, only of human origin and selfish in its aims. Paul boasted of an authority that was divinely bestowed and exercised for the edification of the church. Since his authority was from God, the Corinthians were to acknowledge and respect it. The result would be the edification of the church at Corinth, the defeat of the schismatic elements, and the vindication of Paul as an apostle of Jesus Christ.

Edification. Literally, “building up.” Paul’s use of this word implies the figure of the Christian as a temple in which God dwells (1 Cor. 3:9-17; 2 Cor. 6:16; Eph. 2:20-22; 1 Peter 2:4, 5). Gospel authority is for the purpose of building up, and not of tearing down. The aim of the false leaders at Corinth was to exalt, or build up, themselves, and the effect was to divide and tear down the church. Paul had founded the church at Corinth, and his exercise of authority, even in severe discipline, was designed to build it up.

Not be ashamed. The false apostles at Corinth had purposed to put Paul to shame by ridiculing him as an apostle and by making light of his gospel. Paul declares that his purpose in boasting “somewhat” of his “authority” as an apostle is in defense of his apostleship and of his gospel. He has no ulterior motives.