2 Corinthians 10:1-6 (Part 51) Paul on Defense/Offense

Paul on the defensive, 10:1-2

• What he is accused of, v. 1

• The vocal minority infiltrated the church, v. 2

Paul on the offensive, 10:3-6 (tonight’s emphasis)

• It is one thing to live in this world; it is another thing to have worldly conduct.

• The nature of our weapons, v. 4: 1) In terms of effectiveness: 2) In terms of purpose: a) Tear down; b) Replace

• The nature of our victory, vv. 4-6: 1) Negative, vv. 4-5a: Anything that stands in the way of knowing God—destroy it; b) Positive, vv. 5-6: Take every thought captive

Themes that come up

• At issue is Paul’s authority

• The ultimate issue is the Word of God

• Paul’s defense of himself will reveal his opponents’ tactics: 1) They were intruders from without; 2) They made exaggerated claims; 3) They were robed in super piety; 4) They are apparently Judaizers; 5) They were morally impure; 6) They were without principle.