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2 Corinthians 10:12
Verse
Context
Paul’s Apostolic Authority
11Such people should consider that what we are in our letters when absent, we will be in our actions when present.12We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they show their ignorance.13We, however, will not boast beyond our limits, but only within the field of influence that God has assigned to us—a field that reaches even to you.
Sermons
Warren Wiersbe
Milton Green
Steve Mays
Charles Finney
David Wilkerson
A.B. Simpson
Samuel Logan BrengleSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
We dare not make ourselves, etc. - As if he had said: I dare neither associate with, nor compare myself to, those who are full of self-commendation. Some think this to be an ironical speech. But they, measuring themselves by themselves - They are not sent of God; they are not inspired by his Spirit; therefore they have no rule to think or act by. They are also full of pride and self-conceit; they look within themselves for accomplishments which their self-love will soon find out; for to it real and fictitious are the same. As they dare not compare themselves with the true apostles of Christ, they compare themselves with each other; and, as they have no perfect standard, they can have no excellence; nor can they ever attain true wisdom, which is not to be had from looking at what we are but to what we should be; and if without a directory, what we should be will never appear, and consequently our ignorance must continue. This was the case with these self-conceited false apostles; but ου συνιουσιν, are not wise, Mr. Wakefield contends, is an elegant Graecism signifying they are not aware that they are measuring themselves by themselves, etc.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
"We do not presume (irony) to judge ourselves among, or in comparison with, some of them that commend themselves." The charge falsely brought against him of commending himself (Co2 3:1; Co2 5:12), really holds good of the false teachers. The phrase, "judge ourselves of the number," is drawn from the testing of athletes and senators, the "approved" being set down on the roll [WAHL]. measuring themselves by themselves--"among themselves": to correspond to the previous verb, "judge ourselves among them." Instead of measuring themselves by the public standard, they measure themselves by one made by themselves: they do not compare themselves with others who excel them, but with those like themselves: hence their high self-esteem. The one-eyed is easily king among the blind. are not wise--with all their boasted "wisdom" (Co1 1:19-26), they are anything but "wise."
John Gill Bible Commentary
For we stretch not ourselves beyond our measure,.... They did not go beyond the bounds set them by the purpose and providence of God, by going to Corinth; nor did they boast of things without their measure, when they spoke of their labours, and of the success of their ministrations among them; nor did they assume and arrogate to themselves what did not belong to them, when they claimed an authority over them, and a right of exercising their apostolical office among them: as though we reached not unto you; by right, or according to the will of God, and the measuring line and bounds he drew and fixed for them: for we are come as far as to you also in preaching the Gospel of Christ. The case is clear, it is a plain matter of fact, that they were not only come to other places, where they had preached the Gospel, and planted churches, but as far as to Corinth also, where they came "in, by, or with the Gospel of Christ": not their own, or what was of their own invention, but Christ's; of which he is the author, minister, and subject; they did not come without something with them; they came with the good news and glad tidings of salvation by Christ; they came preaching the Gospel, which was owned for the conversion of many souls, and for the raising a very considerable church; all which was a full proof that they were of right, and not by usurpation, come to them; that they had not thrusted themselves in, where they had no business, and consequently still retained a power over them.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
