How can we apply Paul's example of boasting in our own faith communities? Setting the scene “For if I have indeed boasted to him about you, I have not been put to shame. But just as everything we said to you was true, so our boasting about you to Titus has proved to be true as well.” (2 Corinthians 7:14) Why Paul could boast with confidence • He had firsthand evidence of genuine repentance and obedience in the Corinthian church (2 Corinthians 7:9-11). • His confidence was anchored in Christ’s transformative work, not in human achievement (2 Colossians 3:5). • He viewed the Corinthians as living proof of his truthful ministry (2 Corinthians 6:3-10). Foundations for healthy boasting today • Boast in God’s grace at work in people, not in personalities or programs (1 Colossians 1:31; 2 Corinthians 10:17). • Base every commendation on observable fruit—repentance, love, stewardship, endurance (Matthew 7:17-18; Galatians 5:22-23). • Speak from personal relationship, the way Paul knew the Corinthians and Titus knew them (2 Corinthians 7:13). Practical ways to apply Paul’s example • Highlight testimonies of transformation—share clear stories of salvation, reconciliation, and restored families. • Celebrate sacrificial service—name volunteers and ministries that quietly bless the body (Philippians 2:29-30). • Affirm faithful perseverance—publicly thank members who endure trials with unwavering trust (James 1:2-4). • Commend generosity—report how gifts advance missions, echoing Paul’s praise of Macedonian giving (2 Corinthians 8:1-5). • Encourage leaders—let elders, teachers, and deacons hear specific ways their labor “is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Colossians 15:58). • Share outward impact—boast about doors God opens through evangelism and mercy ministries (Colossians 4:3). Guardrails that keep boasting God-honoring • Keep Christ central: every commendation should end with gratitude to Him (Ephesians 3:20-21). • Stay truthful: avoid exaggeration; our words must withstand scrutiny, as Paul’s did with Titus (2 Corinthians 7:14-15). • Remain humble: recognize that “we have this treasure in jars of clay” (2 Colossians 4:7). • Seek edification: if it does not build up the listener’s faith, save it for private conversation (Ephesians 4:29). • Guard unity: boasting that creates factions repeats Corinth’s early error (1 Colossians 3:3-7). Fruit we can expect when we boast like Paul • Greater courage in believers who see God’s power on display (Philippians 1:14). • Deepened bonds of affection, just as Titus loved the Corinthians more after hearing Paul’s report (2 Corinthians 7:15). • Renewed zeal for holiness because grace becomes tangible, not theoretical (Titus 2:11-14). • Expanded praise to God as outsiders glorify Him for the authenticity they witness (1 Peter 2:12). |
    |