2 Corinthians 12:19

2 Corinthians 12:19 to 2 Corinthians 13:10. The Apostle's intentions on his arrival

19. Again, think you that we excuse ourselves. Rather, Do ye think that we are defending ourselves again? Many MSS. and versions read, Do you think(or You think) that we have been defending ourselves to you this long time? The word excusegives a false impression, as though the Apostle were exculpating himself from blame rather than meeting accusations by sufficient answers. If we take the first reading the reference will be to the former Epistle or the commencement of this one. Cf. ch. 2 Corinthians 3:1. If the second, the meaning will be -you think that I have been making a long and perhaps tedious defence of myself, yet I can assure you that I shall not stand upon my defence when I come. I only desire your improvement. But if words will not suffice, I shall have, when I come, to proceed to deeds."

we speak before God in Christ This sense of saying and doing everything in the sight of God and Christ, Who will avenge all deceit by unmasking the deceiver, is a characteristic of St Paul's whole nature, but is never more clearly displayed than in this Epistle. See ch. 2 Corinthians 1:18; 2 Corinthians 1:23 2 Corinthians 2:17, 2 Corinthians 3:4 2 Corinthians 4:2; 2 Corinthians 4:6; 2 Corinthians 5:11 2 Corinthians 7:12, 2 Corinthians 8:21; 2 Corinthians 11:10-11; 2 Corinthians 11:31.

edifying See 1 Corinthians 8:1, and ch. 2 Corinthians 5:1; 2 Corinthians 10:8.