Question 1

What does 2 Corinthians 11:18 mean?

Accepted Answer

2 Corinthians 11:18 means that since many people boast about their achievements or status in a worldly way, Paul says he will also speak about himself in a similar manner. Paul is responding to those who take pride in outward, human things, and he signals that he will match their approach for the sake of making a point. Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, addressing a situation where some people are boasting about their credentials or spiritual experiences to gain influence. By saying he will "glory also," Paul prepares his readers for a bit of irony—he does not actually value this kind of boasting, but he will use their own style to expose its emptiness and defend his ministry.

Question 2

The Greek behind 2 Corinthians 11:18

Accepted Answer

"glory" (καυχάομαι, kauchaomai): This word means to boast or take pride in something. Paul uses it here to mirror the boasting of others, but with a hint of sarcasm, since he often warns against this attitude elsewhere. "after" (κατά, kata): In this context, it means "according to" or "in the manner of." Paul is not just boasting in general, but specifically in the way others are doing—by worldly standards. "flesh" (σάρξ, sarx): This word often refers to human nature or worldly things, not just physical flesh. Here, it points to boasting based on external, human qualifications rather than spiritual reality.

Question 3

Why 2 Corinthians 11:18 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse helps clarify that Paul is not genuinely promoting self-centered boasting, but is using the style of his opponents to make a point about true and false grounds for confidence. It highlights the contrast between worldly standards ("after the flesh") and the values Paul wants the church to embrace, setting up his argument in the following verses. Understanding this verse in context helps prevent misunderstanding Paul as arrogant or self-promoting; instead, he is using irony to defend his ministry and redirect the Corinthians’ focus.

2 Corinthians 11:18 (KJV)