2 Corinthians 10:13

KJV

But we will not boast of things without [our] measure, but according to the measure of the rule which God hath distributed to us, a measure to reach even unto you.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} we {G2249} will {G2744} not {G3780} boast {G2744} of things without {G1519} our measure {G280}, but {G235} according {G2596} to the measure {G3358} of the rule {G2583} which {G3739} God {G2316} hath distributed {G3307} to us {G2254}, a measure {G3358} to reach {G2185} even {G2532} unto {G891} you {G5216}.

Complete Jewish Bible

We will not boast about what lies outside the area of work which God has given us; rather, we will boast within our assigned area, and that area does reach as far as you.

Berean Standard Bible

We, 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.

American Standard Version

But we will not glory beyond our measure, but according to the measure of the province which God apportioned to us as a measure, to reach even unto you.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Corinthians 10:13, the Apostle Paul articulates a foundational principle of his apostolic ministry: his boasting is not self-aggrandizing or unbounded, but is strictly confined to the divinely appointed sphere of influence and authority that God has sovereignly entrusted to him. This "measure of the rule" legitimizes his ministry, particularly his foundational work among the Corinthian believers, distinguishing it from the unmeasured and illegitimate claims of his opponents.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within Paul's fervent defense of his apostolic authority and integrity against a faction of false apostles and critics in Corinth. Chapters 10-13 constitute the most polemical section of 2 Corinthians, where Paul directly addresses the challenges to his leadership and character. In 2 Corinthians 10, Paul contrasts his seemingly unimpressive physical presence with the immense spiritual power of his ministry, emphasizing that his warfare is not carnal but spiritual, designed to demolish strongholds and bring every thought captive to Christ ([2 Corinthians 10:3-5](/2_corinthians/10-3-5 "2 Corinthians 10:3-5 - Spiritual Warfare")). He is refuting those who judge him by outward appearances and worldly standards, asserting that his authority is for building up, not tearing down ([2 Corinthians 10:8](/2_corinthians/10-8 "2 Corinthians 10:8 - Authority for Edification")). Verse 13 specifically introduces the concept of divinely ordained boundaries for ministry, setting the stage for his critique of those who boast beyond their God-given sphere in subsequent verses ([2 Corinthians 10:15-16](/2_corinthians/10-15-16 "2 Corinthians 10:15-16 - Boasting in God's Measure")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Corinthian church was a complex and often problematic community, influenced by the Hellenistic culture of its prominent port city. This culture valued rhetoric, philosophical prowess, and outward displays of power and wisdom. Paul's opponents, likely "super-apostles" ([2 Corinthians 11:5](/2_corinthians/11-5 "2 Corinthians 11:5 - Super-Apostles")), probably boasted of their eloquence, impressive credentials, and perhaps even their ability to perform signs and wonders, all while criticizing Paul's perceived weakness, lack of oratorical skill, and refusal to accept financial support. The concept of "boasting" (καυχάομαι - _kaucháomai_) was common in both Jewish and Greco-Roman contexts, often referring to self-praise or pride in one's achievements. Paul consistently redefines boasting, redirecting it from human accomplishment to God's work, as seen throughout his epistles, especially in [1 Corinthians 1:31](/1_corinthians/1-31 "1 Corinthians 1:31 - Boasting in the Lord"). His assertion of a "measure of the rule" (μέτρον τοῦ κανόνος - _métron tou kanónos_) reflects a common understanding of defined spheres of influence or authority, but here, it is uniquely attributed to divine distribution.
