Speaking

Even if I am unskilled in speaking, I am not so in knowledge; indeed, in every way we have made this plain to you in all things.

2 Corinthians 11:6 ESV


Paul had had a top education under Gamaliel, a leading Jew of the time. But either rhetoric wasn't top of the Jewish curriculum, or else Paul didn't excel at it, but he apparently wasn't a skillful speaker. Thankfully, what he lacked in charismatic oratory, he more than made up for in his written work.


Paul's writings don't just showcase his knowledge in spiritual matters, but also his competency. He was commissioned by the risen Christ to take the good news to the Gentiles, having persecuted his people who trusted Christ. And he obeyed his calling with great zeal and effectiveness.


The implication in this verse is unlike some of his critics, Paul isn't simply a bag of wind. There's substance to his arguments. He's not just some 'lifestyle guru' who tickles the ears and massages the egos.


Sadly, it seems the Corinthian church had been led astray by some false teachers, or at least teachers who promoted themselves over Christ. Here Paul seeks to redress the balance. Make sure your teachers exalt Christ, is what he would tell us.


'Lord our God, may we exalt You, and not ourselves, in our lives. For the honour of Your name, amen'

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