2 Corinthians 10:18

For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.

For {G1063} not {G3756} he {G1565} that commendeth {G4921} himself {G1438} is {G2076} approved {G1384}, but {G235} whom {G3739} the Lord {G2962} commendeth {G4921}.

because it is not the one who recommends himself who is worthy of approval, but the one whom the Lord recommends.

For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.

For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.

Commentary

2 Corinthians 10:18 is a powerful concluding statement in a section where the Apostle Paul defends his ministry and apostleship against those in Corinth who challenged his authority and methods. He contrasts his approach, which relies on God, with that of false teachers who sought to elevate themselves.

Context

This verse comes at the end of Paul's argument in 2 Corinthians chapter 10, where he addresses accusations of weakness and lack of eloquence. His opponents, likely influential figures within the Corinthian church, boasted of their own credentials, rhetorical skills, and worldly wisdom. Paul emphasizes that true power in ministry comes not from human strength or self-promotion, but from God, equipping believers with spiritual weapons to tear down strongholds and vain imaginations. This verse serves as a summary, highlighting the ultimate source of genuine approval.

Key Themes

  • Divine Approval vs. Self-Commendation: The core message is that human validation, especially self-congratulation, is meaningless in God's eyes. What truly matters is God's assessment and endorsement. Paul asserts that genuine authority and worth are conferred by the Lord, not by one's own boasting or the praise of others.
  • Humility in Ministry: Paul consistently modeled humility, focusing on Christ rather than himself. This verse underscores the importance of a humble spirit, recognizing that any true success or commendation in service comes from God. It stands in stark contrast to the self-exaltation often seen in worldly leadership.
  • Authenticity and Integrity: True ministry and genuine faith are not about outward show or impressive displays, but about a heart approved by God. This speaks to the integrity of one's walk and work, knowing that God sees beyond appearances.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV word "commendeth" translates the Greek term synistao (συνίστημι), which means "to introduce," "to present," or "to prove." It implies making oneself known or vouching for oneself. The word "approved" comes from the Greek dokimos (δόκιμος), which signifies "tested," "tried," and found "genuine" or "acceptable." This term was often used for metals tested for purity and found to be true. Thus, the verse states that it is not the one who presents or proves himself who is found genuine, but the one whom the Lord Himself tests and approves as pure and authentic.

Related Scriptures

  • This principle echoes Proverbs 27:2: "Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips."
  • Paul also touched on this in Romans 2:29, stating that true praise comes "not of men, but of God."
  • The ultimate judgment and source of praise are found in God, as Paul states in 1 Corinthians 4:5: "...and then shall every man have praise of God."
  • Jesus Himself taught a similar principle regarding humility and exaltation in Matthew 23:12: "And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted."

Practical Application

For believers today, 2 Corinthians 10:18 is a vital reminder to seek God's approval above all else. In a world that often values self-promotion, personal branding, and outward success, this verse calls us to a different standard. Whether in ministry, career, or daily life, our focus should be on faithfully serving God and allowing His commendation to be our ultimate validation. It encourages us to resist the temptation to boast or to be swayed by those who do, trusting that God sees our hearts and deeds, and His approval is the only one that truly counts for eternity.

Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Proverbs 21:2

    ¶ Every way of a man [is] right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts.

  • Luke 16:15

    And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.

  • Romans 2:29

    But he [is] a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision [is that] of the heart, in the spirit, [and] not in the letter; whose praise [is] not of men, but of God.

  • 1 Corinthians 4:5

    Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God.

  • 2 Corinthians 10:12

    ¶ For we dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.

  • John 12:43

    For they loved the praise of men more than the praise of God.

  • Luke 18:10

    Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.
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