II Corinthians 10-12

“Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me” (12:9). The Corinthians, like us, were easily dazzled by human-style displays of power from charismatic leaders. Paul’s spiritual leadership was being threatened by individuals who called themselves “super-apostles” (11:5-15), boasted about their skills, and demanded money from the congregations. But Paul taught that leaders who imitate Christ do not live by the “standards of the world” nor fight battles with the world’s weapons (10:1-6).

Instead of using manipulation or boasting, true spiritual leadership works through “the humility and gentleness of Christ,” relying on divine power to break strongholds and promote obedience to Jesus (10:1-6).