Not boasting of things without our measure, that is, of other men's labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly,

2 CORINTHIANS 10:15KJV
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2 Corinthians 10:15 (KJV)

What does 2 Corinthians 10:15 mean?

2 Corinthians 10:15 describes how Paul and his companions do not brag about work done by others or claim credit for things outside their responsibility. Instead, Paul expresses hope that as the faith of the Corinthian believers grows, his own ministry among them will also expand, following the limits God has set for him.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, explaining how he measures his ministry honestly, without overstepping or taking credit for what others have done. He wants the Corinthians to know that he hopes their growing faith will allow him to serve them even more, but always within the boundaries God has given him. This verse shows Paul’s careful attitude about ministry and his respect for God’s assignments.

The Greek behind 2 Corinthians 10:15

  • "boasting" (καυχώμενοι, kauchōmenoi): This word means to take pride in or brag about something. Paul uses it here to stress that he is not claiming achievements that belong to others.
  • "measure" (μέτρον, metron): This refers to a limit or boundary. Paul is careful to stay within the area God has assigned to him, not reaching into another’s work.
  • "faith" (πίστις, pistis): This word means trust or belief. Paul’s hope is tied to the Corinthians’ faith growing, which would allow his ministry to grow as well.
  • "enlarged" (μεγαλυνθῆναι, megalynthēnai): This means to be made greater or increased. Paul looks forward to his ministry being expanded through the faith of the Corinthians.

Why 2 Corinthians 10:15 matters

  • This verse clarifies that Paul does not seek to take credit for the work of others, showing his integrity and humility in ministry.
  • Paul’s focus on “measure” and “rule” highlights that he sees his ministry as something given and limited by God, not something to be expanded by ambition or comparison.
  • The verse connects to the larger theme in 2 Corinthians 10, where Paul defends his ministry and explains how true spiritual work is measured—not by outward success, but by faithfulness to God’s calling.

Where else these words appear

“measure” Greek G280 · used in 2 verses

  • 2 Corinthians 10:13 But we will not boast of things without our measure, but according to the measure of the rule which God hath distributed to us, a measure to reach even unto you.

“abundantly” Greek G4050 · used in 4 verses

  • Romans 5:17 For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)
  • 2 Corinthians 8:2 How that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded unto the riches of their liberality.
  • James 1:21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.

“rule” Greek G2583 · used in 5 verses

  • 2 Corinthians 10:13 But we will not boast of things without our measure, but according to the measure of the rule which God hath distributed to us, a measure to reach even unto you.
  • 2 Corinthians 10:16 To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man's line of things made ready to our hand.
  • Galatians 6:16 And as many as walk according to this rule, peace be on them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God.

“enlarged” Greek G3170 · used in 8 verses

  • Matthew 23:5 But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments,
  • Luke 1:58 And her neighbours and her cousins heard how the Lord had shewed great mercy upon her; and they rejoiced with her.
  • Acts 10:46 For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter,