2 Corinthians 11:17

KJV

That which I speak, I speak [it] not after the Lord, but as it were foolishly, in this confidence of boasting.

KJV (with Strong's)

That which {G3739} I speak {G2980}, I speak {G2980} it not {G3756} after {G2596} the Lord {G2962}, but {G235} as {G5613} it were foolishly {G1722}{G877}, in {G1722} this {G5026} confidence {G5287} of boasting {G2746}.

Complete Jewish Bible

What I am saying is not in accordance with the Lord; rather, this conceited boasting is spoken as a fool would speak.

Berean Standard Bible

In this confident boasting of mine, I am not speaking as the Lord would, but as a fool.

American Standard Version

That which I speak, I speak not after the Lord, but as in foolishness, in this confidence of glorying.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 2 Corinthians 11:17, the Apostle Paul reluctantly declares that his ensuing discourse, characterized by self-commendation, is not in line with the Lord's typical instruction or his own preferred method of ministry, but rather a necessary, albeit "foolish," concession compelled by the boasting of false apostles in Corinth. He frames this departure from his usual humility as a pragmatic response, undertaken in the "confidence" or "basis" of the situation, which forces him to engage in a form of boasting to defend his legitimate apostolic authority and the integrity of the gospel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as a crucial pivot within Paul's "fool's speech" (often considered to span [2 Corinthians 10](/2_corinthians/10 "2 Corinthians 10 - Paul's Apostolic Authority") through [2 Corinthians 12](/2_corinthians/12 "2 Corinthians 12 - Paul's Weakness and Strength")). Having previously established his apostolic authority and defended his ministry against detractors in [2 Corinthians 10](/2_corinthians/10 "2 Corinthians 10 - Paul's Apostolic Authority") by emphasizing spiritual warfare and obedience to Christ, Paul now reluctantly adopts the rhetorical style of his opponents. He is about to engage in a form of self-commendation, which he explicitly states is "not after the Lord," indicating a deviation from his usual practice of boasting only in the Lord or in his weaknesses. This verse sets the stage for his ironic and sarcastic "boasting" about his sufferings, labors, and genuine apostolic credentials, which stands in stark contrast to the worldly boasting of the "super-apostles."
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The Corinthian church was plagued by external challenges from "false apostles" or "super-apostles" (as Paul sarcastically calls them in [2 Corinthians 11:5](/2_corinthians/11-5 "2 Corinthians 11:5 - Super-Apostles")). These individuals likely arrived in Corinth with impressive letters of recommendation, eloquent rhetorical skills, and a self-assured demeanor, all highly valued in Greco-Roman society. They probably criticized Paul for his lack of polished oratory, his manual labor (which they might have seen as undignified for a teacher), and his apparent lack of impressive spiritual displays. In a culture where public speaking and self-promotion were common, Paul's humble approach was perceived as weakness. Paul's declaration in 2 Corinthians 11:17 acknowledges this cultural pressure and his forced engagement with it, even as he subverts its values.
* **Key Themes:** The verse contributes significantly to several key themes in 2 Corinthians. Foremost is the theme of **true versus false apostolic authority**, contrasting Paul's Christ-centered, suffering-laden ministry with the self-exalting, worldly approach of his rivals. It highlights the theme of **boasting**, distinguishing between worldly self-commendation and legitimate boasting "in the Lord" ([2 Corinthians 10:17](/2_corinthians/10-17 "2 Corinthians 10:17 - Boasting in the Lord")) or in one's weaknesses ([2 Corinthians 12:9-10](/2_corinthians/12-9-10 "2 Corinthians 12:9-10 - God's Power in Weakness")). The tension between **God's wisdom and worldly wisdom** is also prominent, as Paul's "foolish" speech deliberately adopts a worldly posture to expose its emptiness. Ultimately, this section underscores the paradox of **strength in weakness**, a foundational concept for Paul, as his defense of his ministry often revolves around his sufferings and perceived deficiencies, which he sees as opportunities for Christ's power to be displayed.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **speak (Greek, _laléō_):** This verb denotes the act of uttering words or talking. Paul uses it to explicitly describe the nature of his discourse that follows. By saying "That which I speak, I speak," he emphasizes the deliberate and conscious choice he is making to engage in this particular form of communication, even though it is against his usual principles.
* **foolishly (Greek, _aphrosýnē_):** Derived from a word meaning "senselessness" or "egotism," _aphrosýnē_ here refers to a lack of sound judgment or prudence, often bordering on recklessness. Paul uses this term with heavy irony. He is not genuinely foolish, but he is adopting a "foolish" persona or method—one that involves self-commendation—because his opponents are operating on such worldly, foolish terms, forcing him to respond in kind.
* **confidence (Greek, _hypóstasis_):** This multifaceted term can mean "a setting under," "support," "substance," "essence," or "assurance." In this context, it refers to the underlying basis or ground for Paul's boasting. It's not a confidence in his own merits, but rather the compelling necessity or "substance" of the situation—the challenge posed by the false apostles—that serves as the foundation for his reluctant boasting. His "confidence" to boast comes from the circumstances, not from pride.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"That which I speak, I speak [it] not after the Lord":** Paul begins with a stark disclaimer. The phrase "not after the Lord" (οὐ κατὰ Κύριον, _ou kata Kyrion_) signifies that his upcoming boasting is not in accordance with Christ's character, His teachings, or the Spirit's usual leading for ministry. It implies that this self-commendation is not a divinely mandated or preferred method for an apostle. Paul typically boasts only in the Lord ([1 Corinthians 1:31](/1_corinthians/1-31 "1 Corinthians 1:31 - Boasting in the Lord")) or in his weaknesses, so this public declaration of self-praise is a pragmatic, uncomfortable departure from his norm, undertaken out of necessity rather than principle.
* **"but as it were foolishly":** Here, Paul employs deep **irony** and **sarcasm**. He is not truly acting foolishly in a negative sense, but he is adopting the "foolish" (worldly, self-exalting) posture of his opponents. By embracing this "foolishness," Paul intends to expose the absurdity and spiritual bankruptcy of their worldly boasting. It's a rhetorical strategy to fight fire with fire, but with a clear, self-aware disclaimer that he knows this is not the ideal way to operate.
* **"in this confidence of boasting":** This phrase clarifies the basis or "substance" (_hypóstasis_) of Paul's reluctant boasting. His "confidence" or "ground" for engaging in this uncharacteristic self-commendation is not rooted in personal pride or a desire for self-glory. Instead, it is compelled by the urgent need to defend his legitimate apostleship and the gospel message against the false claims and worldly boasting of his rivals. The situation itself provides the "confidence" or "basis" that forces him into this uncomfortable rhetorical mode.