* **Key Themes:** The verse significantly contributes to several major themes in 2 Corinthians and Paul's broader theology. It underscores the theme of **Divine Commission and Authority**, emphasizing that true ministry flows from God's appointment, not human ambition or self-promotion. This leads to the theme of **Legitimate Boasting**, where Paul distinguishes his boasting in God's work within his assigned "measure" from the illegitimate, unmeasured boasting of his rivals. It introduces the crucial concept of a **Sphere of Influence** or **Boundary of Ministry**, highlighting that God assigns specific fields of labor, and faithfulness involves operating within these divinely established limits. Finally, it serves as a powerful component of Paul's **Apostolic Defense**, affirming his unique and legitimate claim to the Corinthian church as part of his God-given mission field, thereby validating his right to instruct and correct them.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **boast (Greek, _kaucháomai'_):** (G2744) This verb means "to vaunt," "to glory," or "to rejoice," and can be used in both a positive and negative sense. Here, Paul uses it to contrast his God-centered, measured boasting with the self-aggrandizing, unmeasured boasting of his opponents. His boasting is not about himself but about God's work through him.
* **measure (Greek, _métron'_):** (G3358) This word refers to a "measure" or "metre," literally or figuratively, and implies a "limited portion" or "degree." In this context, it signifies a divinely allotted portion or sphere of ministry, emphasizing a boundary or extent of spiritual authority and influence.
* **rule (Greek, _kanṓn'_):** (G2583) Derived from a word meaning "a straight reed" or "rod," this term refers to a "rule," "standard," "boundary," or "sphere of activity." When combined with "measure," it powerfully conveys the idea of a divinely established measuring line or assigned territory for ministry, indicating a specific scope of work and authority given by God.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But we will not boast of things without [our] measure":** Paul immediately establishes a contrast ("But") with the unmeasured boasting of his adversaries. He asserts that his boasting is not random, excessive, or beyond legitimate boundaries. The phrase "without [our] measure" (ámetros - G280) implies an immoderate or unbounded claim, which Paul rejects for himself, implicitly attributing it to his opponents who operate outside divinely ordained limits.
* **"but according to the measure of the rule which God hath distributed to us":** This clause clarifies the nature of Paul's legitimate boasting. It is "according to" (katá - G2596) a specific "measure" (métron - G3358) and "rule" (kanṓn - G2583). Crucially, this "measure of the rule" is not self-chosen or humanly determined but is "which God hath distributed" (merízō - G3307) to Paul and his co-workers. This emphasizes the divine origin and authorization of their ministry, establishing God as the ultimate source of their sphere of influence and authority.
* **"a measure to reach even unto you":** This final phrase specifies the extent of the divinely distributed "measure." Paul asserts that his God-given sphere of ministry legitimately extends "even unto" (áchri - G891) the Corinthians. This is a direct claim of apostolic right and responsibility over the Corinthian church, as he was the one who initially brought them the gospel and established the community. It underscores that his presence and authority in Corinth are not an intrusion but a fulfillment of his God-given commission.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Contrast** to highlight the difference between Paul's legitimate, God-ordained ministry and the self-appointed, unbounded claims of his opponents. Paul's "measured" boasting stands in stark opposition to "things without [our] measure." The central phrase "measure of the rule" functions as a powerful **Metaphor** for a divinely allotted sphere of ministry or a specific boundary of apostolic authority. The "rule" (κανών - _kanṓn_) itself is a **Metonymy**, where the measuring rod or standard represents the divinely established boundary or scope of work. Furthermore, the phrase "God hath distributed" utilizes **Personification** by attributing the action of distribution directly to God, emphasizing His active role in assigning ministries and setting their limits.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
2 Corinthians 10:13 profoundly impacts our understanding of divine calling, spiritual authority, and the nature of Christian service. It teaches that true ministry is not self-initiated or based on human ambition, but is a sacred trust, a "measure of the rule" divinely distributed by God. This perspective fosters humility, as any legitimate "boasting" must be solely in what God has accomplished through His appointed servants within their specific spheres. It also provides a framework for discerning authentic ministry from illegitimate claims, emphasizing that God sets boundaries and empowers individuals for particular tasks, rather than granting limitless authority. This divine distribution ensures order, prevents spiritual overreach, and directs believers to focus on faithfulness within their God-given assignments.

