2 Corinthians 11:21
I speak as concerning reproach, as though we had been weak. Howbeit whereinsoever any is bold, (I speak foolishly,) I am bold also.
Original Language Analysis
κατὰ
as concerning
G2596
κατὰ
as concerning
Strong's:
G2596
Word #:
1 of 18
(prepositionally) down (in place or time), in varied relations (according to the case (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined)
ἀτιμίαν
reproach
G819
ἀτιμίαν
reproach
Strong's:
G819
Word #:
2 of 18
infamy, i.e., (subjectively) comparative indignity, (objectively) disgrace
λέγω
(I speak
G3004
λέγω
(I speak
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
3 of 18
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
ὡς
as
G5613
ὡς
as
Strong's:
G5613
Word #:
4 of 18
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
ὅτι
though
G3754
ὅτι
though
Strong's:
G3754
Word #:
5 of 18
demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because
ᾧ
G3739
ᾧ
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
9 of 18
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
τολμῶ
I am bold
G5111
τολμῶ
I am bold
Strong's:
G5111
Word #:
13 of 18
to venture (objectively or in act; while g2292 is rather subjective or in feeling); by implication, to be courageous
ἀφροσύνῃ
G877
ἀφροσύνῃ
Strong's:
G877
Word #:
15 of 18
senselessness, i.e., (euphemistically) egotism; (morally) recklessness
λέγω
(I speak
G3004
λέγω
(I speak
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
16 of 18
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
Historical Context
Greco-Roman culture associated power with domination, honor with status, and strength with impressiveness. Jesus and Paul subvert these values entirely—the first shall be last, the weak are strong, servants are great. The Corinthians, still thinking worldly, needed this ironic reversal to see clearly.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the world's equation of servanthood with weakness blind people to the strength displayed through Christlike service?
- In what ways might the church today value worldly 'boldness' (domineering leadership, impressive credentials) over gospel boldness (suffering service)?
- When have you been tempted to view your service or sacrifice for Christ as shameful weakness rather than honorable strength?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
I speak as concerning reproach, as though we had been weak. Howbeit whereinsoever any is bold, (I speak foolishly,) I am bold also. Paul's mock shame at being 'weak' continues the irony. Kata atimian legō (κατὰ ἀτιμίαν λέγω, 'I speak according to dishonor/shame') introduces his confession: hōs hoti hēmeis ēsthenēsamen (ὡς ὅτι ἡμεῖς ἠσθενήσαμεν, 'as if we have been weak'). In worldly eyes, Paul's servant ministry without domineering or exploitation was shameful weakness.
Yet Paul reframes this: his 'weakness' is actually strength because it displays Christ's power (12:9-10). The false apostles' bold self-assertion is actually weakness because it relies on human impressiveness. Paul's irony exposes the inversion at the heart of gospel ministry—true strength comes through weakness, true authority through service, true honor through shame.
Howbeit whereinsoever any is bold (ho d' an tis tolma, ὃ δ᾽ ἄν τις τολμᾷ) introduces the actual 'boasting' catalog. With the parenthetical reminder en aphrosynē legō (ἐν ἀφροσύνῃ λέγω, 'I speak in foolishness'), Paul matches the false apostles' boldness. But his boldness will boast of sufferings, not achievements.