#### Literary Devices
Paul masterfully employs several literary devices in this verse to convey his complex message. The most prominent is **Irony**, as Paul explicitly states he will speak "foolishly," knowing full well that true wisdom lies elsewhere. This sets up the entire "fool's speech" where he will ironically boast about things that the world considers weaknesses (sufferings, persecutions) to demonstrate God's power. Closely related is **Sarcasm**, evident in his adoption of the "foolish" persona, which serves to mock and expose the folly of his opponents' worldly self-commendation. The phrase "not after the Lord" also functions as a form of **Antithesis**, sharply contrasting his forced, worldly method with his usual, Christ-centered approach. This deliberate rhetorical choice highlights his profound reluctance and the extreme pressure he feels to defend the gospel and his ministry against those who undermine it with worldly standards.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's reluctant declaration in 2 Corinthians 11:17 underscores a profound theological tension between worldly standards of success and God's paradoxical wisdom. It highlights that true spiritual authority and commendation come from God, not from human eloquence, impressive credentials, or self-promotion. Paul's willingness to step into a "foolish" mode, while explicitly disclaiming it as "not after the Lord," reveals his deep pastoral concern for the Corinthians, who were being swayed by superficial displays of power. This passage challenges believers to discern the true source of authority and to recognize that God's power is often made perfect in weakness, not in human strength or boastfulness.

* [1 Corinthians 1:31](/1_corinthians/1-31 "1 Corinthians 1:31 - Boasting in the Lord") – "That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord."
* [2 Corinthians 10:17](/2_corinthians/10-17 "2 Corinthians 10:17 - Boasting in the Lord") – "But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord."
* [2 Corinthians 12:9-10](/2_corinthians/12-9-10 "2 Corinthians 12:9-10 - God's Power in Weakness") – "And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Paul's dilemma in 2 Corinthians 11:17 offers a powerful lesson for believers today. In a world that often values self-promotion, outward success, and impressive credentials, we, like Paul, can feel pressured to defend our faith or ministry using worldly metrics. This verse reminds us that while there may be times when we must speak up or assert truth, our ultimate confidence and basis for action should always be rooted in Christ, not in our own achievements or merits. It challenges us to examine our motives when we feel compelled to boast or defend ourselves, ensuring that our actions, even when uncomfortable, ultimately serve to glorify God and uphold His truth, rather than our own reputation. We are called to humility, recognizing that true strength comes from dependence on God, not from our own abilities or worldly acclaim.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **When do you feel pressured to "boast" or defend yourself in ways that feel "not after the Lord"?**
* **How can you discern between a legitimate defense of truth and a worldly act of self-promotion?**
* **In what areas of your life or ministry do you struggle with relying on worldly "confidence" rather than God's strength?**
* **How does Paul's example of reluctant, ironic boasting challenge your understanding of humility and spiritual authority?**

