2 Corinthians 11:18
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Corinthians 11:18
18 Seeing that many glory after the flesh, I will glory also.
Chapter Context
2 Corinthians 11 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of faith, redemption, truth. 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 addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. 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 11:18
18 Seeing that many glory after the flesh, I will glory also.
Analysis
Seeing that many glory after the flesh, I will glory also. Paul's logic: epei polloi kauchaōntai kata sarka (ἐπεὶ πολλοὶ καυχῶνται κατὰ σάρκα, 'since many boast according to flesh'), kagō kauchēsomai (κἀγὼ καυχήσομαι, 'I also will boast'). Kata sarka (κατὰ σάρκα, 'according to flesh') means by worldly standards—ancestry, credentials, accomplishments, strength.
The concessive strategy is clear: if you value fleshly boasting, I can play that game. But Paul's coming boast will be ironic—he'll 'boast' of beatings, shipwrecks, stoning, hunger, nakedness, and weakness (vv. 23-33). This inverts kata sarka boasting by presenting sufferings as credentials. The false apostles boast of strength; Paul will boast of weakness. Both use the form of boasting; the content is radically different.
The simple future kauchēsomai (καυχήσομαι, 'I will boast') is emphatic—Paul is committed to this ironic strategy. He will meet his opponents on their chosen battlefield (boasting) but fight by different rules (boasting in weakness rather than strength). This exposes the foolishness of worldly values while defending his apostolic authority.
Historical Context
Boasting 'according to flesh' was common in ancient self-commendation letters (periautologia). Politicians, philosophers, and sophists cataloged their accomplishments, ancestry, education, and achievements. The 'super-apostles' likely boasted of Jewish heritage, visions, rhetorical skill, and spiritual experiences. Paul will catalog the opposite—his sufferings for Christ.
Reflection
- What would 'boasting according to flesh' look like in contemporary Christianity—credentials, platforms, influence, numbers?
- How can we adopt worldly forms (like Paul adopting boasting) while subverting worldly content and values?
- In what ways might suffering, weakness, and persecution actually be better credentials for Christian ministry than success and recognition?