2 Corinthians 11:18
What does 2 Corinthians 11:18 mean?
A plain-English look at 2 Corinthians 11:18 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What 2 Corinthians 11:18 means
Since many are boasting “after the flesh”—using worldly standards like lineage, eloquence, and power—Paul will answer in the same arena, though with a twist. He will not parade status symbols but will highlight labors, beatings, dangers, and concern for the churches. By speaking in a familiar key, he gains a hearing among those swayed by appearances. Yet the content will undercut the very values that fleshly boasting celebrates. True Christian leadership is measured not by applause or patronage, but by faithfulness under hardship and love that endures. Paul engages their categories to redefine them in light of the cross and the pattern of Christ’s servants.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Seeing that many glory after the flesh, I will glory also.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Seeing that many glory after the flesh, I will glory also.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Seeing that many glory after the flesh, I will glory also.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Seeing that there are those who take credit to themselves after the flesh, I will do the same.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862since many boast according to the flesh, I also will boast:
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Seeing that many glory according to the flesh, I will glory also.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890Since many boast according to flesh, I also will boast.
Context
This verse states the rationale for Paul’s unusual tactic. He will momentarily play by the rules his rivals set, but only to reveal their emptiness. In vv.19–20, he highlights the Corinthians’ paradoxical tolerance of foolish, domineering teachers. Then, in vv.21–29, he will list his own experiences—ethnic credentials (v.22) and especially sufferings (vv.23–27)—culminating in his daily anxiety for the churches (v.28) and empathetic zeal (v.29). The section moves toward boasting in weakness (v.30).
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- 2 Corinthians 12:11
I am become foolish: ye compelled me; for I ought to have been commended of you: for in nothing was I behind the very chiefest apostles, though I am nothing.
- 2 Corinthians 12:9
And he hath said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my power is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my weaknesses, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
- 2 Corinthians 12:5
On behalf of such a one will I glory: but on mine own behalf I will not glory, save in my weaknesses.
- 2 Corinthians 10:12
For we are not bold to number or compare ourselves with certain of them that commend themselves: but they themselves, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves with themselves, are without understanding.
- Jeremiah 9:23
Thus saith Jehovah, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches;
- 2 Corinthians 11:21
I speak by way of disparagement, as though we had been weak. Yet whereinsoever any is bold (I speak in foolishness), I am bold also.
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