Understanding 2 Corinthians 11:18

Bible Verse: 2 Corinthians 11:18 - "Seeing that many glory after the flesh, I will glory also."

Summary of 2 Corinthians 11:18

In this verse, the Apostle Paul addresses the concept of boasting and how many are prone to glory in their worldly achievements and attributes, which he contrasts with the spiritual boasting he advocates. This focus on worldly glory serves to highlight the human tendency to value superficial accomplishments rather than spiritual integrity. Paul, in a provocative manner, states that if others boast in their fleshly attributes, he also will partake in this kind of boasting, not because he values it, but to show the folly of such pride.

Commentary Insights

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes that boasting after the flesh is a sign of low spiritual understanding. He observes that many were enamored with physical attributes, lineage, or social status when they should have been glorifying the work of Christ. He notes the absurdity of this approach and argues that spiritual achievements and the grace of God should be the source of true glory.

Albert Barnes' Notes

Albert Barnes points out that Paul uses irony by saying he will also boast, drawing attention to the attitudes of those who glory in their flesh. He states that the servants of the Lord should take pride in the endeavors that elevate Christ rather than themselves. Barnes stresses the importance of recognizing the distinction between righteous pride and boastfulness centered on fleshly accomplishments.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke notes that Paul’s choice to follow the same path of boasting is a rhetorical strategy that serves to criticize those who engage in such actions. He discusses the idea that all human accomplishments are irrelevant in the face of spiritual truth and the saving grace of Christ. Clarke underscores that believers are called to boast in the Lord, as elaborated in Jeremiah 9:24.

Connections to Other Bible Verses

2 Corinthians 11:18 can be linked to various other scriptures that emphasize similar themes:

• Jeremiah 9:24: "But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me." - Encourages boasting in spiritual knowledge rather than worldly achievements.
• Galatians 6:14: "But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ." - Further underscores that pride should only be in Christ’s work.
• Philippians 3:3: "For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh." - A call to abandon fleshly confidence.
• 1 Corinthians 1:31: "That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord." - A direct link to the concept of boasting in the Lord.
• 1 John 2:16: "For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world." - Condemns worldly pride and living by the flesh.
• Romans 3:27: "Where is boasting then? It is excluded." - Reinforces the idea that boasting has no place in the Christian life.
• 2 Corinthians 10:12: "For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves." - Highlights the futility of comparing oneself with others.

Thematic Links and Comparative Analysis

The thematic connections spurred by 2 Corinthians 11:18 highlight the biblical perspective on pride and boasting. Paul’s statement opens a dialogue about the nature of true boasting, shifting focus from achievements in the flesh to those rooted in faith and the transformative work of Christ. This verse serves as a reminder that believers are called to recognize the difference between earthly accolades and spiritual accomplishments. The idea evokes a deeper comparative analysis of Pauline epistles and other scriptural texts, affirming a cohesive biblical narrative that addresses pride and humility.

Tools for Bible Cross-Referencing

The study of 2 Corinthians 11:18 may be enhanced through various cross-referencing tools that aid in identifying scriptural connections:

• Bible Concordance: A valuable resource for finding related verses and exploring themes across Scriptures.
• Cross-Reference Guides: These guides help readers locate verses that complement or contrast one another.
• Bible Cross-Reference System: Facilitates thematic studies and deep understanding of biblical principles.
• Comprehensive Materials: Resources that offer extensive cross-reference links across the Bible.
• Cross-Referenced Themes: Bible studies focusing on connected themes to understand the overarching biblical narrative.