What is the meaning of 2 Corinthians 10:8?

Even if I boast somewhat excessively

Paul admits, “For even if I boast somewhat excessively…”.

• He recognizes that talking about his own ministry can sound like over-the-top boasting, as he also notes in 2 Corinthians 11:18–21 and 12:1.

• Yet he continues because the situation in Corinth calls for clarity; false teachers are undermining his God-given role (see 2 Corinthians 11:4–6).

• Scripture never forbids truthful testimony when it protects the flock (compare Proverbs 27:2).

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about the authority the Lord gave us

“…about the authority the Lord gave us…”.

• Paul’s authority is not self-appointed; it comes directly from Christ, echoing Galatians 1:1 and Acts 26:16.

• Jesus declared, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me” (Matthew 28:18), and He delegates specific oversight to His apostles (John 20:21).

• Genuine spiritual authority always points back to the Lord as the ultimate Source (1 Corinthians 3:5–7).

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for building you up

“…for building you up…”.

• The purpose of God-given authority is edification, not domination (Ephesians 4:11–12; Acts 20:32).

• Healthy leadership equips believers, strengthens their faith, and promotes unity (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

• Paul’s aim is the spiritual maturity of the Corinthians, not personal gain (2 Corinthians 12:19).

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rather than tearing you down

“…rather than tearing you down…”.

• Authority can be misused, but Paul refuses to wield it destructively (2 Corinthians 13:10; 1 Corinthians 8:1).

• He contrasts his ministry with the abusive tactics of false apostles who “enslave” and “exploit” (2 Corinthians 11:20).

• True shepherds lead by serving, not by crushing (Mark 10:42–45).

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I will not be ashamed

“…I will not be ashamed”.

• Paul stands unashamed because his conscience is clear before God (2 Corinthians 1:12).

• Like Romans 1:16 and Philippians 1:20, he boldly proclaims the gospel and his calling, confident it aligns with Christ’s will.

• When authority is exercised for godly purposes, there is no cause for embarrassment (1 John 2:28).

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summary

Paul acknowledges that his strong words about apostolic authority might sound boastful, yet he speaks openly because Christ Himself entrusted that authority to him. Its sole aim is to build up believers, never to harm them. Confident that he is using this authority exactly as the Lord intends, Paul remains entirely unashamed.