2 Corinthians 11:7 (KJV)
Have I committed an offence in abasing myself that ye might be exalted, because I have preached to you the gospel of God freely?

There are at least two obvious subjects at issue in this passage:

One is financial
Paul did not insist on financial care. Though he readily admitted that such was ethical and right, in the case of the Corinthians he chose not to either require or accept compensation from them. Any discerning person can tell when money is going to hinder a cause. Paul refused to allow it to do so.

The other is eloquence
Paul’s manner was not one of polish and performance. He used plain speech easily understood by the unlearned. He was quick to point out that this in no way meant he was unlearned but that he chose not to communicate in that style.

Why would either of these be offensive? Why would he possibly be attacked for either of these?

It was because, by choosing the course he did, he set himself in opposition to another cast of “preacher.” His course separates him from those who insisted on being well compensated for their apparent learning. Paul bluntly called them false, deceitful and ministers of Satan.

Now we have a new generation of Christians, often led by younger pastors, who are once again enamored by the seemingly higher educated. They turn to those in the Reformed Theology schools for their doctrine and for their refinement. I suspect it is also so they may receive better compensation for their “work.”

Why must they turn to them? There are, among Baptists, many solid, wise, experienced and powerful men of God from whom they might seek wisdom. The trouble is, those men have chosen to use plainness of speech over enticing words and truth over paychecks.

And those men are not afraid to call the reformers what they are: false, deceitful and ministers of Satan.

To my readers:
First of all, thank you! It is a great joy to me to know you read the thoughts and lessons God has given me in His word. Secondly, I would love to hear from you. Please feel free to leave comments.

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2 Corinthians 11:7 (KJV) Truth over Eloquence

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