devotional post # 2209

2 Corinthians 11:19-21

2Co 11:19  Because you gladly put up with stupid people, although you are supposed to be wise.
2Co 11:20  Because you put up with it if someone enslaves you, or devours you, or takes advantage of you, or lifts up himself, or punches you in the face.
2Co 11:21  To my embarrassment, I must say, we were too weak for that! But whatever anyone else dares to brag about– I am speaking like one of those stupid people — I also dare to brag about that.

the strong and the stupid

Some false missionaries had taken over the Corinthians churches, brandishing their “wisdom” and “strength” by devouring the sheep and refusing to care for them. Paul was trying to get through to the church members, who thought that enduring that abuse was a sign of godly wisdom. But Paul knew that abuse of one’s authority is neither strength nor wisdom. It is disobedience to God’s command to shepherd gently, and it is a sign of stupidity.

LORD, give us the wisdom to lead gently, and the wisdom to reject those who do not lead gently.