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,

Not {G3756} boasting {G2744} of things without {G1519} our measure {G280}, that is, of {G1722} other men's {G245} labours {G2873}; but {G1161} having {G2192} hope {G1680}, when your {G5216} faith {G4102} is increased {G837}, that we shall be enlarged {G3170} by {G1722} you {G5213} according {G2596} to our {G2257} rule {G2583} abundantly {G1519}{G4050},

We do not boast about the area in which others labor; but our hope is that as your trust grows, we will be magnified in your midst in relation to our own area of work, so that we can go on to do even more,

Neither do we boast beyond our limits in the labors of others. But we hope that as your faith increases, our area of influence among you will greatly increase as well,

not glorying beyond our measure, that is, in other men’s labors; but having hope that, as your faith groweth, we shall be magnified in you according to our province unto further abundance,

Commentary

In 2 Corinthians 10:15, the Apostle Paul continues his defense against accusations and criticisms from those in Corinth who questioned his apostolic authority. He addresses the issue of legitimate ministry and the dangers of boasting beyond one's God-given boundaries.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's broader argument in 2 Corinthians 10, where he contrasts his humble appearance with his spiritual authority. He is dealing with "false apostles" or opponents who were likely boasting about their own achievements and perhaps taking credit for work they didn't initiate, thereby undermining Paul's foundational work in Corinth. Paul emphasizes that his ministry is not based on worldly standards or self-promotion, but on a divine commission. He is careful not to claim credit for "other men's labours", a principle he held consistently in his ministry. This passage highlights the tension between true apostolic ministry and the self-exalting practices of some within the Corinthian church.

Key Themes

  • Legitimate Ministry and Boundaries: Paul rejects the practice of "boasting of things without [our] measure," meaning operating or claiming credit outside the sphere of ministry God had assigned him. His focus is on his own divinely appointed field, not infringing upon or taking credit for others' work. This principle underscores the importance of respecting spiritual boundaries and callings.
  • Growth and Expansion through Faith: Paul expresses a hopeful expectation that as the Corinthian believers' "faith is increased," his legitimate sphere of influence will also "be enlarged." This enlargement is not about personal gain or pride, but about the gospel's spread and the spiritual maturity of the church. The growth of their faith would enable him to extend his ministry further, according to his God-given "rule" or standard.
  • Humility and Dependence on God: Unlike his opponents who boasted in their own achievements, Paul's boasting is rooted in the Lord (2 Corinthians 10:17). He acknowledges that any enlargement of his ministry depends on the spiritual growth of the believers he served, highlighting an interdependent relationship within the body of Christ.

Linguistic Insights

  • The Greek word for "measure" is metron (μέτρον), which refers to a divinely appointed sphere or limit of activity. Paul is asserting that he operates within the boundaries God has given him for his apostolic calling.
  • "Rule" is from the Greek word kanon (κανών), which originally meant a measuring rod or standard. In this context, it signifies a defined sphere of activity or an established principle of ministry. Paul's "rule" was his God-given apostolic assignment to evangelize and establish churches where Christ had not yet been named.
  • "Enlarged" (megalynomai - μεγαλύνομαι) conveys the idea of being magnified or extended. It implies an expansion of his legitimate sphere of influence as the Corinthians' faith matured, allowing him to reach further into regions beyond them for the glory of God.

Practical Application

For believers today, 2 Corinthians 10:15 offers vital lessons on Christian ministry and conduct:

  • Respecting Others' Work: It calls us to recognize and appreciate the unique callings and contributions of others in the body of Christ, avoiding the temptation to take credit for work we haven't done or to infringe upon another's God-given sphere of ministry.
  • Operating Within Our Calling: We should strive to identify and faithfully operate within the "measure" or "rule" that God has given us, whether in spiritual gifts, specific ministry roles, or personal influence. This promotes healthy collaboration rather than competition within the church.
  • Interdependence in Ministry: The verse beautifully illustrates how the spiritual growth of one part of the body (the Corinthians' faith) can directly enable the expansion of another's ministry (Paul's outreach). Our spiritual maturity can empower and enlarge the impact of others for the Kingdom.
  • Avoiding Self-Promotion: Paul's example encourages humility and a focus on God's glory, not personal accolades. True spiritual influence comes from God's blessing on faithful, humble service, not from human boasting or self-exaltation.
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Cross-References

  • Romans 15:20 (8 votes)

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

  • 2 Thessalonians 1:3 (7 votes)

    We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth;

  • 2 Corinthians 10:13 (5 votes)

    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.

  • Acts 5:13 (4 votes)

    And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the people magnified them.