2 Corinthians 11:18 (KJV)

What does 2 Corinthians 11:18 mean?

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.

The Greek behind 2 Corinthians 11:18

• "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.

Why 2 Corinthians 11:18 matters

• 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.