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When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they show their ignorance.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/2_corinthians/10-12.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/5/47_2Co_10_12.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="2 Corinthians 10:12 - Paul's Apostolic Authority" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. 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When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise. <a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/10.htm">New Living Translation</a> Oh, don’t worry; we wouldn’t dare say that we are as wonderful as these other men who tell you how important they are! But they are only comparing themselves with each other, using themselves as the standard of measurement. How ignorant! <a href="/esv/2_corinthians/10.htm">English Standard Version</a> Not that we dare to classify or compare ourselves with some of those who are commending themselves. But when they measure themselves by one another and compare themselves with one another, they are without understanding. <a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/10.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they show their ignorance. <a href="/blb/2_corinthians/10.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For we dare not to classify or to compare ourselves with some commending themselves. But these, measuring themselves by themselves and comparing themselves with themselves, do not understand. <a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/10.htm">King James Bible</a> 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. <a href="/nkjv/2_corinthians/10.htm">New King James Version</a> For we dare not class ourselves or compare ourselves with those who commend themselves. But they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise. <a href="/nasb_/2_corinthians/10.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> For we do not presume to rank or compare ourselves with some of those who commend themselves; but when they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they have no understanding. <a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/10.htm">NASB 1995</a> For we are not bold to class or compare ourselves with some of those who commend themselves; but when they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are without understanding. <a href="/nasb77/2_corinthians/10.htm">NASB 1977 </a> For we are not bold to class or compare ourselves with some of those who commend themselves; but when they measure themselves by themselves, and compare themselves with themselves, they are without understanding. <a href="/lsb/2_corinthians/10.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> For we do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some of those who commend themselves, but when they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are without understanding. <a href="/amp/2_corinthians/10.htm">Amplified Bible</a> We do not have the audacity to put ourselves in the same class or compare ourselves with some who [supply testimonials to] commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they lack wisdom and behave like fools. <a href="/csb/2_corinthians/10.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> For we don’t dare classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. But in measuring themselves by themselves and comparing themselves to themselves, they lack understanding. <a href="/hcsb/2_corinthians/10.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> For we don&#8217t dare classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. But in measuring themselves by themselves and comparing themselves to themselves, they lack understanding. <a href="/asv/2_corinthians/10.htm">American Standard Version</a> For we are not bold to number or compare ourselves with certain of them that commend themselves: but they themselves, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves with themselves, are without understanding. <a href="/cev/2_corinthians/10.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> We won't dare compare ourselves with those who think so much of themselves. But they are foolish to compare themselves with themselves. <a href="/erv/2_corinthians/10.htm">English Revised Version</a> For we are not bold to number or compare ourselves with certain of them that commend themselves: but they themselves, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves with themselves, are without understanding. <a href="/gwt/2_corinthians/10.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> We wouldn't put ourselves in the same class with or compare ourselves to those who are bold enough to make their own recommendations. Certainly, when they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves to themselves, they show how foolish they are. <a href="/gnt/2_corinthians/10.htm">Good News Translation</a> Of course we would not dare classify ourselves or compare ourselves with those who rate themselves so highly. How stupid they are! They make up their own standards to measure themselves by, and they judge themselves by their own standards! <a href="/isv/2_corinthians/10.htm">International Standard Version</a> We would not dare put ourselves in the same class with, or compare ourselves to, those who recommend themselves. Whenever they measure themselves by their own standards or compare themselves among themselves, they show how foolish they are. <a href="/msb/2_corinthians/10.