The last five chapters (10-13) of 2 Corinthians are strikingly different in tone than the first 9 chapters. This is probably because as Paul was writing the letter, he received new information about the Corinthian church that gave him concern.
So in the latter part of the letter, Paul comes out swinging against his opponents who were attacking the legitimacy of his apostleship on the basis of his weaknesses.
His opponents called themselves the “super-apostles”. These were professionals, polished, eloquent, trained in rhetoric, who would come with impressive letters of recommendation. Since they were professionals, they came asking a fee for their services, something Paul had not done.
They contrasted themselves with Paul: “He’s not even eloquent! His speeches are long, boring and worthless! He doesn’t charge you because he’s not a professional! And where are his letters of recommendation?” (Read 10.10)
The problem with the super apostles was that they were not talking about the real Jesus or preaching the real gospel (11.4). Their presentation was all show and no substance.
They were giving the Corinthians a nicely wrapped box of crap.
We are easily deceived by appearances. We are fooled by the glitz and the glamor. We think, how can this person be wrong? They are so cool, so beautiful, so stylish, so well-spoken. But we must consider the truth of what they say, not the hipness of their person or presentation.
The truth is, people who judge according to appearances are the kind of people who miss the crucified Jesus. After all, dying screaming and naked on a cross isn’t very cool. And yet, this was how God was saving the world.
Don’t be deluded by appearances. Go for substance.
Lord, help me to see through the nicely-wrapped lies that I am so prone to believe, and to embrace the truth, even when it isn’t so pretty. Amen.
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