### FAQ

**Why does Paul say he speaks "not after the Lord" in this context?**

Answer: Paul's statement "not after the Lord" (οὐ κατὰ Κύριον) is a crucial disclaimer. It means that the self-commendation he is about to engage in is not in accordance with Christ's character, His teachings, or the Spirit's usual leading for ministry. Paul typically boasts only in the Lord or in his weaknesses, as seen in [1 Corinthians 1:31](/1_corinthians/1-31 "1 Corinthians 1:31 - Boasting in the Lord") and [2 Corinthians 10:17](/2_corinthians/10-17 "2 Corinthians 10:17 - Boasting in the Lord"). He is being forced into this "foolish" boasting by the false apostles who are undermining his authority and the gospel in Corinth. Therefore, he explicitly states that this is a pragmatic, uncomfortable deviation from his usual, Christ-centered approach, undertaken out of necessity rather than divine command or personal preference.

**What does Paul mean by saying he speaks "as it were foolishly"?**

Answer: When Paul says he speaks "as it were foolishly" (ὡς ἐν ἀφροσύνῃ), he is employing **irony** and **sarcasm**. He is not genuinely acting foolishly in a negative sense. Instead, he is deliberately adopting the "foolish" (worldly, self-exalting) rhetorical style of his opponents, the "super-apostles," to expose their folly. In the eyes of the world, boasting about one's achievements was a sign of wisdom and strength, but from God's perspective, such self-exaltation is foolishness ([1 Corinthians 3:19](/1_corinthians/3-19 "1 Corinthians 3:19 - Worldly Wisdom is Foolishness")). Paul is turning their own game against them, using their methods to highlight the emptiness of their claims and the true nature of legitimate apostolic ministry, which is often characterized by weakness and suffering for Christ's sake, as he details in [2 Corinthians 11:23-33](/2_corinthians/11-23-33 "2 Corinthians 11:23-33 - Paul's Sufferings").

**Who were the "false apostles" Paul was responding to in Corinth?**

Answer: The "false apostles" (or "super-apostles" as Paul sarcastically calls them in [2 Corinthians 11:5](/2_corinthians/11-5 "2 Corinthians 11:5 - Super-Apostles")) were individuals who had infiltrated the Corinthian church and were challenging Paul's authority and ministry. While their exact identity is debated among scholars, they were likely Jewish-Christian missionaries who emphasized their Jewish heritage, perhaps their connections to Jerusalem, and their impressive rhetorical skills. They probably boasted about their spiritual experiences and credentials, contrasting them with Paul's perceived weaknesses (lack of eloquence, manual labor, suffering). Paul viewed them as deceivers who were distorting the gospel and leading the Corinthians astray ([2 Corinthians 11:3-4](/2_corinthians/11-3-4 "2 Corinthians 11:3-4 - Paul's Concern for the Corinthians")). His entire "fool's speech" in [2 Corinthians 10-12](/2_corinthians/10-12 "2 Corinthians 10-12 - Paul's Defense of His Apostleship") is a direct response to their challenge.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Paul's reluctant "foolish" boasting, though seemingly a departure from his Christ-centered norm, ultimately serves to highlight the profound contrast between worldly glory and the glory of Christ. While Paul states his boasting is "not after the Lord," this very disclaimer, and the content of his subsequent "boasting" (which focuses on his sufferings and weaknesses for the gospel), ultimately points back to Christ's own path of humility and self-emptying. Jesus, "though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men" ([Philippians 2:6-7](/philippians/2-6-7 "Philippians 2:6-7 - Christ's Humility")). Christ's ultimate "boast" or commendation came not through self-exaltation, but through His obedient suffering and death on the cross, through which God highly exalted Him ([Philippians 2:8-9](/philippians/2-8-9 "Philippians 2:8-9 - Christ's Exaltation")). Paul's "boasting" in his weaknesses ([2 Corinthians 12:9-10](/2_corinthians/12-9-10 "2 Corinthians 12:9-10 - God's Power in Weakness")) mirrors Christ's strength perfected in human weakness, demonstrating that true power and authority in the Kingdom of God are found not in worldly showmanship, but in identification with the suffering and humble Savior. Thus, even in this uncomfortable rhetorical maneuver, Paul's ultimate aim is to uphold the truth of the gospel and the pattern of Christ, who is the true standard for all ministry and life.

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

1 Corinthians 7:12

But to the rest speak I, not the Lord: If any brother hath a wife that believeth not, and she be pleased to dwell with him, let him not put her away.

Philippians 3:3

For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.

Philippians 3:6

Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.

2 Corinthians 9:4

Lest haply if they of Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared, we (that we say not, ye) should be ashamed in this same confident boasting.

1 Corinthians 7:25

¶ Now concerning virgins I have no commandment of the Lord: yet I give my judgment, as one that hath obtained mercy of the Lord to be faithful.

1 Corinthians 7:6

But I speak this by permission, [and] not of commandment.

2 Corinthians 11:18

Seeing that many glory after the flesh, I will glory also.