2 Corinthians 10 3

2 Corinthians 10:3 kjv

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:

2 Corinthians 10:3 nkjv

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh.

2 Corinthians 10:3 niv

For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does.

2 Corinthians 10:3 esv

For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh.

2 Corinthians 10:3 nlt

We are human, but we don't wage war as humans do.

2 Corinthians 10 verses

2 Corinthians 10 3 Meaning

This verse distinguishes between the physical existence of believers as human beings and the non-human means by which they engage in spiritual warfare. Paul acknowledges that he and his fellow ministers are physically present, inhabiting human bodies and subject to human frailties ("walk in the flesh"). However, he emphatically asserts that their battle strategies, methods, and weapons are not derived from or powered by human principles, worldly wisdom, or carnal strength ("do not war according to the flesh"). It sets the stage for understanding the divine nature and spiritual power that characterize true Christian ministry and spiritual conflict.

2 Corinthians 10 3 Context

2 Corinthians 10 initiates a section where Paul directly confronts his detractors in Corinth, who had undermined his apostolic authority and disparaged his character and ministry. These opponents, often referred to as "super-apostles" or false teachers, likely boasted in worldly credentials, rhetorical skill, and imposing presence, accusing Paul of being weak, unimpressive in person, and lacking the sophisticated oratorical style expected of a leader. This specific verse, 2 Corinthians 10:3, serves as Paul's foundational declaration concerning the nature of his ministry. He acknowledges his human existence in the "flesh," responding to criticisms about his physical person, but sharply distinguishes it from the way he conducts "warfare," asserting that his methods are fundamentally spiritual and not governed by worldly or human standards, setting the stage for his defense and explanation of the true power of God working through weakness.

2 Corinthians 10 3 Word analysis

• For (γάρ - gar): A conjunction that often introduces an explanation or justification. Here, it signals that Paul is explaining how he, though physically present, differs from worldly opponents, laying the groundwork for the ensuing contrast between human appearance and spiritual warfare.
• though we walk (περιπατοῦμεν - peripatoumen): From `περιπατέω` (peripateo), literally "to walk around," but commonly used metaphorically in the New Testament to signify one's conduct, manner of life, or habitual behavior. The present tense indicates an ongoing reality.
• in the flesh (ἐν σαρκί - en sarki): `σαρκί` is the dative of `σάρξ` (sarx), which refers to the physical human body and human nature, with its inherent limitations and weaknesses. "In the flesh" here acknowledges Paul's human existence and mortality, implying that he shares in common humanity, subject to physical appearance and perception, not necessarily a sinful nature in this context.
• we do not war (οὐ στρατευόμεθα - ou strateuometha): `στρατεύω` (strateuo) means "to serve as a soldier," "to go to war," or "to fight." The negative particle `οὐ` (ou) is a strong, objective denial, clearly stating that their warfare is not conducted in a certain manner. This refers to an intense, sustained spiritual battle, implying strategic conflict rather than casual disagreement.
• according to the flesh (κατὰ σάρκα - kata sarka): `σάρκα` is the accusative of `σάρξ` (sarx), used with `κατὰ` (kata) which means "according to" or "in agreement with." This phrase defines the manner or principle by which the "warfare" is conducted. It refers to human, worldly principles, methods, and power (e.g., cunning, human eloquence, worldly status, physical might), which are sharply contrasted with divine means. This isn't about being in a body, but acting like the body/human wisdom is the ultimate guide.

• "though we walk in the flesh, we do not war": This grouping highlights the core tension. Paul affirms his physical humanity ("walk in the flesh") but strongly rejects the notion that his spiritual conflict is limited by or waged by human means. It is a vital distinction between existing as a human and acting from mere human power.
• "in the flesh" vs. "according to the flesh": This contrast is crucial for understanding Paul's theology of `sarx`. "In the flesh" (ἐν σαρκί) describes his condition or sphere of existence as a human being. "According to the flesh" (κατὰ σάρκα) describes the principle or method by which something is done. Paul lives as a human, but he doesn't fight by human-devised tactics or strengths; his warfare is directed by another principle—God's Spirit and power.

2 Corinthians 10 3 Bonus section

This verse introduces a critical paradox evident throughout Paul's writings: the power of God manifested in human weakness. His Corinthian critics saw his physical plainness, lack of imposing rhetoric, and humble lifestyle as signs of weakness, comparing him unfavorably to more flamboyant "super-apostles." However, Paul consistently taught that God's power is perfected in weakness, not diminished by it. This is a theological underpinning for understanding why the Christian message and method often appear foolish or impotent by worldly standards. The "warfare" mentioned here is comprehensive, encompassing not just direct spiritual battles against demonic forces, but also the struggle against worldly wisdom, human pride, and the very ideas that exalt themselves against the knowledge of God (as elaborated in verses 4-5). It defines the battleground as much mental and ideological as it is supernatural.

2 Corinthians 10 3 Commentary

Paul’s statement in 2 Corinthians 10:3 is a profound declaration about the spiritual nature of Christian ministry and the battle against spiritual opposition. He directly addresses the accusations of his opponents, who judged him by worldly standards of strength, charisma, and eloquence. While acknowledging his human vulnerability (walking "in the flesh"), he fundamentally rejects conducting ministry or spiritual combat using carnal or human-centered methodologies ("not war according to the flesh"). This distinction is vital: our existence is human, but our strategies for engaging the spiritual realm must transcend human limitations. True spiritual warfare relies not on persuasive speech, worldly power, or impressive displays of self, but on divine power and principles, even when such an approach appears weak or foolish to the world. It is a call to a ministry that embodies Christ's counter-cultural weakness as the avenue for God's ultimate strength.