2 Corinthians 13:8 Commentary and Bible Study

Paul here explains why it is that he must put first his consideration for the spiritual welfare of the Corinthians, even at the cost of his own reputation. It is because of the nature of the ministry he has been given. In the exercise of that ministry he is not permitted by the Lord to do anything that is against the truth. He can only act for the advance of the truth, and that means for the edification and blessing of all God’s people, including the Corinthians. If, in order to achieve this, he must suffer slander and ignominy, then this is the Lord’s will, and is part of the price he pays for carrying it out faithfully. But he dare not deviate an inch from the path set by God for him, else he would bring judgment on himself. Those therefore who abuse their office and use it to justify all manner of evil practices which do not have the advance of the gospel uppermost, are false shepherds, and the God’s people have no obligation to follow them.