What does 2 Corinthians 11:18 mean?

Explanation

The verse 2 Corinthians 11:18 belongs to a section where the Apostle Paul is addressing the issue of boasting among the Corinthians.

He is confronting the problem of false apostles who took pride in their external, human achievements and qualifications (the flesh) to establish their credibility and influence within the church.

Here, Paul is using irony or sarcasm to make a point.

He states that if others are proud of worldly things, then he, too, will boast, though he is actually criticizing the act of boasting itself.

Paul's statement sets the stage for him to launch into a kind of 'foolish' boasting that actually serves to highlight his weaknesses and sufferings for Christ rather than conventional achievements.

Historical Context

The historical context of 2 Corinthians 11:18 is within the setting of the early Christian church in Corinth around 55-57 AD.

The Corinthian church was a diverse community with various social, cultural, and religious influences.

There were issues of division, immorality, and challenges to Paul's authority as an apostle.

The letter addresses concerns that arose due to the influence of so-called "super apostles," people who were preaching a different Jesus or a different gospel and who boasted about their credentials to gain authority over the church members.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse reveals a facet of Paul's thought on boasting in relation to Christian leadership and ministry.

In contrast to the false apostles who boast in their fleshly achievements, Paul later makes the argument that true boasting should be in one's weaknesses, as they reveal God's grace and power (2 Corinthians 12:9).

This teaching challenges the worldly understanding of power and achievement, insisting that in God's economy, human weakness is the occasion for divine strength.

Practical Applications

Practically speaking, this verse can be applied to everyday life by encouraging individuals to check their motives for boasting and to be wary of placing value on appearances or societal status.

In a modern context, this could relate to the way people present themselves on social media, in their professions, or in personal relationships.

The invitation is to find value not in external accolades but in humility and service to others, which is a reflection of Jesus Christ's own life and teaching.

Cross-References

• 2 Corinthians 12:9 - "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness."
• Galatians 6:14 - "But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world."
• Philippians 3:3-4 - "For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the key term in this verse is "κατὰ σάρκα" (kata sarka), which is translated as "after the flesh." The term "σάρκα" (sarka or flesh) refers to the human nature or worldly status and accomplishments, as opposed to spiritual or divine credentials.

When Paul uses this term, he is typically drawing a contrast between human and divine values, often critiquing the former.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient Roman culture, as in many ancient societies, status, power, and public honor were highly valued.

Paul's stance on boasting would have been countercultural, as Roman society often celebrated achievements and lineage.

Comparatively, within Judaism, there was also an emphasis on lineage and adherence to the Law.

Paul, a Jew himself, reinterprets these values in light of his new faith in Christ, prioritizing spiritual rather than fleshly boasting.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the idea of boasting in relation to human psychology can be tied to self-esteem and social status. Modern psychology examines how individuals compare themselves with others and the impact this has on their self-perception.

Additionally, neuroscience explores the brain mechanisms involved in self-reflection and social evaluation.

However, this verse is not directly related to scientific claims but addresses human behavior and values from a moral and spiritual standpoint.

Commentaries

Commentaries on 2 Corinthians 11:18 often highlight Paul's use of irony and the setup for his argument against false boasting.

Scholars such as John Calvin, Matthew Henry, and more contemporary commentators agree on the countercultural nature of Paul's argumentation.

They note that Paul is prepping to boast in a way that upends conventional values, as his 'boasting' will focus on his sufferings and weaknesses, which he considers marks of his apostleship.

Commentators also emphasize the dangers of false teachers who use external appearances or achievements to validate their ministry rather than their faithfulness to the gospel and service to others.