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they show their ignorance. <a href="/net/2_corinthians/10.htm">NET Bible</a> For we would not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some of those who recommend themselves. But when they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are without understanding. <a href="/nheb/2_corinthians/10.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> For we are not bold to number or compare ourselves with some of those who commend themselves. But they themselves, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves with themselves, are without understanding. <a href="/wbt/2_corinthians/10.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> 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. <a href="/wey/2_corinthians/10.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For we have not the 'courage' to rank ourselves among, or compare ourselves with, certain persons distinguished by their self-commendation. Yet they are not wise, measuring themselves, as they do, by one another and comparing themselves with one another. <a href="/web/2_corinthians/10.htm">World English Bible</a> For we are not bold to number or compare ourselves with some of those who commend themselves. But they themselves, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves with themselves, are without understanding. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/2_corinthians/10.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> For we do not make bold to rank or to compare ourselves with certain of those commending themselves, but they, measuring themselves among themselves, and comparing themselves with themselves, are not wise, <a href="/blb/2_corinthians/10.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For we dare not to classify or to compare ourselves with some commending themselves. But these, measuring themselves by themselves and comparing themselves with themselves, do not understand. <a href="/ylt/2_corinthians/10.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> For we do not make bold to rank or to compare ourselves with certain of those commending themselves, but they, among themselves measuring themselves, and comparing themselves with themselves, are not wise, <a href="/slt/2_corinthians/10.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> For we dare not appear or join ourselves to certain of them recommending themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and joining themselves to themselves, do not understand.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/2_corinthians/10.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> For we dare not match, or compare ourselves with some, that commend themselves; but we measure ourselves by ourselves, and compare ourselves with ourselves. <a href="/cpdv/2_corinthians/10.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> For we would not dare to interpose or compare ourselves with certain ones who commend themselves. But we measure ourselves by ourselves, and we compare ourselves with ourselves. <a href="/nabre/2_corinthians/10.htm">New American Bible</a> Not that we dare to class or compare ourselves with some of those who recommend themselves. But when they measure themselves by one another and compare themselves with one another, they are without understanding. <a href="/nrsvce/2_corinthians/10.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some of those who commend themselves. But when they measure themselves by one another, and compare themselves with one another, they do not show good sense.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/2_corinthians/10.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> For we dare not count or compare ourselves with those who are proud of themselves; for it is because they measure themselves by themselves that they do not understand. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/2_corinthians/10.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> For we dare not value or compare ourselves against those who flaunt themselves, for those among them who compare themselves are not wise.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/2_corinthians/10.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> For we do not presume to rank or compare ourselves with some of those who commend themselves: but they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves with themselves, have no understanding. <a href="/godbey/2_corinthians/10.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> For we are not bold to number or compare ourselves with certain ones of those who recommend themselves: but they, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves to themselves, are not wise. <a href="/haweis/2_corinthians/10.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> For we will not presume to put ourselves on the level, or compare ourselves with some who vaunt themselves; but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves with themselves, have no understanding. <a href="/mace/2_corinthians/10.htm">Mace New Testament</a> for I dare not rank or compare my self with some who vaunt themselves: but they making their self-conceit the only standard whereby to judge of themselves, show their want of judgment. <a href="/wey/2_corinthians/10.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> For we have not the 'courage' to rank ourselves among, or compare ourselves with, certain persons distinguished by their self-commendation. Yet they are not wise, measuring themselves, as they do, by one another and comparing themselves with one another. <a href="/worrell/2_corinthians/10.