2 Corinthians 10:17
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
2 Corinthians 10:17
17 But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.
Chapter Context
2 Corinthians 10 is a apologetic epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of redemption, hope, obedience. 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 13-18: Central message and teachings
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 10:17
17 But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.
Analysis
But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord (ὁ δὲ καυχώμενος ἐν κυρίῳ καυχάσθω)—Paul quotes Jeremiah 9:23-24, the same text cited in 1 Corinthians 1:31. Kauchōmenos (καυχώμενος, "boasting/glorying") is inevitable—humans will boast in something. The question is object: self (wisdom, strength, riches) or God (grace, calling, power). En kyriō (ἐν κυρίῳ, "in the Lord") locates legitimate boasting—not in personal achievements but in what God has accomplished through weak, dependent servants.
This verse anchors all of Paul's defensive "boasting" in chapters 10-12. He will extensively catalog his sufferings, revelations, and apostolic labors—but always to demonstrate God's power perfected in weakness (12:9), never self-commendation. Boasting "in the Lord" means glorying in divine grace that uses foolish, weak, despised instruments to accomplish mighty purposes (1 Cor 1:26-29).
Historical Context
Jeremiah 9:23-24 critiqued Israel's tendency to trust human wisdom, military might, or material wealth instead of knowing Yahweh. Paul applies this prophetic critique to the Corinthian infatuation with eloquent teachers, impressive credentials, and worldly status. True wisdom glories in knowing God through Christ crucified (1 Cor 2:2), not human achievement.
Reflection
- What do you habitually boast in—accomplishments, possessions, relationships, intelligence—revealing where you find your deepest security and identity?
- How does boasting 'in the Lord' differ from religious talk that name-drops God while actually glorying in personal spirituality?
- What would change in your self-presentation if you genuinely boasted only in God's grace rather than personal merit?
Word Studies
- Lord: Κύριος (Kurios) G2962 - Lord, Master
Cross-References
- Glory: Psalms 105:3, Jeremiah 4:2, 1 Corinthians 1:29, 1:31
- Parallel theme: Isaiah 65:16