* [Romans 12:3](/romans/12-3 "Romans 12:3 - Measure of Faith")
* [1 Corinthians 3:10](/1_corinthians/3-10 "1 Corinthians 3:10 - Building on the Foundation")
* [Ephesians 4:7](/ephesians/4-7 "Ephesians 4:7 - Grace According to the Measure of Christ's Gift")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's assertion in 2 Corinthians 10:13 serves as a crucial reminder for every believer and leader in the church today: our effectiveness and legitimacy in ministry are not determined by our self-promotion, charisma, or comparison with others, but by our faithful stewardship within the specific "measure of the rule" that God has distributed to us. This calls for a deep introspection into our own gifts, callings, and the unique spheres of influence God has placed us in. It encourages us to resist the temptation to overreach, to covet another's platform, or to boast in accomplishments that are not genuinely within our God-given assignment. Instead, it invites us to find contentment and purpose in diligently cultivating the spiritual ground God has entrusted to us, recognizing that true glory belongs to Him alone for what He accomplishes through us. Our focus should be on faithfulness to our specific calling, allowing God to define our boundaries and measure our impact.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life and service do I tend to "boast without measure," perhaps comparing myself to others or seeking recognition outside of God's clear calling?**
* **How can I better discern and operate within the "measure of the rule" that God has distributed to me, rather than striving for what is beyond my God-given sphere?**
* **What does it look like to boast legitimately in the Lord's work through me, rather than in my own abilities or achievements?**

### FAQ

**What does "measure of the rule" specifically refer to in this verse?**

Answer: The "measure of the rule" (Greek: _métron tou kanónos_) refers to a divinely appointed sphere of ministry, a specific boundary or territory of influence and authority that God has sovereignly allotted to Paul. The word "rule" (_kanón_) literally means a measuring rod or standard, and by extension, a prescribed line or boundary. Thus, Paul is asserting that God has given him a specific, measurable area of apostolic work, and that the Corinthian church falls legitimately within those God-given boundaries. It signifies a divinely established scope of labor and responsibility, contrasting with those who operate outside such divine limits.

**How does Paul's "boasting" here differ from the negative sense of boasting often condemned in Scripture?**

Answer: Paul consistently distinguishes between two types of boasting. He condemns boasting in human achievements, self-reliance, or worldly wisdom, which detracts from God's glory (e.g., [1 Corinthians 1:29](/1_corinthians/1-29 "1 Corinthians 1:29 - No Boasting in the Flesh")). However, he affirms a legitimate form of boasting, which is boasting "in the Lord" ([1 Corinthians 1:31](/1_corinthians/1-31 "1 Corinthians 1:31 - Boasting in the Lord")) or in what God has accomplished through him. In 2 Corinthians 10:13, Paul's boasting is legitimate because it is not about his own merit but about the divine commission and the demonstrable fruit of his ministry within the sphere God "distributed" to him. It is a humble acknowledgment of God's work and faithfulness through His chosen vessel, not a self-exalting claim.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 2 Corinthians 10:13 speaks to Paul's specific apostolic commission, its underlying principles find their ultimate fulfillment and pattern in Christ. Jesus Himself operated entirely within the "measure of the rule" given to Him by the Father, never seeking His own glory or acting outside of the Father's will ([John 5:30](/john/5-30 "John 5:30 - Jesus Does Not Seek His Own Will")). His ministry was perfectly aligned with His divine commission to seek and save the lost ([Luke 19:10](/luke/19-10 "Luke 19:10 - The Son of Man Came to Seek and Save the Lost")) and to accomplish the Father's redemptive plan ([John 6:38](/john/6-38 "John 6:38 - Jesus Does the Father's Will")). Christ is the ultimate "rule" and "measure" by which all true ministry is defined and validated. He is the one who "distributed" gifts and callings to His church, empowering believers to build up His body within their unique spheres ([Ephesians 4:7-12](/ephesians/4-7-12 "Ephesians 4:7-12 - Gifts for the Church's Edification")). Therefore, to boast "according to the measure of the rule which God hath distributed to us" is, at its core, to boast in the Christ who empowers and defines our service, ensuring that all glory redounds to Him, the head of the church and the perfect embodiment of God's will.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Romans 15:20

Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man's foundation:

Romans 12:6

Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, [let us prophesy] according to the proportion of faith;

2 Corinthians 10:14

For we stretch not ourselves beyond [our measure], as though we reached not unto you: for we are come as far as to you also in [preaching] the gospel of Christ:

2 Corinthians 10:15

Not boasting of things without [our] measure, [that is], of other men's labours; but having hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly,

1 Peter 4:10

As every man hath received the gift, [even so] minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

Ephesians 4:7

But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.

Romans 12:3

For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think [of himself] more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.