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> For we are not bold to judge ourselves among, or to compare ourselves with, some of those who commend themselves; but they measuring themselves among themselves, and comparing themselves with themselves, are without understanding. <a href="/worsley/2_corinthians/10.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> For we presume not to number, or compare ourselves with some who recommend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves with themselves, are void of understanding. <a href="/parallel/2_corinthians/10-12.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="audio" id="audio"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ddheG4hMg28?start=1806" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <div class="vheadingv">Context</div><a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/10.htm">Paul's Apostolic Authority</a> …11Such people should consider that what we are in our letters when absent, we will be in our actions when present. 12<a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason."></a> <a href="/greek/5111.htm" title="5111: tolmōmen (V-PIA-1P) -- To dare, endure, be bold, have courage, make up the mind. From tolma; to venture; by implication, to be courageous.">We do not dare</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: Ou (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not."></a> <a href="/greek/1469.htm" title="1469: enkrinai (V-ANA) -- To count among. From en and krino; to judge in, i.e. Count among.">to classify</a> <a href="/greek/2228.htm" title="2228: ē (Conj) -- Or, than. A primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than.">or</a> <a href="/greek/4793.htm" title="4793: synkrinai (V-ANA) -- From sun and krino; to judge of one thing in connection with another, i.e. Combine or collate.">compare</a> <a href="/greek/1438.htm" title="1438: heautous (RefPro-AM3P) -- Himself, herself, itself. ">ourselves with</a> <a href="/greek/5100.htm" title="5100: tisin (IPro-DMP) -- Any one, some one, a certain one or thing. An enclitic indefinite pronoun; some or any person or object.">some</a> <a href="/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tōn (Art-GMP) -- The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.">who</a> <a href="/greek/4921.htm" title="4921: synistanontōn (V-PPA-GMP) -- To place together, commend, prove, exhibit; instrans: I stand with; To be composed of, cohere. ">commend</a> <a href="/greek/1438.htm" title="1438: heautous (RefPro-AM3P) -- Himself, herself, itself. ">themselves.</a> <a href="/greek/235.htm" title="235: alla (Conj) -- But, except, however. Neuter plural of allos; properly, other things, i.e. contrariwise."></a> <a href="/greek/846.htm" title="846: autoi (PPro-NM3P) -- He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons.">When they</a> <a href="/greek/3354.htm" title="3354: metrountes (V-PPA-NMP) -- To measure (out), estimate. From metron; to measure; by implication, to admeasure.">measure</a> <a href="/greek/1438.htm" title="1438: heautous (RefPro-AM3P) -- Himself, herself, itself. ">themselves</a> <a href="/greek/1722.htm" title="1722: en (Prep) -- In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; in, at, on, by, etc.">by</a> <a href="/greek/1438.htm" title="1438: heautois (RefPro-DM3P) -- Himself, herself, itself. ">themselves</a> <a href="/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely. ">and</a> <a href="/greek/4793.htm" title="4793: synkrinontes (V-PPA-NMP) -- From sun and krino; to judge of one thing in connection with another, i.e. Combine or collate.">compare</a> <a href="/greek/1438.htm" title="1438: heautous (RefPro-AM3P) -- Himself, herself, itself. ">themselves</a> <a href="/greek/1438.htm" title="1438: heautois (RefPro-DM3P) -- Himself, herself, itself. ">with themselves,</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ou (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not."></a> <a href="/greek/4920.htm" title="4920: syniasin (V-PIA-3P) -- To consider, understand, perceive. From sun and hiemi; to put together, i.e. to comprehend; by implication, to act piously.">they show their ignorance.</a> 13We, however, will not boast beyond our limits, but only within the field of influence that God has assigned to us—a field that reaches even to you.…<div class="cred"><a href="//berean.bible">Berean Standard Bible</a> · <a href="//berean.bible/downloads.htm">Download</a></div> <a name="crossref" id="crossref"></a><div class="vheading">Cross References</div><div id="crf"><a href="/galatians/6-4.htm">Galatians 6:4</a> Each one should test his own work. Then he will have reason to boast in himself alone, and not in someone else. <a href="/romans/12-3.htm">Romans 12:3</a> For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but think of yourself with sober judgment, according to the measure of faith God has given you. <a href="/philippians/2-3.htm">Philippians 2:3</a> Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. <a href="/1_corinthians/4-3.htm">1 Corinthians 4:3-4</a> I care very little, however, if I am judged by you or by any human court. In fact, I do not even judge myself. / My conscience is clear, but that does not vindicate me. It is the Lord who judges me. <a href="/1_corinthians/3-18.htm">1 Corinthians 3:18</a> Let no one deceive himself. If any of you thinks he is wise in this age, he should become a fool, so that he may become wise. <a href="/proverbs/27-2.htm">Proverbs 27:2</a> Let another praise you, and not your own mouth—a stranger, and not your own lips. <a href="/luke/18-11.htm">Luke 18:11-12</a> The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed, ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other men—swindlers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. / I fast twice a week and pay tithes of all that I acquire.’ <a href="/matthew/23-12.htm">Matthew 23:12</a> For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. <a href="/james/4-6.htm">James 4:6</a> But He gives us more grace. This is why it says: “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” <a href="/1_peter/5-5.htm">1 Peter 5:5</a> Young men, in the same way, submit yourselves to your elders. And all of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” <a href="/proverbs/26-12.htm">Proverbs 26:12</a> Do you see a man who is wise in his own eyes? There is more hope for a fool than for him. <a href="/proverbs/16-18.htm">Proverbs 16:18</a> Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. <a href="/proverbs/25-27.htm">Proverbs 25:27</a> It is not good to eat too much honey or to search out one’s own glory. <a href="/isaiah/5-21.htm">Isaiah 5:21</a> Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes and clever in their own sight. <a href="/jeremiah/9-23.htm">Jeremiah 9:23-24</a> This is what the LORD says: “Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, nor the strong man in his strength, nor the wealthy man in his riches. / But let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD, who exercises loving devotion, justice and righteousness on the earth—for I delight in these things,” declares the LORD.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>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.we dare not.<a href="/2_corinthians/3-1.htm">2 Corinthians 3:1</a> Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, epistles of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you?<a href="/2_corinthians/5-12.htm">2 Corinthians 5:12</a> For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart.<a href="/job/12-2.htm">Job 12:2</a> No doubt but ye are the people, and wisdom shall die with you.are not wise.<a href="/proverbs/26-12.htm">Proverbs 26:12</a> Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? there is more hope of a fool than of him.<div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_corinthians/10-2.htm">Bold</a> <a href="/luke/1-8.htm">Class</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-4.htm">Commend</a> <a href="/luke/13-20.htm">Compare</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-8.htm">Comparing</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/4-17.htm">Comparison</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-2.htm">Courage</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/6-1.htm">Dare</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/4-10.htm">Distinguished</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-1.htm">Good</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-15.htm">Intelligent</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-14.htm">Making</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/9-12.htm">Measure</a> <a href="/matthew/5-15.htm">Measuring</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-6.htm">Ourselves</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-11.htm">Persons</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/15-23.htm">Rank</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/9-14.htm">Themselves</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-6.htm">Understanding</a> <a href="/romans/15-18.htm">Venture</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/10-23.htm">Wise</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/2_corinthians/11-21.htm">Bold</a> <a href="/1_chronicles/23-11.htm">Class</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-18.htm">Commend</a> <a href="/hebrews/12-3.htm">Compare</a> <a href="/galatians/6-4.htm">Comparing</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-21.htm">Comparison</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-11.htm">Courage</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-21.htm">Dare</a> <a href="/genesis/49-26.htm">Distinguished</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-14.htm">Good</a> <a href="/james/3-13.htm">Intelligent</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-16.htm">Making</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-13.htm">Measure</a> <a href="/revelation/11-1.htm">Measuring</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-13.htm">Ourselves</a> <a href="/galatians/1-7.htm">Persons</a> <a href="/james/1-21.htm">Rank</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-12.htm">Themselves</a> <a href="/ephesians/1-8.htm">Understanding</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/28-56.htm">Venture</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-19.htm">Wise</a><div class="vheading2">2 Corinthians 10</div>1. <a href="/2_corinthians/10-1.htm">Against the false apostles, who disgraced the weakness of his person and bodily presence, </a> 4. <a href="/2_corinthians/10-4.htm">he shows the spiritual might and authority with which he was armed against all adverse powers;</a> 7. <a href="/2_corinthians/10-7.htm">assuring those who at his coming he will be found as mighty in word as he is now in writing;</a> 12. <a href="/2_corinthians/10-12.htm">and encouraging them to reach out themselves beyond their compass.