2 Corinthians 11:1 (KJV)

What does 2 Corinthians 11:1 mean?

2 Corinthians 11:1 shows Paul asking the Corinthians to put up with him as he speaks in a way that might sound foolish, because he has something important to say. Paul wants his readers to be patient as he defends himself and his ministry, even if his words seem a bit out of the ordinary.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, addressing believers who have questioned his authority and compared him to other teachers. In this verse, Paul uses the word "folly" to describe his own defense, acknowledging that boasting about himself is not his usual style. He asks the Corinthians to bear with him as he continues, setting the stage for a deeper discussion about his relationship with them and his role as an apostle.

The Greek behind 2 Corinthians 11:1

• "folly" (ἀφροσύνη, aphrosynē): This Greek word means "foolishness" or "lack of sense." Paul uses it to describe his own self-defense, signaling that he knows boasting is not typically wise or spiritual, but he feels it is necessary here.
• "bear" (ἀνέχεσθε, anechesthe): This word means "to endure" or "to put up with." Paul repeats it, emphasizing his request for patience from the Corinthians as he makes his case.
• "indeed" (καί, kai; δέ, de): The Greek here can mean "and indeed" or "but in fact," adding emphasis to Paul's request and showing he is aware they are already tolerating him to some extent.

Why 2 Corinthians 11:1 matters

• This verse clears up that Paul is not comfortable boasting, but feels driven to do so because of the situation in Corinth, where his authority is being challenged.
• It highlights Paul's humility and self-awareness, as he labels his own defense as "folly" rather than claiming it is noble or impressive.
• The verse sets the tone for the following section, where Paul will defend his ministry and warn against false teachers, helping readers understand why he speaks so openly about himself.