In these verses observe, I. The apostle refuses to justify himself, or to act by such rules as the false apostles did, Co2 10:12. He plainly intimates that they took a wrong method to commend themselves, in measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, which was not wise. They were pleased, and did pride themselves, in their own attainments, and never considered those who far exceeded them in gifts and graces, in power and authority; and this made them haughty and insolent. Note, If we would compare ourselves with others who excel us, this would be a good method to keep us humble; we should be pleased and thankful for what we have of gifts or graces, but never pride ourselves therein, as if there were none to be compared with us or that did excel us. The apostle would not be of the number of such vain men: let us resolve that we will not make ourselves of that number. II. He fixes a better rule for his conduct, namely, not to boast of things without his measure, which was the measure God had distributed to him, Co2 10:13. His meaning is, either that he would not boast of more gifts or graces, or power and authority, than God had really bestowed on him; or, rather, that he would not act beyond his commission as to persons or things, nor go beyond the line prescribed to him, which he plainly intimates the false apostles did, while they boasted of other men's labors. The apostle's resolution was to keep within his own province, and that compass of ground which God had marked out for him. His commission as an apostle was to preach the gospel every where, especially among the Gentiles, and he was not confined to one place; yet he observed the directions of Providence, and the Holy Spirit, as to the particular places whither he went or where he did abide. III. He acted according to this rule: We stretch not ourselves beyond our measure, Co2 10:14. And, particularly, he acted according to this rule in preaching at Corinth, and in the exercise of his apostolical authority there; for he came thither by divine direction, and there he converted many to Christianity; and, therefore, in boasting of them as his charge, he acted not contrary to his rule, he boasted not of other men's labours, Co2 10:15. IV. He declares his success in observing this rule. His hope was that their faith was increased, and that others beyond them, even in the remoter parts of Achaia, would embrace the gospel also; and in all this he exceeded not his commission, nor acted in another man's line. V. He seems to check himself in this matter, as if he had spoken too much in his own praise. The unjust accusations and reflections of his enemies had made it needful he should justify himself; and the wrong methods they took gave him good occasion to mention the better rule he had observed: yet he is afraid of boasting, or taking any praise to himself, and therefore he mentions two things which ought to be regarded: - 1. He that glorieth should glory in the Lord, Co2 10:17. If we are able to fix good rules for our conduct, or act by them, or have any good success in so doing, the praise and glory of all are owing unto God. Ministers in particular must be careful not to glory in their performances, but must give God the glory of their work, and the success thereof. 2. Not he that commendeth himself is approved, but he whom the Lord commendeth, Co2 10:18. Of all flattery, self-flattery is the worst, and self-applause is seldom any better than self-flattery and self-deceit. At the best, self-commendation is no praise, and it is oftentimes as foolish and vain as it is proud; therefore, instead of praising or commending ourselves, we should strive to approve ourselves to God, and his approbation will be our best commendation.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
10:12 Paul now charges his enemies with a set of false values, since they attached great importance to themselves.
2 Corinthians 10:12
Paul’s Apostolic Authority
11Such people should consider that what we are in our letters when absent, we will be in our actions when present.12We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they show their ignorance.13We, however, will not boast beyond our limits, but only within the field of influence that God has assigned to us—a field that reaches even to you.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Christian Freedom: Branded but Not Bound
By Warren Wiersbe9.2K42:00FreedomMAT 6:1MAT 6:72CO 10:12GAL 6:12GAL 6:17In this sermon, the apostle Paul encourages believers to evaluate their own ministries using the word of God as a mirror. He warns against ministering in a legalistic way and emphasizes the importance of examining one's motives. Paul suggests four questions to ask in evaluating ministry: Is it based on the grace of God? Is the walk aligned with God's principles? Is it ministered by the Spirit of God? And is it focused on the cross of Christ? He emphasizes that the quality of ministry is determined by the heart and urges believers to prioritize a genuine relationship with God over external actions.
Many Going Back to Hell - Part 2
By Milton Green1.3K10:07MAT 6:192CO 10:122TI 3:132PE 1:42PE 2:21In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of repentance and turning away from the nature of Satan. He highlights the need to receive Jesus Christ as our new master and to be led by His Spirit. The preacher also emphasizes the need to put to death the deeds and character of the flesh and Satan in order to be perfected in love and fulfill God's law. He warns against resisting the word of God and hardening our hearts, as it can lead to being unable to be purified and sanctified. The sermon also touches on the dangers of worldly-mindedness and the importance of staying true to the holy commandments.