</a> </div></div><div id="mdd"><div align="center"><div class="bot2"><table align="center" width="100%"><tr><td><div align="center"> <script id="3d27ed63fc4348d5b062c4527ae09445"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=51ce25d5-1a8c-424a-8695-4bd48c750f35&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script> <script id="b817b7107f1d4a7997da1b3c33457e03"> (new Image()).src = 'https://capi.connatix.com/tr/si?token=cb0edd8b-b416-47eb-8c6d-3cc96561f7e8&cid=3a9f82d0-4344-4f8d-ac0c-e1a0eb43a405'; </script>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-2'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-0' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-3'> </div>  <div id='div-gpt-ad-1529103594582-1' style='max-width: 300px;'> </div>  <div align="center" id='div-gpt-ad-1531425649696-0'> </div> <ins class="adsbygoogle" style="display:inline-block;width:200px;height:200px" data-ad-client="ca-pub-3753401421161123" data-ad-slot="3592799687"></ins> <script> (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheading"><table width="100%"><tr><td width="99%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_corinthians/10.htm">Study Bible</a></td><td width="1%" valign="top"><a href="/study/2_corinthians/" title="Book Summary and Study">Book ◦</a> <a href="/study/chapters/2_corinthians/10.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. Paul addresses the issue of self-commendation, which was prevalent among certain leaders in the Corinthian church. These individuals sought to elevate their status by comparing themselves to others, a practice Paul rejects. In the Greco-Roman world, self-promotion was common, but Paul emphasizes humility and reliance on God's commendation rather than human approval. This reflects Jesus' teaching in <a href="/matthew/23-12.htm">Matthew 23:12</a>, where those who exalt themselves will be humbled. Paul’s approach aligns with the biblical principle of seeking God's approval over man's, as seen in <a href="/galatians/1-10.htm">Galatians 1:10</a>.When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, Paul criticizes the practice of using oneself as the standard for measurement, which leads to a skewed and self-serving perspective. This behavior reflects a lack of understanding of true spiritual maturity, which should be measured against the teachings of Christ and the standards set by God. The Corinthian church was influenced by cultural norms that valued status and comparison, but Paul calls for a different standard rooted in divine wisdom. This echoes the warning in <a href="/proverbs/26-12.htm">Proverbs 26:12</a> about the danger of being wise in one's own eyes.they show their ignorance. Paul concludes that those who engage in self-comparison demonstrate a lack of true understanding. Ignorance here refers to a spiritual blindness to the values of God's kingdom, which prioritize humility and service over self-promotion. This ignorance is contrasted with the wisdom that comes from God, as described in <a href="/james/3-13.htm">James 3:13-17</a>, which is pure, peace-loving, and considerate. Paul’s critique serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning one's life with the teachings of Christ, who exemplified humility and selflessness.<div class="vheading2">Persons / Places / Events</div>1. <a href="/topical/p/paul_the_apostle.htm">Paul the Apostle</a> The author of 2 Corinthians, addressing the church in Corinth. He is defending his ministry and authority against false apostles and critics. 2. <a href="/topical/c/corinth.htm">Corinth</a> A major city in ancient Greece, known for its wealth and immorality. The church in Corinth faced many challenges, including divisions and false teachings. 3. <a href="/topical/f/false_apostles.htm">False Apostles</a> Individuals in Corinth who were challenging Paul's authority and promoting themselves as superior leaders. 4. <a href="/topical/t/the_corinthian_church.htm">The Corinthian Church</a> The recipients of Paul's letter, struggling with issues of division, immorality, and false teachings. 5. <a href="/topical/s/self-commenders.htm">Self-Commenders</a> Those who boast about their own achievements and compare themselves to others to elevate their status.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/a/avoiding_self-comparison.htm">Avoiding Self-Comparison</a> Comparing ourselves to others can lead to pride or discouragement. Instead, we should focus on God's standards and our personal growth in Christ. <a href="/topical/t/the_danger_of_self-commendation.htm">The Danger of Self-Commendation</a> Boasting about our own achievements can reveal ignorance and a lack of understanding of true humility. We should seek God's approval rather than human praise. <a href="/topical/u/understanding_true_wisdom.htm">Understanding True Wisdom</a> True wisdom comes from God and is characterized by humility and a willingness to serve others. We should seek to grow in this wisdom rather than worldly accolades. <a href="/topical/t/the_importance_of_humility.htm">The Importance of Humility</a> Humility is a key Christian virtue. By recognizing our dependence on God, we can avoid the pitfalls of pride and self-promotion. <a href="/topical/f/focusing_on_god's_standards.htm">Focusing on God's Standards</a> Our ultimate goal should be to live according to God's standards, not the ever-changing standards of the world. This requires a constant renewal of our minds through Scripture.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_2_corinthians_10.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 2 Corinthians 10</a> <a href="/q/how_does_free_will_justify_evil.htm">Will you heed the warnings and remain faithful?</a> <a href="/q/what's_the_lord's_prayer's_meaning.htm">Is speaking in tongues required for Christian salvation?</a> <a href="/q/does_romans_4_6-8_conflict_with_judgment.htm">In Romans 4:6-8, does the idea of sin not being counted against believers conflict with other biblical passages that emphasize judgment and accountability?</a> <a href="/q/when_will_the_gift_of_tongues_end.htm">When will the gift of tongues end?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_corinthians/10.