2 Corinthians 10:4

Carnal. Rev., better, of the flesh, thus preserving the play on the words. The idea of weakness attaches to that of fleshliness. See on sarx flesh, sec. 4, Romans 7:5.

Through God [τ ω θ ε ω]. Lit., mighty unto God, in God's sight. See on exceeding fair, Acts 7:20. Rev., before God.

Pulling down [κ α θ α ι ρ ε σ ι ν]. Only in this epistle. Compare Luke 1:52. Also used of taking down pride, or refuting arguments.

Of strongholds [ο χ υ ρ ω μ α τ ω ν]. Only here in the New Testament. From ecw to hold, so that holds is an accurate rendering. Compare keep, a dungeon. The word is not common in classical Greek, but occurs frequently in the Apocrypha. In its use here there may lie a reminiscence of the rock - forts on the coast of Paul's native Cilicia, which were pulled down by the Rom. in their attacks on the Cilician pirates. Pompey inflicted a crushing defeat upon their navy off the rocky stronghold of Coracesium on the confines of Cilicia and Pisidia.