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<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" "//www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd"><html xmlns="//www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"><head><meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8" /><meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1" /><title>2 Corinthians 11:21 To my shame I concede that we were too weak for that! Speaking as a fool, however, I can match what anyone else dares to boast about.</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/2_corinthians/11-21.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/15/47_2Co_11_21.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="2 Corinthians 11:21 - Paul's Suffering and Service" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="To my shame I concede that we were too weak for that! 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Whatever anyone else dares to boast about—I am speaking as a fool—I also dare to boast about. <a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/11.htm">New Living Translation</a> I’m ashamed to say that we’ve been too “weak” to do that! But whatever they dare to boast about—I’m talking like a fool again—I dare to boast about it, too. <a href="/esv/2_corinthians/11.htm">English Standard Version</a> To my shame, I must say, we were too weak for that! But whatever anyone else dares to boast of—I am speaking as a fool—I also dare to boast of that. <a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/11.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> To my shame I concede that we were too weak for that! Speaking as a fool, however, I can match what anyone else dares to boast about. <a href="/blb/2_corinthians/11.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> I speak as to dishonor, as that we have been weak! But in whatever anyone might dare--I speak in foolishness--I also am daring. <a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/11.htm">King James Bible</a> I speak as concerning reproach, as though we had been weak. Howbeit whereinsoever any is bold, (I speak foolishly,) I am bold also. <a href="/nkjv/2_corinthians/11.htm">New King James Version</a> To our shame I say that we were too weak for that! But in whatever anyone is bold—I speak foolishly—I am bold also. <a href="/nasb_/2_corinthians/11.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> To my shame I must say that we have been weak by comparison. But in whatever respect anyone else is bold—I am speaking in foolishness—I too am bold. <a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/11.htm">NASB 1995</a> To my shame I must say that we have been weak by comparison. But in whatever respect anyone else is bold— I speak in foolishness— I am just as bold myself. <a href="/nasb77/2_corinthians/11.htm">NASB 1977 </a> To my shame I must say that we have been weak by comparison. But in whatever respect anyone else is bold (I speak in foolishness), I am just as bold myself. <a href="/lsb/2_corinthians/11.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> To my shame I must say that we have been weak by comparison. But in whatever respect anyone else is daring—I speak in foolishness—I am just as daring myself. <a href="/amp/2_corinthians/11.htm">Amplified Bible</a> To my shame, I must say, we have been too weak [in comparison to those pseudo-apostles who take advantage of you]. But in whatever anyone else dares to boast—I am speaking foolishly—I also dare to boast. <a href="/csb/2_corinthians/11.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> I say this to our shame: We have been too weak for that! But in whatever anyone dares to boast—I am talking foolishly—I also dare: <a href="/hcsb/2_corinthians/11.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> I say this to our shame: We have been weak. But in whatever anyone dares to boast—I am talking foolishly—I also dare: <a href="/asv/2_corinthians/11.htm">American Standard Version</a> I speak by way of disparagement, as though we had been weak. Yet whereinsoever any is bold (I speak in foolishness), I am bold also. <a href="/cev/2_corinthians/11.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> I am ashamed to say we are too weak to behave in such a way. If they can brag, so can I, but it is a foolish thing to do. <a href="/erv/2_corinthians/11.htm">English Revised Version</a> I speak by way of disparagement, as though we had been weak. Yet whereinsoever any is bold (I speak in foolishness), I am bold also. <a href="/gwt/2_corinthians/11.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> I'm ashamed to admit it, but Timothy and I don't have the strength to do those things to you. Whatever other people dare to brag about, I, like a fool, can also brag about. <a href="/gnt/2_corinthians/11.htm">Good News Translation</a> I am ashamed to admit that we were too timid to do those things! But if anyone dares to boast about something--I am talking like a fool--I will be just as daring. <a href="/isv/2_corinthians/11.htm">International Standard Version</a> I am ashamed to admit it, but we have been too weak for that. Whatever anyone else dares to claim—I am talking like a fool—I can claim it, too. <a href="/msb/2_corinthians/11.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> To my shame I concede that we were too weak for that! Speaking as a fool, however, I can match what anyone else dares to boast about. <a href="/net/2_corinthians/11.htm">NET Bible</a> (To my disgrace I must say that we were too weak for that!) But whatever anyone else dares to boast about (I am speaking foolishly), I also dare to boast about the same thing. <a href="/nheb/2_corinthians/11.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> I speak by way of disparagement, as though we had been weak. Yet however any is bold (I speak in foolishness), I am bold also. <a href="/wbt/2_corinthians/11.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> I speak as concerning reproach, as though we had been weak. But in whatever respect any is bold, (I speak foolishly) I am bold also. <a href="/wey/2_corinthians/11.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> I use the language of self-disparagement, as though I were admitting our own feebleness. Yet for whatever reason any one is 'courageous' --I speak in mere folly--I also am courageous. <a href="/web/2_corinthians/11.htm">World English Bible</a> To my shame, I speak as though we had been weak. Yet in whatever way anyone is bold (I speak in foolishness), I am bold also. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/2_corinthians/11.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> I speak in reference to dishonor, how that we were weak, and in whatever anyone is bold—in foolishness I say [it]—I also am bold. <a href="/blb/2_corinthians/11.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> I speak as to dishonor, as that we have been weak! But in whatever anyone might dare--I speak in foolishness--I also am daring. <a href="/ylt/2_corinthians/11.