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(12) We dare not make ourselves of the number.--The last five words give the meaning of one Greek verb (enkrinai = to insert), the sound of which seems immediately to suggest the cognate verb (synkrinai = to compare). It is, of course, hard to convey the half-playful assonance in English. In "some that commend themselves" we note a reference to the charge of self-commending, which he has already noticed four times (<a href="/2_corinthians/3-1.htm" title="Do we begin again to commend ourselves? or need we, as some others, letters of commendation to you, or letters of commendation from you?">2Corinthians 3:1</a>; <a href="/2_corinthians/4-2.htm" title="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.">2Corinthians 4:2</a>; <a href="/2_corinthians/5-12.htm" title="For we commend not ourselves again to you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that you may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart.">2Corinthians 5:12</a>; <a href="/2_corinthians/7-11.htm" title="For behold this selfsame thing, that you sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it worked in you, yes, what clearing of yourselves, yes, what indignation, yes, what fear, yes, what vehement desire, yes, what zeal, yes, what revenge! In all things you have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.">2Corinthians 7:11</a>). Before he had defended himself against the charge; now he retorts it on his opponents. In "we dare" we trace a reference to the charge of cowardice, as in <a href="/2_corinthians/10-2.htm" title="But I beseech you, that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence, with which I think to be bold against some, which think of us as if we walked according to the flesh.">2Corinthians 10:2</a>.Measuring themselves by themselves.--The Greek MSS. present many various readings, some of the best MSS. omitting "are not wise, but," and some giving "not boasting" for "we will not boast;" and the Greek text, on any reading, presents a grammatical difficulty, arising from the fact that the last word may be either the third person plural of a verb in the indicative present, or a participle in the dative case, agreeing with "themselves." It is hardly necessary to discuss here the various possible constructions rising out of the combination of these phenomena. The English version gives, it is believed, substantially the meaning of the original. In the very act of saying, with a touch of irony, that he will not compare himself with the rival teachers, the Apostle virtually does compare himself. And the point he makes is that they instituted no such comparison. They were their own standards of excellence. Each was "amator sui sine rivali." Collectively, they formed what has been described in the language of modern literary history as a "Mutual Admiration Society." Of all such self-admiration--one might almost say, of all such autolatry--St. Paul declares, what the experience of all ages attests, that they who practise it "are not wise." They lose, as the Greek verb more definitely expresses it, all power of discernment. . . . <div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_corinthians/10.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 12. - We dare not. They are in this respect of self-praise much bolder than I. Make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves; literally, judge ourselves among or judge ourselves with. There is a play on the words, like the Latin, inferre or conferre, or the German, zurechnen oder gleichrechnen. That commend themselves. The verb rendered "commend" is that from which is derived "the commendatory letters" (<a href="/2_corinthians/3-1.htm">2 Corinthians 3:1</a>) at the arrogant and intrusive use of which he had glanced already. St. Paul is once more rebutting the charge of self-commendation (<a href="/2_corinthians/4-2.htm">2 Corinthians 4:2</a>; <a href="/2_corinthians/5-12.htm">2 Corinthians 5:12</a>; <a href="/2_corinthians/6-11.htm">2 Corinthians 6:11</a>). But they measuring themselves...are not wise. The clause is difficult; for (1) to compare ourselves with others in order to learn what we can and cannot do is usually accounted wise; (2) some manuscripts and editions, omitting οὐ συνιοῦσιν ἡμεῖς δὲ, render, "But we ourselves (αὐτοὶ), measuring ourselves by ourselves, and comparing ourselves with ourselves, will not boast above measure;" (3) some, for συνιοῦσιν (they are not wise) read συνίουσιν (with ourselves, who are not wise). The reading, however, of the Authorized Version is undoubtedly right, and most probably the rendering also. The meaning is that the little cliques of factious religionists, never looking outside their own narrow circles, became inflated with a sense of importance which would have been annihilated if they had looked at higher standards. Hence they thought themselves at liberty to intrude and lay down the law and usurp a claim to infallibility which there was nothing to justify. Such conduct is the reverse of wise. It is a mixture of selfishness, Pharisaism, and conceit, and there have been abundant examples of it among religious parties in all ages. St. Paul, on the other hand, keeps within his own measure, because he has learnt to adopt larger and loftier standards. <a href="/commentaries/2_corinthians/10-12.