What is the meaning of 2 Corinthians 11:1? I wish you would bear with me in a little foolishness • Paul begins this section with a warm, almost playful appeal: “I wish you would bear with me in a little foolishness” (2 Corinthians 11:1). • The “foolishness” he speaks of is his upcoming “boasting” about his ministry, something he normally considers unwise (compare 2 Corinthians 10:17–18; 11:16–18). • By labeling it “foolish,” Paul reinforces his humility: – He knows that true commendation comes from the Lord, not self-promotion (Proverbs 27:2; 1 Corinthians 4:7). – Yet, for the Corinthians’ protection, he must refute false apostles; so he reluctantly engages in what sounds like personal boasting (2 Corinthians 11:12–15). • This gentle request also shows pastoral tenderness—he never bulldozes the church but invites their patience as he defends the gospel entrusted to him (1 Thessalonians 2:7-8). Indeed you are bearing with me • Paul quickly adds, “but indeed you are bearing with me,” affirming their present willingness to hear him out. • He appeals to the affection already established: – Earlier they “opened wide” their hearts to him (2 Corinthians 6:11-13). – They had responded well to his earlier letter of correction and expressed renewed zeal (2 Corinthians 7:8-11, 15-16). • By recognizing their ongoing patience, Paul: – Encourages them to continue discerning truth amid competing voices (Acts 20:29-31). – Sets a tone of mutual trust, reminding them they have a history of standing with him (Philippians 4:14-16). • This tenderness guards against defensiveness; instead of scolding, he commends their endurance and invites them to keep partnering for gospel purity (Galatians 4:12-15). summary 2 Corinthians 11:1 captures Paul’s humble strategy: he must defend his ministry against destructive impostors, yet he dislikes self-boasting and calls it “foolishness.” With pastoral warmth he asks the church to tolerate this brief departure from his usual modesty—something they’re already inclined to do. The verse sets the stage for the passionate defense that follows, all to safeguard the believers’ simple, pure devotion to Christ. |
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