2 Corinthians 10:7

10:7 You are looking at outward appearances. ¹  If anyone is confident that he belongs to Christ, he should reflect on this again: Just as he himself belongs to Christ, so too do we.

2 Corinthians 10:12

Paul’s Mission

10:12 For we would not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some of those who recommend themselves. But when they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are without understanding. ² 

2 Corinthians 10:15

10:15 Nor do we boast beyond certain limits ³  in the work ⁴  done by others, but we hope ⁵  that as your faith continues to grow, our work may be greatly expanded ⁶  among you according to our limits, ⁷ 

¹ tn The phrase is close to a recognized idiom for judging based on outward appearances (L&N 30.120). Some translators see a distinction, however, and translate 2 Cor 10:7a as “Look at what is in front of your eyes,” that is, the obvious facts of the case (so NRSV).

² tn Or “they are unintelligent.”

³ tn Or “boast excessively.” The phrase εἰς τὰ ἄμετρα (ei" ta ametra) is an idiom; literally it means “into that which is not measured,” that is, a point on a scale that goes beyond what might be expected (L&N 78.27).

⁴ tn Or “in the labors.”

⁵ tn Grk “but we have the hope.”

⁶ tn Or “greatly enlarged.”

⁷ tn That is, Paul’s work might be greatly expanded within the area of activity assigned to him by God.