What does 2 Corinthians 11:1 mean?

Explanation

2 Corinthians 11:1, with Paul appealing to the Corinthians to bear with him a little even as he engages in what he refers to as "folly." In this context, Paul's "folly" may refer to boasting about his credentials and accomplishments as an apostle.

He recognizes that boasting is generally foolish and contrary to the humility expected from followers of Christ, but he sees it as necessary to affirm his apostolic authority, which was being challenged by others who were misleading the Corinthians.

It is as if Paul is asking the Corinthians to indulge him as he feels compelled to recount his qualifications, since this boasting serves a greater purpose: defending the truth of his message and his legitimate role as an apostle.

Historical Context

The verse is part of the Second Letter to the Corinthians, which is a communication from Paul to the church in Corinth.

During this period, the early Christian community in Corinth faced many challenges, including false apostles who boasted of their own accomplishments to establish credibility.

These individuals criticized and questioned Paul's authority and teachings.

In response, Paul found it necessary to defend his position, not out of personal pride but to maintain the integrity of the message of the gospel he preached.

Theological Insights

In a theological sense, this verse reveals the tension between Paul's humility as a servant of Christ and the need to assert his authority for the sake of the Gospel.

Some theologians view Paul's actions as justifiable self-defense in the face of false teachings, showing that there are times when ministers must assert their authority to protect their flocks from deception.

Practical Applications

This verse can teach us about the balance between humility and asserting oneself.

It might encourage believers to tolerate what could be seen as folly if it serves a greater purpose, such as defending their faith or ensuring the integrity and purity of its teachings.

It also shows the importance of discernment; understanding when to indulge someone's seemingly foolish behavior and when it may be necessary for a higher good.

Cross-References

• 2 Corinthians 12:6: "For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me."
• 1 Corinthians 9:16: "For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!"
• Galatians 1:11-12: "But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man.

For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ."

Language Study

The key word in this verse is "folly" (Greek: ἀφροσύνη - aphrosyne), which means foolishness or senselessness.

Paul uses this term to describe his own action of boasting.

This word choice highlights the contrast between what Paul feels he must do (boast) and what he teaches (humility).

This tension is recognized and addressed by Paul's preemptive request for the Corinthians' patience and understanding.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the wider context of ancient Mediterranean culture, boasting by orators and leaders was common as a means of displaying one's credentials and winning the favor of listeners.

However, in Jewish and early Christian teachings, boasting was often looked down upon, as humility was a highly valued virtue. The tension between these cultural norms is evident in Paul's approach to defending his authority.

Scientific Perspectives

From a modern scientific viewpoint, discussions on self-promotion and its psychological motivations could be relevant.

Behavioral psychology explains that self-promotion could be a strategy to maintain social status and credibility, especially when one's position is challenged.

Paul's strategic self-promotion is a complex behavior aligning with his goal of protecting his reputation not for his benefit, but for the sake of the integrity of the gospel.

Commentaries

Experts and theologians offer various opinions on this verse.

Some suggest that Paul's "folly" is a form of irony, as he is willingly adopting a rhetorical posture he generally opposes to make a point.

Others see it as a reluctant yet necessary step to prevent the Corinthians from being drawn away from the true gospel.

Commentaries note that this self-defense highlights Paul’s pastoral concern for the spiritual wellbeing of the Corinthians and demonstrates the gravity of the situation that warranted such a defense.