2 Corinthians 10:8

8. It is not easy to decide between ἐάν τε (אCDKLP, f Vulg.) and ἐάν (BFG 17, Chrys.).

8. Evidence, put hypothetically (ἐάν), but with confidence (indic. apodosis), that he is a minister of Christ, at least as much as his critics are. Supposing that his language were still stronger, it will not prove empty self-assertion. With τε γάρ comp. Romans 7:7 : the τε looks forward to another τε (which after all does not come) and has been omitted in some texts as superfluous: see critical note. For though I should glory somewhat more abundantly about our authority, which the Lord gave for building you up, and not for casting you down (2 Corinthians 10:4), I shall not be put to shame (by being shown to be a pretentious impostor): οὐ δειχθήσομαι ψευδόμενος, οὐδὲ� (Chrys.). The περισσότερον probably refers to 2 Corinthians 10:3-6, in which he makes large claims to authority, authority which might have to be used εἰς καθαίρεσιν, but was not given for that purpose. Strong as his language is, it might be somewhat stronger and be justified. There may be a hint that the work of his opponents is εἰς καθαίρεσιν, and not at all εἰς οἰκοδομήν. No limit must be placed to οὐκ αἰσχυνθήσομαι, such as ‘at the Day of Judgment’: never at any time will he be convicted of empty self-assertion.