Devine Scripture

2 Corinthians 11:30

What does 2 Corinthians 11:30 mean?

A plain-English look at 2 Corinthians 11:30 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What 2 Corinthians 11:30 means

Paul draws the conclusion: if boasting is necessary, he will boast in matters that display his weakness. This is the great reversal of values. Rather than magnifying achievements, he points to the places where he is small, vulnerable, and dependent—because there God’s power is most evident. Boasting in weakness is not self-deprecation for show; it is a theological stance that honors Christ. The cross-shaped pattern of ministry delights to see strength perfected in frailty. Paul thus turns the boasting game on its head, directing attention away from himself and toward the grace that sustained him through every trial he has named.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things that concern my weakness.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things that concern my weakness.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

If I have to take credit to myself, I will do so in the things in which I am feeble.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

if to boast it behoveth <FI>me<Fi> , of the things of my infirmity I will boast;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things that concern my infirmity.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

If it is needful to boast, I will boast in the things which concern my infirmity.

Context

After listing sufferings and pastoral burdens (vv.23–29), Paul states his thesis: he will glory in what reveals his insufficiency and God’s sufficiency. This prepares for the solemn oath in v.31, affirming he speaks truthfully, and for the final anecdote (vv.32–33) that exemplifies weakness—escaping through a window in a basket. The move sets the stage for the next chapter, where visions and revelations will again be counterbalanced by a “thorn,” continuing the theme of God’s strength in human weakness.

v.29Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is caused to stumble, and I burn not?

v.30This passage

v.31The God and Father of the Lord Jesus, he who is blessed for evermore knoweth that I lie not.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • 2 Corinthians 11:16

    I say again, Let no man think me foolish; but ifye do, yet as foolish receive me, that I also may glory a little.

  • Proverbs 27:2

    Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; A stranger, and not thine own lips.

  • 2 Corinthians 12:1

    I must needs glory, though it is not expedient; but I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord.

  • 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.

  • 1 Corinthians 2:3

    And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.

  • Proverbs 25:27

    It is not good to eat much honey; Sofor mento search out their own glory is grievous.

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