Give Me More, Give Me More - Part 1
By Steve Mays52834:47Christian LifeEXO 18:21MRK 7:21LUK 12:152CO 10:12JAS 4:1In this sermon, Pastor Steve Mays discusses the issue of coveting and its impact on society. He emphasizes that the greed and covetousness of individuals and nations are causing conflicts and divisions. Pastor Mays highlights the importance of a rediscovery of Jesus Christ and a transformation of the heart to overcome coveting. He also addresses the curse of coveting and the need for a cure, which involves aligning our desires with the things of God rather than worldly possessions.
Caught in the Public Eye
By Charles Finney0True Commitment to GodHypocrisyMAT 23:33JHN 12:432CO 10:122TI 3:12JAS 2:10Charles Finney addresses the dangers of seeking the praise of men over the praise of God, emphasizing that true self-love aligns with God's law, while selfishness leads to hypocrisy. He warns that many professing Christians are motivated by a desire for reputation rather than a genuine commitment to glorifying God, often conforming to public sentiment instead of biblical standards. Finney challenges listeners to examine their hearts and motives, urging them to prioritize God's authority over societal approval. He calls for a radical commitment to Christ, encouraging believers to stand firm in their faith regardless of public opinion. Ultimately, he stresses that true Christianity requires a complete surrender to God's will, regardless of the cost.
Comparing Ourselves to Others
By David Wilkerson0Righteousness in ChristAvoiding Comparisons2CO 10:12David Wilkerson emphasizes the futility of comparing ourselves to others in our spiritual journey, revealing that true righteousness comes only from Jesus Christ. He reflects on his past struggles with feelings of inadequacy when measuring himself against seemingly holy individuals, only to realize that appearances can be deceiving. Wilkerson asserts that all believers receive Christ's righteousness in its fullness by faith, and that we should not gauge our worth by others but by the perfect standard of Christ. He encourages the congregation to embrace their identity in Christ, reminding them that they are accepted and made righteous through Him, regardless of their current struggles. Ultimately, the call is to focus on the unity of faith and the knowledge of Christ rather than on comparisons with others.
God's Measureless Measures
By A.B. Simpson0Faith and TrustDivine Standards2CO 10:12A.B. Simpson emphasizes the contrast between human and divine measures in his sermon 'God's Measureless Measures.' He warns against the folly of measuring ourselves by our own standards or by comparing ourselves to others, urging believers to strive for God's higher calling and to align their lives with His will, word, grace, glory, and the example of Christ. Simpson encourages the congregation to recognize that true fulfillment and strength come from God's abundant resources and to live according to the power that works within them. He concludes by reminding them that their faith should be expansive, allowing them to receive God's immeasurable blessings.
Hindrances to Holiness
By Samuel Logan Brengle0The Nature of SalvationHindrances to HolinessPSA 139:23HOS 4:6JHN 10:102CO 10:122CO 12:9PHP 2:5HEB 3:1HEB 4:2JAS 1:22PE 1:4Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes that God offers a perfect salvation that empowers believers to overcome worldly challenges and live in accordance with His will. He identifies several hindrances to receiving this salvation, including ignorance of its existence, unbelief in God's promises, and the pursuit of the wrong expectations regarding salvation. Brengle encourages believers to seek a deeper understanding of holiness, which is not merely about external conduct but involves a transformation of the heart and character. He concludes that true holiness is attainable through humility and a close relationship with Jesus, who exemplifies the perfect model of a holy life.
Peculiar Perils of Leadership
By J. Oswald Sanders0LeadershipHumilityNUM 11:28PRO 16:5MAT 23:12LUK 10:201CO 3:42CO 10:12GAL 6:3PHP 2:3JAS 4:61PE 5:5J. Oswald Sanders addresses the subtle perils faced by spiritual leaders, emphasizing the dangers of pride, jealousy, popularity, infallibility, and the emotional extremes of elation and depression. He warns that pride can lead to self-congratulation and spiritual blindness, while jealousy can arise from insecurity about one's position. Sanders highlights the importance of humility and the need for leaders to focus on God's glory rather than their own prestige. He also discusses the challenge of balancing the roles of prophet and leader, urging leaders to prioritize their spiritual calling over popularity. Ultimately, he calls for leaders to remain grounded in their faith and reliant on God's grace.
