6/10 - 2 Corinthians 10

In this chapter Paul again defends himself against accusations from false teachers that he was weak when he was with the Corinthians but bold and assertive when he was away. In the face of these claims, he had this to offer:

"³ For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh. ⁴ For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, ⁵ casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, ⁶ and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled." (v. 3-6)

I think Paul rightly justifies himself here and also provides us insight into a right perspective concerning conflicts. Imagine that, after dedicating your life to evangelism and consequently being scourged, beaten & imprisoned, some random individuals show up questioning your validity as a minister. Now, in later chapters Paul would go on to defend himself and discredit the false apostles, but here he recognizes that his war is not with them. Fighting satanic falsehoods & deception with human tactics (ingenuity, worldly wisdom, clever methodologies, will power) will lead to a lost battle.

I remember back in the day watching a certain cartoon and when danger arose, a token townsperson would yell, "This is a job for Superman!" The townspeople had no intention of taking the task on themselves because they knew their tactics were useless, especially in light of a man who was more than capable to handle it. It's the same with us - there needs to be a clear recognition that when in spiritual battle, it's not us but the Word of Truth that is able to demolish anything that sets itself against God. For us to take full advantage of this truth we need God's word in us, which necessitates a regular diet of Bible study (Psalm 119:97-100).