Paul set forth in these first six verses his intentions toward the false teachers and those in the church who followed them.
He wrote of the authority and approach he would take in this defense by defining his power. It was a –

1. Superior power. 10:1a
2. Sensitive power. 10:1b-2
3. Sufficient power. 10:3-6
4. Securing poweer. 10:6

Beginning in verse 7, he wrote that his authority was founded upon a –

5. Sanctifying power. 2 Corinthians 10:7-18

a. His position. 10:7-12 His authority was given by God.

Acts 9:15 But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:

1 Timothy 1:12 And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry;

1). Authority was invested by God in Paul’s preaching, teaching, and writing!
2). Authority was invested by God in Paul’s person as His servant.

a). The wise servant will evaluate himself according to his obedience to God’s will for his life.
b). The unwise will evaluate himself according to the abilities and actions of others.

3). Authority was invested by God in the offices that He established for His church.

a). The requirement of the children of God – To know and respect the offices as noted in –

Ephesians 4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

Only two offices exist in our day – evangelists, pastors and teachers. Believers are commanded to submit to the authority of these officers –

Hebrews 13:7 Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.

Hebrews 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves.

b). The requirement of the called of God: to love –

1 Peter 5:2-4 Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.

1). To love God. “…the Chief Shepherd…”
2). To love God’s people “…feed the flock…”
3). To lead “…being ensamples to the flock…”