2 Corinthians 10:17 (KJV)

What does 2 Corinthians 10:17 mean?

2 Corinthians 10:17 says that if anyone wants to boast or take pride in something, they should boast about the Lord, not themselves. This verse points readers away from self-praise and toward recognizing God as the true source of anything worth celebrating.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, addressing issues of pride and comparison among believers. Some people in the church were bragging about their own achievements or status. Paul reminds them that real honor comes from what God does, not from human accomplishments.

The Greek behind 2 Corinthians 10:17

• "glorieth" (καυχάομαι, kauchaomai): This Greek word means to boast, take pride, or rejoice. Here, it suggests the act of expressing pride or satisfaction, but Paul redirects that impulse toward God rather than oneself.
• "glory" (καυχάομαι, kauchaomai): The same Greek word is used again, emphasizing that any boasting should have the Lord as its focus.
• "in" (ἐν, en): This preposition means "in" or "within." It clarifies that the boasting is to happen "in the Lord," not just about Him but rooted in relationship with Him.
• "Lord" (Κύριος, Kyrios): This word refers to God, specifically recognizing His authority and role as the one worthy of praise.

Why 2 Corinthians 10:17 matters

• This verse corrects the common tendency to seek recognition for personal achievements, reminding readers that true worth comes from God.
• It connects to Paul's larger argument in this letter, where he contrasts worldly standards of success with spiritual reality.
• The verse highlights a key value in Christian community: humility before God, rather than competition or self-promotion among people.