2 Corinthians 11:6

But though [I be] rude in speech, yet not in knowledge; but we have been throughly made manifest among you in all things.

But {G1161} though {G1499} I be rude {G2399} in speech {G3056}, yet {G235} not {G3756} in knowledge {G1108}; but {G235} we have been throughly {G1722}{G3956} made manifest {G5319} among {G1519} you {G5209} in {G1722} all things {G3956}.

I may not be a skilled speaker, but I do have the knowledge; anyhow, we have made this clear to you in every way and in every circumstance.

Although I am not a polished speaker, I am certainly not lacking in knowledge. We have made this clear to you in every way possible.

But though I be rude in speech, yet am I not in knowledge; nay, in every way have we made this manifest unto you in all things.

In 2 Corinthians 11:6, the Apostle Paul continues his defense against the false apostles who were challenging his authority and ministry in Corinth. He addresses a specific criticism leveled against him, asserting the true nature of his apostolic calling.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's broader self-defense, often called his "fool's speech" or "boasting" (see 2 Corinthians 11:1), where he reluctantly boasts about his hardships and apostolic credentials to expose the deceitful practices of certain individuals. The Corinthian church, known for its appreciation of eloquent rhetoric and sophisticated speakers, was apparently swayed by those who criticized Paul's lack of oratorical polish. These "super-apostles" (as Paul sarcastically refers to them in 2 Corinthians 11:5) likely presented themselves with impressive speaking skills, contrasting sharply with Paul's more direct and less ornate style.

Key Themes

  • Authenticity Over Eloquence: Paul admits to being "rude in speech," acknowledging that his communication style might not have met the Corinthian standard for polished rhetoric. However, he immediately counters this by asserting his superior "knowledge" of divine truth. This highlights that the substance of the message and the spiritual understanding behind it are far more important than the delivery method.
  • Demonstrated Ministry: Paul emphasizes that his knowledge and apostleship were "throughly made manifest among you in all things." This means his ministry was not just about words, but about visible, undeniable demonstrations of God's power, truth, and genuine concern for the Corinthians, evident in his actions, teachings, and the fruit of his labor among them. His life and work were an open book.
  • Defense of Apostolic Authority: This verse is a crucial part of Paul's vindication of his legitimate apostleship. He argues that his divine commission was proven not by human wisdom or oratorical flair, but by the clear manifestation of God's truth through him (1 Corinthians 2:4).

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "rude in speech" translates the Greek word idiotes (ἰδιώτης). In this context, it doesn't mean ignorant or foolish, but rather "unskilled," "unprofessional," or "layman" in terms of formal rhetorical training. Paul is conceding that he was not a trained orator in the classical Greek sense. However, his claim to "knowledge" (Greek gnosis, γνῶσις) refers to a deep, spiritual understanding and insight into God's revealed truth, which he received directly from Christ (Galatians 1:11-12).

Practical Application

For believers today, 2 Corinthians 11:6 serves as a vital reminder to prioritize substance over style in ministry and spiritual leadership. We should be discerning, looking beyond charismatic personalities or eloquent speakers to assess the depth of their knowledge of God's Word and the authenticity of their character and actions. True spiritual authority and effectiveness come from a genuine understanding of divine truth and a life that openly demonstrates God's presence and power, rather than mere human charm or rhetorical skill. This verse encourages us to value integrity and truth above superficial presentation.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Ephesians 3:4

    Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)

  • 1 Corinthians 1:17

    ¶ For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.

  • 2 Corinthians 4:2

    But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man's conscience in the sight of God.

  • 1 Corinthians 1:21

    For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.

  • 2 Peter 3:15

    And account [that] the longsuffering of our Lord [is] salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;

  • 2 Peter 3:16

    As also in all [his] epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as [they do] also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.

  • 1 Corinthians 2:13

    Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.

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