(12) For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart. (13) For whether we be beside ourselves, it is to God: or whether we be sober, it is for your cause. (14) For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: (15) And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again. (16) Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more.
I pass over several of the things contained within those verses, to attend more particularly, to what the Apostle saith in relation to the knowledge of Christ after the flesh. Paul knew nothing of Christ's Person, during our Lord's ministry: so that it is plain, somewhat more is meant by the expression, of knowing Christ after the flesh, than a mere personal knowledge of him, as men usually know one another. And the sense seems to be this: The one sacrifice of the Lord Jesus on the cross, is altogether so great and glorious, and hath such infinite value and efficacy in it, that it can be offered no more. But to know Christ after the flesh, that is coming again in the likeness of sinful flesh, would carry with it an idea as if that one offering of Christ needed to he repealed. A thing in direct opposition to the Whole Gospel. Reader! do not fail to observe, with what earnestness of affection the Apostle regarded the infinitely precious efficacy of Christ's blood. So great to need nothing beside: so effectual, that by it, Jesus hath forever perfected them that are sanctified!