That which I speak, I speak it not after the Lord, but as it were foolishly, in this confidence of boasting.
What does 2 Corinthians 11:17 mean?
It is the duty and practice of Christians to humble themselves, in obedience to the command and example of the Lord; yet prudence must direct in what it is needful to do things which we may do lawfully, even the speaking of what God has wrought for us, and in us, and by us.
Key themes
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Keep this verse inside 2 Corinthians 11:16-17 and alongside a few nearby related passages.
Commentary on 2 Corinthians 11:17
That which I speak - In praise of myself. I speak it not after the Lord - see the note on 1 Corinthians 7:12 . The phrase here may mean either, I do not speak this by inspiration or claiming to be inspired by the Lord; or more probably it may mean, I do not speak this imitating the example of the Lord Jesus or strictly as becomes his follower. He was eminently modest, and never vaunted or boasted. And Paul probably means to say, "I do not in this profess to follow him entirely. I admit that it is a departure from his pure example in this respect.
Context in 2 Corinthians 11
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2 Corinthians 11 belongs to the middle movement of the book, especially the section often described as fool’s speech and weakness. Second Corinthians is Paul’s deepest letter on apostolic suffering, consolation, generosity, reconciliation, and the paradox of strength in weakness. Read this chapter with the wider themes of weakness, ministry, and reconciliation in view so the individual verses keep their proper weight.
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