Gather Up the Fragments, That Nothing Be Lost.
By Phoebe Palmer0DEU 8:2PSA 119:105ISA 41:10ISA 55:32CO 10:12Phoebe Palmer preaches about the journey of faith and the struggles of uncertainty and spiritual depression along the way. She reflects on the importance of seeking God's guidance through His word and not comparing one's spiritual journey to others'. Despite moments of doubt and temptation, she emphasizes the need to believe in God's promises and trust in His faithfulness, even when faced with challenges and unanswered questions.
People Pleasers
By Winkie Pratney0MAT 5:20MAT 6:33MAT 7:13MRK 8:38LUK 13:24JHN 5:39ACT 2:372CO 6:172CO 10:12Winkie Pratney preaches about the importance of not being a people-pleaser and the need to prioritize God's standards over the approval of others. He emphasizes the necessity of true faith and obedience to God's Word, even if it means losing the favor of the crowd. Pratney warns against hypocrisy and challenges listeners to examine their motives and actions, urging them to seek the praise of God above all else.
Seven Myths of Repentance (Myth #3, #4, & #5)
By Robert Wurtz II02SA 12:12LUK 12:3JHN 21:232CO 5:172CO 10:121TI 5:20Robert Wurtz II addresses the myths surrounding repentance, debunking the misconceptions that penance equals repentance and that reformation alone signifies true repentance. He emphasizes the importance of genuine repentance leading to a transformation of the heart and a new nature in Christ, rather than mere external improvements or self-imposed discipline. Wurtz also highlights the incompatibility of repentance with self-defense, stressing that true repentance involves acknowledging sin without making excuses, comparisons, or explanations.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
We dare not make ourselves, etc. - As if he had said: I dare neither associate with, nor compare myself to, those who are full of self-commendation. Some think this to be an ironical speech. But they, measuring themselves by themselves - They are not sent of God; they are not inspired by his Spirit; therefore they have no rule to think or act by. They are also full of pride and self-conceit; they look within themselves for accomplishments which their self-love will soon find out; for to it real and fictitious are the same. As they dare not compare themselves with the true apostles of Christ, they compare themselves with each other; and, as they have no perfect standard, they can have no excellence; nor can they ever attain true wisdom, which is not to be had from looking at what we are but to what we should be; and if without a directory, what we should be will never appear, and consequently our ignorance must continue. This was the case with these self-conceited false apostles; but ου συνιουσιν, are not wise, Mr. Wakefield contends, is an elegant Graecism signifying they are not aware that they are measuring themselves by themselves, etc.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
"We do not presume (irony) to judge ourselves among, or in comparison with, some of them that commend themselves." The charge falsely brought against him of commending himself (Co2 3:1; Co2 5:12), really holds good of the false teachers. The phrase, "judge ourselves of the number," is drawn from the testing of athletes and senators, the "approved" being set down on the roll [WAHL]. measuring themselves by themselves--"among themselves": to correspond to the previous verb, "judge ourselves among them." Instead of measuring themselves by the public standard, they measure themselves by one made by themselves: they do not compare themselves with others who excel them, but with those like themselves: hence their high self-esteem. The one-eyed is easily king among the blind. are not wise--with all their boasted "wisdom" (Co1 1:19-26), they are anything but "wise."
