Matthew Poole and continuators on 2 Corinthians 13:9

9 For we are glad when we are weak , and ye are strong : and this also we wish, even your perfection .

Some by Weakness here understand, a moral impotency; as the Apostle had said, he could not do any thing against the truth, that is rightly and justly he could not.

And by strong here, a spiritual strength, a reformation, growth, and proficiency in grace. These make the sence to be this; I am so far from coming with a desire to shew amongst you my Apostolical power in punishing offenders, as that I should be glad to find you so strong in the exercise of grace, that I should find none to punish; that men be made weak (as to the putting forth that power) by your spiritual strength. I incline to a more general interpretation. The Apostle by this purgeth himself from any thing of Vain-glory, or seeking himself; Though saith he) I be weak, (as some amongst you report me) yet if you be truly strong, I shall heartily rejoice therein.

For I wish nothing more than your perfection; my reputation is nothing to me compared with that.

Marginal references: 1 Cor. 4.10. C[illegible: 1 letter]p. 11.30. [illegible: 1 letter] 12.5, 9, 10.