Why is boasting avoided according to 2 Corinthians 12:6? The Passage in Focus “Even if I wanted to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be speaking the truth. But I refrain, so no one will credit me with more than he sees in me or hears from me.” (2 Corinthians 12:6) Why Paul Steers Clear of Boasting • Boasting distorts reality—people might credit him “with more than he sees in me or hears from me,” shifting glory from Christ to Paul. • True spiritual authority rests not in personal credentials but in God’s power displayed through weakness (cf. 2 Corinthians 12:9). • Avoiding self-exaltation guards Paul from the folly of pride (Proverbs 16:18) and keeps the focus on the gospel, not the messenger (1 Corinthians 2:1-5). • Silencing boastful words allows others to judge him only by observable fruit, preventing misunderstandings or misplaced trust (Matthew 7:16-20). Boasting vs. Christ-Centered Humility in Other Scriptures • Jeremiah 9:23-24—“Let not the wise man boast of his wisdom… but let him who boasts boast in this: that he understands and knows Me.” • Galatians 6:14—Paul’s single ground for boasting is “the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.” • Proverbs 27:2—“Let another praise you, and not your own mouth.” • Philippians 3:3—Believers “boast in Christ Jesus and put no confidence in the flesh.” • James 4:6—“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Humility invites grace; boasting forfeits it. Practical Takeaways for Us Today • Measure spiritual impact by Christ’s work through us, not our résumé. • Let humility guard against exaggerating gifts or experiences. • Redirect compliments to the Lord, keeping Him central. • Seek validation from God’s assessment, not people’s applause. |
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