John Gill Bible Commentary
For we stretch not ourselves beyond our measure,.... They did not go beyond the bounds set them by the purpose and providence of God, by going to Corinth; nor did they boast of things without their measure, when they spoke of their labours, and of the success of their ministrations among them; nor did they assume and arrogate to themselves what did not belong to them, when they claimed an authority over them, and a right of exercising their apostolical office among them: as though we reached not unto you; by right, or according to the will of God, and the measuring line and bounds he drew and fixed for them: for we are come as far as to you also in preaching the Gospel of Christ. The case is clear, it is a plain matter of fact, that they were not only come to other places, where they had preached the Gospel, and planted churches, but as far as to Corinth also, where they came "in, by, or with the Gospel of Christ": not their own, or what was of their own invention, but Christ's; of which he is the author, minister, and subject; they did not come without something with them; they came with the good news and glad tidings of salvation by Christ; they came preaching the Gospel, which was owned for the conversion of many souls, and for the raising a very considerable church; all which was a full proof that they were of right, and not by usurpation, come to them; that they had not thrusted themselves in, where they had no business, and consequently still retained a power over them.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
In these verses observe, I. The apostle refuses to justify himself, or to act by such rules as the false apostles did, Co2 10:12. He plainly intimates that they took a wrong method to commend themselves, in measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, which was not wise. They were pleased, and did pride themselves, in their own attainments, and never considered those who far exceeded them in gifts and graces, in power and authority; and this made them haughty and insolent. Note, If we would compare ourselves with others who excel us, this would be a good method to keep us humble; we should be pleased and thankful for what we have of gifts or graces, but never pride ourselves therein, as if there were none to be compared with us or that did excel us. The apostle would not be of the number of such vain men: let us resolve that we will not make ourselves of that number. II. He fixes a better rule for his conduct, namely, not to boast of things without his measure, which was the measure God had distributed to him, Co2 10:13. His meaning is, either that he would not boast of more gifts or graces, or power and authority, than God had really bestowed on him; or, rather, that he would not act beyond his commission as to persons or things, nor go beyond the line prescribed to him, which he plainly intimates the false apostles did, while they boasted of other men's labors. The apostle's resolution was to keep within his own province, and that compass of ground which God had marked out for him. His commission as an apostle was to preach the gospel every where, especially among the Gentiles, and he was not confined to one place; yet he observed the directions of Providence, and the Holy Spirit, as to the particular places whither he went or where he did abide. III. He acted according to this rule: We stretch not ourselves beyond our measure, Co2 10:14. And, particularly, he acted according to this rule in preaching at Corinth, and in the exercise of his apostolical authority there; for he came thither by divine direction, and there he converted many to Christianity; and, therefore, in boasting of them as his charge, he acted not contrary to his rule, he boasted not of other men's labours, Co2 10:15. IV. He declares his success in observing this rule. His hope was that their faith was increased, and that others beyond them, even in the remoter parts of Achaia, would embrace the gospel also; and in all this he exceeded not his commission, nor acted in another man's line. V. He seems to check himself in this matter, as if he had spoken too much in his own praise. The unjust accusations and reflections of his enemies had made it needful he should justify himself; and the wrong methods they took gave him good occasion to mention the better rule he had observed: yet he is afraid of boasting, or taking any praise to himself, and therefore he mentions two things which ought to be regarded: - 1. He that glorieth should glory in the Lord, Co2 10:17. If we are able to fix good rules for our conduct, or act by them, or have any good success in so doing, the praise and glory of all are owing unto God. Ministers in particular must be careful not to glory in their performances, but must give God the glory of their work, and the success thereof. 2. Not he that commendeth himself is approved, but he whom the Lord commendeth, Co2 10:18. Of all flattery, self-flattery is the worst, and self-applause is seldom any better than self-flattery and self-deceit. At the best, self-commendation is no praise, and it is oftentimes as foolish and vain as it is proud; therefore, instead of praising or commending ourselves, we should strive to approve ourselves to God, and his approbation will be our best commendation.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
10:12 Paul now charges his enemies with a set of false values, since they attached great importance to themselves.