But though I be rude in speech, yet not in knowledge; but we have been throughly made manifest among you in all things.

2 CORINTHIANS 11:6KJV
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2 Corinthians 11:6 (KJV)

What does 2 Corinthians 11:6 mean?

2 Corinthians 11:6 means that Paul admits he may not be a polished or impressive speaker, but he is not lacking in true understanding or knowledge. He points out that his life and actions have been completely open and honest among the people he is writing to.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, addressing criticisms about his speaking style compared to other teachers. He acknowledges that some may find his speech "rude" or unrefined, but insists that his knowledge of the gospel is genuine and trustworthy. Paul emphasizes that his conduct and teaching have been transparent, leaving nothing hidden from the Corinthians.

The Greek behind 2 Corinthians 11:6

  • "rude" (ἰδιώτης, idiōtēs): This word often means "untrained" or "unskilled," especially in formal rhetoric or public speaking. Paul uses it to admit he is not a professional orator, which was highly valued in Corinth.
  • "speech" (λόγος, logos): Here, "logos" refers to spoken word or manner of speaking. Paul contrasts his plain speech with the more polished rhetoric of other teachers.
  • "knowledge" (γνῶσις, gnōsis): Paul insists he is not lacking in understanding or insight, even if his speech is plain.
  • "manifest" (φανερόω, phaneroō): This word means "to make clear" or "to reveal." Paul stresses that everything about his ministry has been openly shown to the Corinthians.

Why 2 Corinthians 11:6 matters

  • This verse clears up the idea that spiritual authority depends on impressive speech; Paul insists that true knowledge and honest living matter more than eloquence.
  • Paul’s openness and transparency set a standard for leadership, showing that integrity is more important than style.
  • The verse connects to the wider passage where Paul defends his ministry against critics, highlighting that substance and sincerity outweigh outward skill or appearance.

Where else these words appear

“rude” Greek G2399 · used in 5 verses

  • Acts 4:13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.
  • 1 Corinthians 14:16 Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest?
  • 1 Corinthians 14:23 If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad?

“though” Greek G1499 · used in 21 verses

  • Matthew 26:33 Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended.
  • 1 Corinthians 7:21 Art thou called being a servant? care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use it rather.
  • 2 Corinthians 12:11 I am become a fool in glorying; ye have compelled me: for I ought to have been commended of you: for in nothing am I behind the very chiefest apostles, though I be nothing.

“knowledge” Greek G1108 · used in 28 verses

  • Luke 1:77 To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins,
  • 1 Corinthians 8:11 And through thy knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died?
  • 2 Corinthians 10:5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

“manifest” Greek G5319 · used in 43 verses

  • Mark 4:22 For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad.
  • 1 Corinthians 4:5 Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.
  • Titus 1:3 But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour;