For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me.

2 CORINTHIANS 12:6KJV
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2 Corinthians 12:6 (KJV)

What does 2 Corinthians 12:6 mean?

2 Corinthians 12:6 means that Paul, even though he could boast about himself, chooses not to, so that people will judge him only by what they see and hear from him, not by any exaggerated claims. Paul wants to be honest and avoid giving anyone a reason to think more highly of him than is true.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, explaining why he does not brag about his spiritual experiences or accomplishments. He says he could "glory" (boast), but he restrains himself because he wants people to have a realistic view of him based on his actions and words. This verse comes in the context of Paul defending his ministry and explaining his humility.

The Greek behind 2 Corinthians 12:6

  • καυχάομαι (kaucháomai, "glory" or "boast"): This word often refers to taking pride in something or speaking highly of oneself. Paul uses it here to show he has reasons he could boast, but chooses not to.
  • ἄφρων (aphrōn, "fool"): Paul says he does not want to be a "fool," meaning someone who brags without reason or exaggerates. He is careful to avoid self-promotion.
  • ὑπερ (hyper, "above"): Paul is concerned that no one should think of him "above" what is true. The Greek here stresses not wanting to be seen as more important or impressive than he really is.

Why 2 Corinthians 12:6 matters

  • This verse clears up the idea that spiritual leaders should not exaggerate their experiences or abilities; Paul models honesty and humility.
  • It shows Paul's concern for integrity, wanting the Corinthians to judge him by what they can actually observe, not by stories or rumors.
  • The verse connects to the wider passage where Paul discusses his "thorn in the flesh" and his dependence on God's grace, emphasizing that true strength comes from honesty and humility, not self-promotion.

Where else these words appear

“forbear” Greek G5339 · used in 9 verses

  • Acts 20:29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
  • Romans 11:21 For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee.
  • 2 Corinthians 13:2 I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second time; and being absent now I write to them which heretofore have sinned, and to all other, that, if I come again, I will not spare:

“fool” Greek G878 · used in 10 verses

  • Luke 11:40 Ye fools, did not he that made that which is without make that which is within also?
  • 1 Corinthians 15:36 Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die:
  • 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.

“glory” Greek G2744 · used in 33 verses

  • Romans 2:17 Behold, thou art called a Jew, and restest in the law, and makest thy boast of God,
  • 2 Corinthians 7:14 For if I have boasted any thing to him of you, I am not ashamed; but as we spake all things to you in truth, even so our boasting, which I made before Titus, is found a truth.
  • 2 Corinthians 12:1 It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord.

“think” Greek G3049 · used in 40 verses

  • Mark 11:31 And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say, Why then did ye not believe him?
  • Romans 4:10 How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision.
  • 2 Corinthians 3:5 Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God;