How can we avoid boasting as described in 2 Corinthians 11:18? Setting the Stage “Since many are boasting according to the flesh, I too will boast.” (2 Corinthians 11:18) Paul’s words come in a section where he reluctantly adopts the language of his critics to expose the emptiness of their self-promotion. He is not endorsing fleshly boasting; he is exposing it to safeguard the church. Understanding Paul’s Concern • False teachers elevated themselves by pedigree, eloquence, and achievements. • The Corinthians were tempted to admire this worldly success. • Paul “boasts” only to reveal the folly of measuring ministry by human standards (vv. 19-30). Identifying Modern Forms of Boasting • Résumé recitals: spotlighting titles, followers, or platforms. • Humble-brags: sharing accomplishments under the guise of prayer requests or “updates.” • Spiritual one-upmanship: emphasizing visions, gifts, or experiences to look superior. Practical Steps to Guard Our Hearts 1. Fix our standard of worth. – 2 Corinthians 10:17: “But, ‘Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.’” – Regularly rehearse that Christ’s approval outweighs human applause. 2. Redirect praise. – Proverbs 27:2: “Let another praise you, and not your own mouth.” – When commended, thank the person briefly, then celebrate what God did. 3. Cultivate anonymity when possible. • Serve behind the scenes. • Give without your left hand knowing what the right is doing (Matthew 6:3-4). 4. Remember the source. – 1 Corinthians 4:7: “What do you have that you did not receive?” – Acknowledge every talent, opportunity, and result as a gift. 5. Practice deliberate humility. – James 4:6: “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” – Speak less of self, more of Christ and others. Anchoring Our Identity in Christ • Galatians 6:14: “May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.” • Christ’s cross levels the field: all equally needy, all equally loved. • Our identity is secure, so self-advertisement loses its pull. Living the Cross-Shaped Life • Philippians 2:5-8: adopt the mindset of Christ, who “emptied Himself.” • Use influence to lift others, not ourselves. • Celebrate unseen faithfulness over visible success (Matthew 25:21). Keeping our eyes on the cross and our hearts tuned to grace, we silence the urge to boast “according to the flesh” and learn to “boast in the Lord” alone. |
    |