Devine Scripture

2 Corinthians 11:5

What does 2 Corinthians 11:5 mean?

A plain-English look at 2 Corinthians 11:5 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What 2 Corinthians 11:5 means

Paul asserts he is in no way inferior to the “very chiefest apostles.” This phrase likely reflects either the Twelve or the so-called “super-apostles” his opponents claimed to be. He does not boast out of ego; he corrects a false narrative that paints him as second-rate. His authority and calling are from Christ, and the fruits of his ministry validate that call. He will not accept a status that diminishes the gospel he preaches or the churches birthed through his labor. By defending his standing, he safeguards the Corinthians from treating the true message as lesser simply because its messenger lacks the flashy credentials his rivals parade.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

For I reckon that I am not a whit behind the very chiefest apostles.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

For I suppose I was not a whit behind the very chiefest apostles.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

For I reckon that I am not a whit behind the very chiefest apostles.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

For in my opinion, I am in no way less than the most important of the Apostles.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

for I reckon that I have been nothing behind the very chiefest apostles,

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

For I suppose that I have done nothing less than the great apostles.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

For I reckon that in nothing I am behind those who are in surpassing degree apostles.

Context

After exposing the danger of a different gospel (v.4), Paul addresses a common criticism: that he is inferior. He disputes this (v.5) and immediately adds that, though he is unrefined in speech, he is not lacking in knowledge (v.6). He will then revisit his financial policy in Corinth (vv.7–9), which some used to argue against him, and explain that he chose not to burden them to protect the gospel’s integrity and cut off opportunities for his opponents (vv.10–12).

v.4For if he that cometh preacheth another Jesus, whom we did not preach, or if ye receive a different spirit, which ye did not receive, or a different gospel, which ye did not accept, ye do well to bear with him.

v.5This passage

v.6But though I be rude in speech, yet am I not in knowledge; nay, in every way have we made this manifest unto you in all things.

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.

  • 1 Corinthians 15:10

    But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not found vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.

  • Galatians 2:6

    But from those who were reputed to be somewhat (whatsoever they were, it maketh no matter to me: God accepteth not man’s person)—they, I say, who were of repute imparted nothing to me:

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