TRV
2 Corinthians 11:5
Bible Versions
¶ For I suppose I was not a whit behind the very chiefest apostles.
For I don’t consider myself in any way inferior to these “super-emissaries.”
I consider myself in no way inferior to those “super-apostles.”
For I reckon that I am not a whit behind the very chiefest apostles.
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2 Corinthians 12:11
¶ I am become a fool in glorying; ye have compelled me: for I ought to have been commended of you: for in nothing am I behind the very chiefest apostles, though I be nothing. -
2 Corinthians 12:12
Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds. -
1 Corinthians 15:10
But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which [was bestowed] upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. -
Galatians 2:6
But of these who seemed to be somewhat, (whatsoever they were, it maketh no matter to me: God accepteth no man's person:) for they who seemed [to be somewhat] in conference added nothing to me: -
Galatians 2:9
And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we [should go] unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.
Context
In 2 Corinthians 11:5, the Apostle Paul continues his impassioned defense of his apostolic authority and the integrity of his ministry to the Corinthian church. This entire section (chapters 10-13) addresses challenges from certain individuals, whom Paul sarcastically calls "super-apostles" or "chiefest apostles," who had infiltrated the church. These false teachers were likely boasting of their eloquence, spiritual experiences, or connections, while subtly or overtly undermining Paul's character, his gospel message, and his method of ministry (e.g., his refusal to accept financial support, as mentioned in 2 Corinthians 11:7-9). Paul is compelled to "boast" in a way that highlights his divine commission and his sufferings for Christ, contrasting sharply with the self-promotion of his detractors.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The phrase "not a whit behind" translates the Greek oude hen hysterēsai, meaning "not in any respect to be inferior" or "not to lack anything." The inclusion of oude hen ("not even one thing") strongly emphasizes that Paul considered himself completely equal in apostolic standing. The term "chiefest apostles" comes from the Greek hyperlian apostoloi, which literally means "super-apostles" or "exceedingly great apostles." Paul uses this term with heavy irony and sarcasm, referring to the false teachers who boasted of their own elevated status and sought to diminish his ministry.
Practical Application
This verse reminds believers of the importance of discerning true spiritual leadership from false. Paul's defense was not for personal glory but to protect the Corinthian church from deceptive teachings and manipulative ministers. Today, we are called to evaluate teachers and ministries not by their charisma, eloquence, or self-proclaimed titles, but by their faithfulness to the sound gospel message, their integrity, and their fruit (Matthew 7:15-20). True spiritual authority often manifests through humble service and sacrificial living, rather than through self-promotion or demands for worldly gain. Paul's example encourages us to stand firm in the truth and to value genuine spiritual integrity over outward appearances or persuasive rhetoric.