2 Corinthians 11:16
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2 Corinthians 11:16
16 I say again, Let no man think me a fool; if otherwise, yet as a fool receive me, that I may boast myself a little.
Chapter Context
2 Corinthians 11 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of wisdom, worship, 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 offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. 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 11:16
16 I say again, Let no man think me a fool; if otherwise, yet as a fool receive me, that I may boast myself a little.
Analysis
I say again, Let no man think me a fool; if otherwise, yet as a fool receive me, that I may boast myself a little. Paul returns to the 'fool's speech' after the digression on false apostles. The repetition palin legō (πάλιν λέγω, 'I say again') echoes verse 1. Mē tis me doxē aphrona einai (μή τίς με δόξῃ ἄφρονα εἶναι, 'let no one think me foolish') acknowledges that worldly boasting is foolishness—but circumstances require it.
Ei de mē ge (εἰ δὲ μή γε, 'if otherwise/but if indeed') introduces a concession: even if you consider my self-defense foolish, as a fool receive me (kan hōs aphrona dexasthe me, κἂν ὡς ἄφρονα δέξασθέ με)—tolerate it because necessity demands it. The purpose clause hina kagō mikron ti kauchēsōmai (ἵνα κἀγὼ μικρόν τι καυχήσωμαι, 'that I also may boast a little') is dripping with irony given the extensive catalog of sufferings to follow.
Paul's self-consciousness about boasting reveals his pastoral sensitivity. He knows he's playing the fool's game, but he must expose the foolishness of worldly boasting by temporarily adopting it. His 'little' boasting will actually be extensive (11:21b-12:10), but it will subvert rather than confirm worldly values by boasting in weakness rather than strength.
Historical Context
Greco-Roman culture valued self-promotion highly. Sophists, politicians, and philosophers boasted of their accomplishments, ancestry, and credentials. The 'super-apostles' adopted this cultural practice. Paul must temporarily enter their arena to expose its foolishness, yet he does so with evident discomfort that marks his difference from them.
Reflection
- When might it be necessary to 'play the fool' and defend yourself or your ministry, even though you find self-promotion distasteful?
- How does Paul's self-conscious discomfort with boasting differ from the confident self-promotion common in modern ministry and leadership?
- In what ways might we need to meet people on their own terms while ultimately subverting their value system?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 2 Corinthians 11:1, 12:6