2Cor 5:12-13 | Clarke | e4.org | Verse 12. For we commend not ourselves? ] I do not say these things to bespeak your good opinion, to procure your praise; but to give you an occasion to glory -to exult on our behalf; and to furnish you with an answer to all those who either malign us or our ministry, and who only glory in appearance -have no solid ground of exultation, and whose heart is dishonest and impure. St. Paul probably speaks here concerning the false apostle, who had been dividing the Church and endeavouring to raise a party to himself, by vilifying both the apostle and his doctrine.

‏ 2 Corinthians 5:12-13

Verse 12. For we commend not ourselves?] I do not say these things to bespeak your good opinion, to procure your praise; but to give you an occasion to glory-to exult on our behalf; and to furnish you with an answer to all those who either malign us or our ministry, and who only glory in appearance-have no solid ground of exultation, and whose heart is dishonest and impure. St. Paul probably speaks here concerning the false apostle, who had been dividing the Church and endeavouring to raise a party to himself, by vilifying both the apostle and his doctrine.

Verse 13. Beside ourselves] Probably he was reputed by some to be deranged. Festus thought so: Paul, thou art beside thyself; too much learning hath made thee mad. And his enemies at Corinth might insinuate not only that he was deranged, but attribute his derangement to a less worthy cause than intense study and deep learning.

It is to God] If we do appear, in speaking of the glories of the eternal world, to be transported beyond ourselves, it is through the good hand of our God upon us, and we do it to promote his honour.

Whether we be sober] Speak of Divine things in a more cool and dispassionate manner, it is that we may the better instruct and encourage you.