2 Corinthians 3:1
Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you?
Original Language Analysis
πάλιν
again
G3825
πάλιν
again
Strong's:
G3825
Word #:
2 of 17
(adverbially) anew, i.e., (of place) back, (of time) once more, or (conjunctionally) furthermore or on the other hand
ἑαυτοὺς
ourselves
G1438
ἑαυτοὺς
ourselves
Strong's:
G1438
Word #:
3 of 17
(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc
συνιστάνειν
to commend
G4921
συνιστάνειν
to commend
Strong's:
G4921
Word #:
4 of 17
to set together, i.e., (by implication) to introduce (favorably), or (figuratively) to exhibit; intransitively, to stand near, or (figuratively) to co
μὴ
G3361
μὴ
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
6 of 17
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
χρῄζομεν
or need we
G5535
χρῄζομεν
or need we
Strong's:
G5535
Word #:
7 of 17
to make (i.e., have) necessity, i.e., be in want of
ὥς
as
G5613
ὥς
as
Strong's:
G5613
Word #:
8 of 17
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
συστατικῶν
letters of commendation
G4956
συστατικῶν
letters of commendation
Strong's:
G4956
Word #:
10 of 17
introductory, i.e., recommendatory
πρὸς
to
G4314
πρὸς
to
Strong's:
G4314
Word #:
12 of 17
a preposition of direction; forward to, i.e., toward (with the genitive case, the side of, i.e., pertaining to; with the dative case, by the side of,
Cross References
Acts 18:27And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace:2 Corinthians 5:12For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart.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.2 Corinthians 12:11I 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.1 Corinthians 16:3And when I come, whomsoever ye shall approve by your letters, them will I send to bring your liberality unto Jerusalem.1 Corinthians 3:10According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon.1 Corinthians 4:15For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel.1 Corinthians 10:33Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.2 Corinthians 2:17For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.2 Corinthians 12:19Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you? we speak before God in Christ: but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying.
Historical Context
Letters of recommendation (epistolai systatikai) were essential in the ancient world for establishing credibility, especially for traveling teachers, philosophers, and merchants. Without modern identification systems, such letters from respected authorities authenticated one's identity and mission. The early church adopted this practice (Acts 18:27; Romans 16:1), but false teachers exploited it to gain entry into congregations. Paul wrote 2 Corinthians around 55-56 AD from Macedonia after a "painful visit" to Corinth, defending his ministry against opponents who questioned his apostolic credentials.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you rely more on external credentials and human approval, or on the evidence of God's transforming work in your life?
- How might Paul's rejection of self-commendation challenge our culture of personal branding and self-promotion?
- In what ways are you a "living letter" that authenticates the gospel to those around you?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you? Paul opens with a rhetorical question addressing accusations that he was self-promoting. The Greek synistaō (συνιστάω, "to commend" or "recommend") was used in the first-century world for formal letters of introduction carried by travelers—a common practice in Greco-Roman society where identity verification was crucial. False apostles infiltrating Corinth likely carried such credentials, while Paul's relationship with the Corinthians needed no external validation.
Paul's question is ironic: epistles of commendation to you would be absurd, since the Corinthians themselves were his living recommendation. The term epistolē (ἐπιστολή, "letter") echoes throughout verses 1-3, establishing the contrast between external written credentials and internal spiritual transformation. Paul's apostolic authority rested not on human endorsement but on the Spirit's work through his ministry—the converted Corinthians themselves were proof of his divine commission (1 Corinthians 9:2).