For whether we are beside ourselves, it is unto God; or whether we are of sober mind, it is unto you.
Wicked and carnal men call the servants of God madmen because the workings of grace are far above reason. Self-denial, burning zeal, holy seriousness, patient meekness under reproach, all these acts of holiness the profane world esteems as madness. Yet whether Paul seemed transported in his zeal or sober in his words, it was all for God's cause and your benefit, never his own.
AI summary
For the love of Christ constraineth us,.... Or "containeth us"; holds and keeps us in our station and duty, as soldiers are held and kept together under a banner, or ensign displayed; to which the church refers, when she says, "his banner over me was love", Sol 2:4.
Paul defends himself not to win credit but to arm you against his slanderers, who swagger in appearance while he labors for your souls. When he speaks of his zeal, some call him mad; but whether he burns hot or reasons cool, it is all for God's glory and your good, driven by the love of Christ that will not let him rest.
AI summary
Commenting on 2 Corinthians 5:12-15