2 Corinthians 2:6

Howbeit. Or, “but.” This introduces the second section of the argument in ch. 2, in which Paul shows that it is only the mind surrendered to the Holy Spirit that can understand and appreciate the gospel. Although Paul had not approached the Corinthians with the excellency of human wisdom, nevertheless he had brought to them a treasure of true wisdom. Perfect. Gr. teleioi, “full grown,” “mature” (see on Matt. 5:48). Paul is here describing mature Christians. See Eph. 4:13, 14, where he contrasts a “perfect” (teleios) man with “children.” Compare Phil. 3:15, where Paul speaks of himself and others as “perfect” (teleioi). In Heb. 5:14 teleioi is rendered “of full age.” The Christian should grow in knowledge of the truth and should not require continual feeding with spiritual “milk” (Heb. 5:12, 13). Jesus Himself hinted that the representation of doctrine should be adapted to the various stages of Christian growth (see John 16:12). Paul reminded the Corinthian believers that he was addressing his instruction to those who had already learned the rudiments of Christianity and should now be able to appreciate the more profound truths of the gospel (see Cor. 3:1-3). Wisdom of this world. See on ch. 1:21, 22. Princes of this world. These are identified in v. 8 as the ones who crucified Jesus. Come to nought. The Greek indicates that the coming to nought is in the process of being accomplished. Worldly-wise great men, with all their learning and achievement, are constantly being proved unreliable in the realm of spiritual truth. In the light of the wisdom taught by Christ, they are found to be ignorant and powerless.