2 Corinthians 11:17

Authorized King James Version

That which I speak, I speak it not after the Lord, but as it were foolishly, in this confidence of boasting.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
ὃ
G3739
That which
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
#2
λαλῶ
G2980
I speak
to talk, i.e., utter words
#3
οὐ
G3756
it not
the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not
#4
λαλῶ
G2980
I speak
to talk, i.e., utter words
#5
κατὰ
G2596
after
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
#6
κύριον
G2962
the Lord
supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)
#7
ἀλλ'
G235
but
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
#8
ὡς
G5613
as
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#9
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#10
ἀφροσύνῃ
G877
senselessness, i.e., (euphemistically) egotism; (morally) recklessness
#11
ἐν
G1722
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#12
ταύτῃ
G3778
the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)
#13
τῇ
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#14
ὑποστάσει
G5287
confidence
a setting under (support), i.e., (figuratively) concretely, essence, or abstractly, assurance (objectively or subjectively)
#15
τῆς
G3588
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#16
καυχήσεως
G2746
of boasting
boasting (properly, the act; by implication, the object), in a good or a bad sense

Analysis

Within the broader context of 2 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 2 Corinthians.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 2 Corinthians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection