Why does Paul repeat his warning about boasting in 2 Corinthians 11:16? The text itself “Again I say, let no one think that I am foolish. But even if you do, receive me as a fool, so that I too may boast a little.” (2 Corinthians 11:16) Setting the scene • A group of flashy “super-apostles” (11:5) had invaded Corinth, trumpeting credentials and eloquence. • The believers were getting impressed with outward show instead of Christ-centered substance. • Paul has already warned against boasting (10:12-18) and has called such self-promotion “foolish.” Yet the church is still flirting with it, so he repeats himself. Why Paul repeats the warning • To expose the folly of pride – The Corinthians were beginning to equate loud self-advertisement with spiritual authority. Paul’s repetition drives home that this mindset is sheer foolishness (11:19). • To safeguard the church from deception – False apostles “masquerade as servants of righteousness” (11:13-15). Boasting is their bait. Paul reiterates the danger so the flock will not bite. • To model reluctant boasting – He will recount his own sufferings and visions (11:21-33; 12:1-7), but only after stressing twice that boasting is insanity. Repeating the disclaimer keeps the focus on Christ, not Paul. • To anchor the principle: boast only in the Lord – He has already cited Jeremiah 9:24 (2 Corinthians 10:17). By repeating his warning, he underlines that this rule isn’t optional or cultural—it’s the unchanging standard for God’s people. Supporting verses that circle the same theme • 1 Corinthians 1:29-31 – “Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.” • Proverbs 27:2 – “Let another praise you, and not your own mouth.” • Galatians 6:14 – “May I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.” • 2 Corinthians 12:11 – After recounting his visions, Paul says, “I have become a fool, but you drove me to it.” What Paul’s repetition teaches today • Discern leadership by Christ-likeness, not by charisma or résumé. • Measure success by faithfulness and sacrificial service, not by numbers or applause. • When you must speak of your own work, cloak it in humility and point every spotlight back to Jesus. • Keep Jeremiah 9:23-24 on repeat in your heart: “Let not the wise boast of their wisdom… but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows Me.” |
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