How does this verse connect with Proverbs 27:2 on letting others praise you? Setting the Scene in Corinth 2 Corinthians 7:14: “For if I have 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 to Titus has proved to be true as well.” • Paul had spoken highly of the Corinthian believers to Titus. • His words were confirmed when Titus witnessed their genuine repentance and zeal. • Paul’s “boast” was not self-promotion; it was commendation of others, rooted in truth. Echoes of Proverbs 27:2 Proverbs 27:2: “Let another praise you, and not your own mouth; a stranger, and not your own lips.” • The proverb warns against self-praise; genuine honor should come from someone else. • In Corinth, the believers did not trumpet their own virtues. Paul, an external voice, highlighted their faithfulness. • Titus, a second independent witness, verified Paul’s testimony—fulfilling the proverb’s call for praise from “another” and even “a stranger.” Keys to God-Honoring Praise • Truth-based: Paul’s commendation was “proved to be true.” Flattery or exaggeration violates Scripture’s standard. • Others-focused: Praise flowed from Paul to the church, not from the church to itself. • Humble posture: The Corinthians received affirmation without self-exaltation, embodying Proverbs 27:2. • God-glorifying: Their transformed lives ultimately magnified the Lord, not human achievement (cf. 2 Corinthians 10:17). Supporting Scriptures • 2 Corinthians 10:17: “But, ‘Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.’ ” • Jeremiah 9:23-24: “Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom… but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows Me.” • Philippians 2:3: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves.” • Proverbs 25:27: “It is not good to eat too much honey, nor to search out one’s own glory.” Living It Out Today • Allow character, not self-promotion, to speak; let trustworthy believers acknowledge God’s work in you. • When you see faithfulness in others, affirm it—as Paul did—so they receive encouragement without self-praise. • Measure every commendation against Scripture: is it truthful, humble, and ultimately pointing to the Lord? |
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