2 Corinthians 11:1
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Corinthians 11:1
1 Would to God ye could bear with me a little in my folly: and indeed bear with me.
Chapter Context
2 Corinthians 11 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of obedience, discipleship, fellowship. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 55-56 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Paul defended his apostleship against challenges in a culture valuing rhetorical prowess.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-33: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it reveals key aspects of God's character through divine actions and declarations. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 2 Corinthians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
2 Corinthians 11:1
1 Would to God ye could bear with me a little in my folly: and indeed bear with me.
Analysis
Would to God ye could bear with me a little in my folly: and indeed bear with me. Paul introduces the 'fool's speech' (aphrosyne, ἀφροσύνη) that will dominate chapters 11-12. The Greek verb anechesthe (ἀνέχεσθε, 'bear with') appears twice—first as wish, then as assertion. Paul must adopt his opponents' foolish boasting strategy to expose its folly.
This ironic request frames what follows: Paul will 'boast' like the false apostles, but his boasting will subvert their entire value system by cataloging weaknesses rather than strengths, sufferings rather than triumphs. The repetition emphasizes both reluctance (he wishes they would tolerate this) and necessity (they must endure it). Paul's self-description as speaking in 'folly' is itself wise—worldly boasting is foolishness, yet he must temporarily adopt it to defend the gospel.
The appeal 'would to God' (ophelon, ὄφελον) expresses strong desire bordering on prayer. Paul's pastoral heart shows through—he hates boasting but loves the Corinthians enough to engage in it for their sake. His self-conscious embarrassment at having to defend himself contrasts sharply with the false apostles' shameless self-promotion.
Historical Context
Written around AD 56-57 from Macedonia after Paul's 'painful visit' to Corinth and severe letter. False apostles called 'super-apostles' (11:5) had infiltrated the church, attacking Paul's credentials, demanding financial support, and promoting triumphalistic ministry that valued eloquence, visions, and worldly impressiveness over cruciform weakness.
Reflection
- When have you had to defend yourself or the gospel in ways that felt uncomfortable or foolish by worldly standards?
- How does Paul's reluctant, self-conscious boasting differ from the confident self-promotion common in modern ministry and leadership?
- What would it look like to adopt Paul's ironic strategy today—boasting in weakness to expose the folly of boasting in strength?
Cross-References
- References God: 2 Corinthians 5:13, 1 Corinthians 1:21
- Parallel theme: 2 Corinthians 11:4, 11:19, 11:21