What does 2 Corinthians 11:21 mean?

Explanation

2 Corinthians 11:21 seems to convey Paul's defense of his authority and apostolic credentials, which were being challenged by some in the Corinthian church.

Paul refers to unnamed opponents who boast about their qualifications ("whereinsoever any is bold"), and he adopts a tone of irony or sarcasm when he says, "I speak foolishly," indicating that he is about to engage in boasting himself, though he recognizes that boasting is not a wise or spiritually mature behavior.

Paul seems to argue that if others consider themselves bold or confident in their accomplishments and heritage, he can also boast about similar things.

Yet, by saying this, he simultaneously diminishes this sort of boasting as unworthy of true apostleship.

The deeper meaning suggests that Paul is asserting his rightful place as an apostle and highlights the foolishness of judging spiritual leaders based on self-promoting criteria rather than on their faithfulness to Christ and the Gospel.

Historical Context

The apostle Paul wrote 2 Corinthians as a response to various issues in the early Christian community in Corinth.

Around 55-57 AD, during Paul's third missionary journey, he addressed controversies that arose from false apostles who questioned his authority and his suffering, which they deemed as a sign of weakness.

These false apostles apparently boasted about their strengths and credentials to win over the Corinthians.

Paul's response reflects the challenges of establishing authority and divinely-sanctioned leadership in the early church.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, 2 Corinthians 11:21 raises issues about how believers should view spiritual authority. In Paul's view, true apostleship is associated with serving Christ rather than self-promotion.

This verse can also be linked with the theology of 'strength in weakness,' a common Pauline theme where true strength is found in vulnerability and reliance on God.

Different theological viewpoints might focus on the legitimacy of apostolic succession, the role of suffering in a leader's life, and the nature of boasting within Christian ethics.

For instance, Protestant theology often emphasizes the priesthood of all believers, suggesting a more egalitarian approach to spiritual authority than might be found in other Christian traditions.

Practical Applications

Practically, this verse challenges modern readers to consider what they value in their leaders and in themselves. It promotes humility over boasting, encourages evaluating leaders by their commitment to Christ, and discourages judging by worldly standards of power and success.

In daily life, individuals might reflect on their motives for sharing achievements.

Are they seeking to glorify God or to elevate themselves? Additionally, the verse promotes a culture where weakness can be understood as a context for experiencing God's strength, rather than as an absolute disadvantage.

Cross-References

• 2 Corinthians 10:17-18: "But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth."
• 2 Corinthians 12:9-10: "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.

Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me."

• Philippians 3:4-6: "Though I might also have confidence in the flesh.

If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more: ..."

• 1 Corinthians 1:27-29: "But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; ..."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, key words such as "ασθενήσαντες" (asthenēsantes) translated as "been weak" and "θαρρεῖταί" (tharreitai) meaning "is bold" or "dares" have nuanced meanings.

"Asthenēsantes" conveys not only weakness but also hardship or suffering, and "tharreitai" indicates a confidence that might be understood as daring or being overly bold.

The phrase "Ἀφρόνως λέγω" (Aphronōs legō) is "I speak foolishly," highlighting Paul's reluctance to boast, as "aphronōs" denotes a lack of wisdom or sense.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Paul's disdain for boasting finds parallels in various wisdom traditions where humility is considered a virtue.

In Judaism, modesty is a key value, reinforced by texts such as Proverbs 27:2, which advises letting another praise you, not your own mouth.

In Greco-Roman culture, some philosophical schools, like the Stoics, emphasized self-control and proper social conduct over ostentatious display of achievement.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern psychology and social science might explore this verse through the lens of self-esteem and the social dynamics of leadership.

While Paul talks about boasting from a spiritual perspective, researchers today investigate how perceived confidence and humility affect leadership effectiveness and credibility.

It could be interesting to compare Paul's approach with contemporary theories on the psychology of influence and persuasion.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and commentators approach this verse in light of the larger themes explored in 2 Corinthians.

F.F.

Bruce points out that Paul engaged in "foolish" boasting only to meet the Corinthians on their own ground.

John Stott emphasizes Paul's reluctant boasting, suggesting that taking pride in one's spiritual pedigree is out of place for a Christian leader.

Others, like N.T.

Wright, have observed that Paul's willingness to boast in a foolish manner highlights the deep tension he felt in having to justify his apostolic ministry in ways that went against the Gospel's values.