2 Corinthians 10:18
For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.
Original Language Analysis
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 13
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἑαυτὸν
himself
G1438
ἑαυτὸν
himself
Strong's:
G1438
Word #:
4 of 13
(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc
συνίστησιν
commendeth
G4921
συνίστησιν
commendeth
Strong's:
G4921
Word #:
5 of 13
to set together, i.e., (by implication) to introduce (favorably), or (figuratively) to exhibit; intransitively, to stand near, or (figuratively) to co
ἐκεῖνός
he
G1565
ἐκεῖνός
he
Strong's:
G1565
Word #:
6 of 13
that one (or (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed
δόκιμος
approved
G1384
δόκιμος
approved
Strong's:
G1384
Word #:
8 of 13
properly, acceptable (current after assayal), i.e., approved
ἀλλ'
but
G235
ἀλλ'
but
Strong's:
G235
Word #:
9 of 13
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
ὃν
whom
G3739
ὃν
whom
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
10 of 13
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
11 of 13
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Luke 16:15And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.Proverbs 21:2Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts.Romans 2:29But he is a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God.1 Corinthians 4:5Therefore 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.2 Corinthians 10:12For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.John 12:43For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.Proverbs 27:2Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips.Romans 14:18For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men.2 Corinthians 13:7Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appear approved, but that ye should do that which is honest, though we be as reprobates.1 Peter 1:7That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:
Historical Context
Letters of recommendation were standard in the ancient world, establishing one's credentials and character. Paul's opponents likely brought impressive letters from Jerusalem or other churches. Paul refuses this game: God's commendation through gospel fruit matters, not human endorsements. The Jerusalem apostles recognized Paul's calling (Gal 2:7-9)—he needed no other credential.
Questions for Reflection
- What human commendation are you seeking—praise, credentials, titles, recognition—that distracts from pursuing God's approval alone?
- How does God's commendation manifest in ministry—and how can you recognize counterfeit ministry that lacks divine approval despite human impressiveness?
- What does it reveal about your heart when you're more concerned with others' opinions than with God's evaluation of your faithfulness?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth (οὐ γὰρ ὁ ἑαυτὸν συνιστάνων, ἐκεῖνός ἐστιν δόκιμος, ἀλλ' ὃν ὁ κύριος συνίστησιν)—Synistanōn (συνιστάνων, "commending") ties back to the self-commendation throughout the chapter (vv. 12, 13, 18). Dokimos (δόκιμος, "approved/tested") denotes what passes scrutiny—genuine versus counterfeit. Self-commendation proves nothing; only divine approval validates ministry.
Whom the Lord commendeth (ὃν ὁ κύριος συνίστησιν)—Christ's commendation manifests through effective gospel ministry, transformed lives, Spirit-empowered preaching, and Christlike character. Paul's "letters of recommendation" are the converted Corinthians themselves (3:2-3). Divine approval doesn't require human credentials—God's work speaks for itself. This principle will govern chapters 11-12: Paul's sufferings, visions, and weakness all demonstrate God's approving power, not human impressiveness.