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>We do not dare τολμῶμεν (tolmōmen) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_5111.htm">Strong's 5111: </a> To dare, endure, be bold, have courage, make up the mind. From tolma; to venture; by implication, to be courageous. to classify ἐνκρῖναι (enkrinai) Verb - Aorist Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_1469.htm">Strong's 1469: </a> To count among. From en and krino; to judge in, i.e. Count among. or ἢ (ē) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2228.htm">Strong's 2228: </a> Or, than. A primary particle of distinction between two connected terms; disjunctive, or; comparative, than. compare συνκρῖναι (synkrinai) Verb - Aorist Infinitive Active <a href="/greek/strongs_4793.htm">Strong's 4793: </a> From sun and krino; to judge of one thing in connection with another, i.e. Combine or collate. ourselves [with] ἑαυτούς (heautous) Reflexive Pronoun - Accusative Masculine 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1438.htm">Strong's 1438: </a> Himself, herself, itself. some τισιν (tisin) Interrogative / Indefinite Pronoun - Dative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_5100.htm">Strong's 5100: </a> Any one, some one, a certain one or thing. An enclitic indefinite pronoun; some or any person or object. who τῶν (tōn) Article - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3588.htm">Strong's 3588: </a> The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the. commend συνιστανόντων (synistanontōn) Verb - Present Participle Active - Genitive Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4921.htm">Strong's 4921: </a> To place together, commend, prove, exhibit; instrans: I stand with; To be composed of, cohere. themselves. ἑαυτοὺς (heautous) Reflexive Pronoun - Accusative Masculine 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1438.htm">Strong's 1438: </a> Himself, herself, itself. [When] they αὐτοὶ (autoi) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Nominative Masculine 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_846.htm">Strong's 846: </a> He, she, it, they, them, same. From the particle au; the reflexive pronoun self, used of the third person, and of the other persons. measure μετροῦντες (metrountes) Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_3354.htm">Strong's 3354: </a> To measure (out), estimate. From metron; to measure; by implication, to admeasure. themselves ἑαυτοὺς (heautous) Reflexive Pronoun - Accusative Masculine 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1438.htm">Strong's 1438: </a> Himself, herself, itself. by ἐν (en) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1722.htm">Strong's 1722: </a> In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc. themselves ἑαυτοῖς (heautois) Reflexive Pronoun - Dative Masculine 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1438.htm">Strong's 1438: </a> Himself, herself, itself. and καὶ (kai) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_2532.htm">Strong's 2532: </a> And, even, also, namely. compare συνκρίνοντες (synkrinontes) Verb - Present Participle Active - Nominative Masculine Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4793.htm">Strong's 4793: </a> From sun and krino; to judge of one thing in connection with another, i.e. Combine or collate. themselves ἑαυτοὺς (heautous) Reflexive Pronoun - Accusative Masculine 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1438.htm">Strong's 1438: </a> Himself, herself, itself. with themselves, ἑαυτοῖς (heautois) Reflexive Pronoun - Dative Masculine 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1438.htm">Strong's 1438: </a> Himself, herself, itself. they show their ignorance. συνιᾶσιν (syniasin) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_4920.htm">Strong's 4920: </a> To consider, understand, perceive. From sun and hiemi; to put together, i.e. to comprehend; by implication, to act piously. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/10-12.htm">2 Corinthians 10:12 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/10-12.htm">2 Corinthians 10:12 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/2_corinthians/10-12.htm">2 Corinthians 10:12 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/10-12.htm">2 Corinthians 10:12 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/10-12.htm">2 Corinthians 10:12 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/2_corinthians/10-12.htm">2 Corinthians 10:12 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_corinthians/10-12.htm">2 Corinthians 10:12 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_corinthians/10-12.htm">2 Corinthians 10:12 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/2_corinthians/10-12.htm">2 Corinthians 10:12 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/2_corinthians/10-12.htm">2 Corinthians 10:12 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-12.htm">NT Letters: 2 Corinthians 10:12 For we are not bold to number (2 Cor. 2C iiC 2Cor ii cor iicor) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_corinthians/10-11.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Corinthians 10:11"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 10:11" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_corinthians/10-13.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Corinthians 10:13"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 10:13" /></a></div><div id="botleft"><a href="#" onmouseover='botleft.src="/botleftgif.png"' onmouseout='botleft.src="/botleft.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botleft.png" name="botleft" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="botright"><a href="#" onmouseover='botright.src="/botrightgif.png"' onmouseout='botright.src="/botright.png"' title="Top of Page"><img src="/botright.png" name="botright" border="0" alt="Top of Page" /></a></div><div id="bot"><iframe width="100%" height="1500" scrolling="no" src="/botmenubhnew2.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></div></td></tr></table></div></body></html>