2 Corinthians 10:7
Do ye look on things after the outward appearance? If any man trust to himself that he is Christ's, let him of himself think this again, that, as he is Christ's, even so are we Christ's.
2 Corinthians 10:7 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from 2 Corinthians 10:7 challenges believers to look beyond outward appearances and not to boast about their relationship with Christ. The Apostle Paul is cautioning against placing too much emphasis on appearances, status, or personal claims of spirituality. He reminds them that all believers belong to Christ, and no one should consider themselves superior or more special than others. Paul is urging humility and unity among believers, emphasizing the importance of seeing each other as equals in the eyes of Christ. By questioning those who trust in themselves as being exclusively Christ's, Paul emphasizes the need for self-reflection and a humble attitude towards one's relationship with Christ. This verse serves as a reminder to all believers to focus on the unity we share in Christ, rather than on individual boasting or comparisons.
Theological Overview
In this passage, the Apostle Paul is urging the Corinthian believers to look beyond mere appearances when judging spiritual matters. He challenges them to consider whether they are truly in Christ by examining their actions and attitudes. The phrase "if any man trust to himself that he is Christ's" refers to someone who is proud or self-assured in their relationship with Christ. Paul warns that such individuals should reconsider their position, as they are not the only ones who belong to Christ. He emphasizes the unity of believers in Christ by stating, "even so are we Christ's," highlighting the shared identity and belonging of all followers of Jesus. This passage serves as a reminder to practice humility and to not elevate oneself above others in spiritual matters, but to recognize that all who belong to Christ are equal in His sight.
2 Corinthians 10:7 in other translations
American Standard Version
Ye look at the things that are before your face. If any man trusteth in himself that he is Christ's, let him consider this again with himself, that, even as he is Christ's, so also are we.
World English Bible
Do you look at things only as they appear in front of your face? If anyone trusts in himself that he is Christ’s, let him consider this again with himself, that, even as he is Christ’s, so also we are Christ’s.
Douay-Rheims
See the things that are according to outward appearance. If any man trust to himself, that he is Christ's let him think this again with himself, that as he is Christ's, so are we also.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Looke yee on things after the appearance? If any man trust in himselfe that hee is Christes, let him consider this againe of himself, that as he is Christes, euen so are we Christes.