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> in reference to dishonour I speak, how that we were weak, and in whatever any one is bold -- in foolishness I say it -- I also am bold. <a href="/slt/2_corinthians/11.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> I speak according to dishonour, as that we were weak. And in what any dares, (I speak in rashness,) I dare also.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/2_corinthians/11.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> I speak according to dishonour, as if we had been weak in this part. Wherein if any man dare (I speak foolishly), I dare also. <a href="/cpdv/2_corinthians/11.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> I speak according to disgrace, as if we had been weak in this regard. In this matter, (I speak in foolishness) if anyone dares, I dare also. <a href="/nabre/2_corinthians/11.htm">New American Bible</a> To my shame I say that we were too weak! But what anyone dares to boast of (I am speaking in foolishness) I also dare. <a href="/nrsvce/2_corinthians/11.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> To my shame, I must say, we were too weak for that! But whatever anyone dares to boast of—I am speaking as a fool—I also dare to boast of that.<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/2_corinthians/11.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> I speak this as a reproach, as though we were weak. Now I speak foolishly; in whatsoever other men are bold, I venture also. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/2_corinthians/11.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> I speak as one in dishonor, as if we are poor through stupidity. I say that in all things that a man presumes, I also presume.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/2_corinthians/11.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> I speak of their reproaches, as if we were weak. In what ever matter any one is bold, (I speak foolishly,) I also am bold. <a href="/godbey/2_corinthians/11.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> I speak according to disparagement, as that we are weak; but in whatsoever any one is bold, (I speak it in folly,) I am bold also. <a href="/haweis/2_corinthians/11.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> I speak with reference to the reproach cast on me, as though we were feeble; but wherein any man is bold (I speak in foolishness), I am bold also. <a href="/mace/2_corinthians/11.htm">Mace New Testament</a> as if I was inferior to them, but whatever they pretend to, (I must be so vain) I pretend to the like. <a href="/wey/2_corinthians/11.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> I use the language of self-disparagement, as though I were admitting our own feebleness. Yet for whatever reason any one is 'courageous' --I speak in mere folly--I also am courageous. <a href="/worrell/2_corinthians/11.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> I speak by way of dishonor, as though we were weak; but in whatever anyone is bold (I speak in foolishness), I also am bold. <a href="/worsley/2_corinthians/11.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> I speak of their reproaches, as if we were weak: but whereinsoever any one may be confident (though I speak foolishly) I may be confident too. <a href="/parallel/2_corinthians/11-21.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=2065" 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/11.htm">Paul's Suffering and Service</a> …20In fact, you even put up with anyone who enslaves you or exploits you or takes advantage of you or exalts himself or strikes you in the face. 21<a href="/greek/2596.htm" title="2596: kata (Prep) -- A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined).">To</a> <a href="/greek/819.htm" title="819: atimian (N-AFS) -- Disgrace, dishonor; a dishonorable use. From atimos; infamy, i.e. comparative indignity, disgrace.">my shame</a> <a href="/greek/3004.htm" title="3004: legō (V-PIA-1S) -- (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. ">I concede</a> <a href="/greek/5613.htm" title="5613: hōs (Adv) -- Probably adverb of comparative from hos; which how, i.e. In that manner."></a> <a href="/greek/3754.htm" title="3754: hoti (Conj) -- Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because.">that</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: hēmeis (PPro-N1P) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">we</a> <a href="/greek/770.htm" title="770: ēsthenēkamen (V-RIA-1P) -- To be weak (physically: then morally), To be sick. From asthenes; to be feeble.">were too weak for that!</a> <a href="/greek/3004.htm" title="3004: legō (V-PIA-1S) -- (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. ">Speaking</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."></a> <a href="/greek/877.htm" title="877: aphrosynē (N-DFS) -- Want of sense, foolishness, impiety, wickedness. From aphron; senselessness, i.e. egotism; recklessness.">as a fool,</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: d’ (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">however,</a> <a href="/greek/2504.htm" title="2504: kagō (PPro-N1S) -- To also, I too, but I. From kai and ego; so also the dative case kamoi, and accusative case kame and I, me.">I can</a> <a href="/greek/5111.htm" title="5111: tolmō (V-PIA-1S) -- To dare, endure, be bold, have courage, make up the mind. From tolma; to venture; by implication, to be courageous.">match</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."></a> <a href="/greek/3739.htm" title="3739: hō (RelPro-DNS) -- Who, which, what, that. ">what</a> <a href="/greek/5100.htm" title="5100: tis (IPro-NMS) -- Any one, some one, a certain one or thing. An enclitic indefinite pronoun; some or any person or object.">anyone else</a> <a href="/greek/302.htm" title="302: an (Prtcl) -- A primary particle, denoting a supposition, wish, possibility or uncertainty."></a> <a href="/greek/5111.htm" title="5111: tolma (V-PSA-3S) -- To dare, endure, be bold, have courage, make up the mind. From tolma; to venture; by implication, to be courageous.">dares to boast about.</a> 22Are they Hebrews? So am I. Are they Israelites? So am I. Are they descendants of Abraham? So am I.…<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="/philippians/3-4.htm">Philippians 3:4-6</a> though I myself could have such confidence. If anyone else thinks he has grounds for confidence in the flesh, I have more: / circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin; a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; / as to zeal, persecuting the church; as to righteousness in the law, faultless. <a href="/galatians/1-13.htm">Galatians 1:13-14</a> For you have heard of my former way of life in Judaism, how severely I persecuted the church of God and tried to destroy it. / I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my contemporaries and was extremely zealous for the traditions of my fathers. <a href="/romans/11-1.htm">Romans 11:1</a> I ask then, did God reject His people? Certainly not! I am an Israelite myself, a descendant of Abraham, from the tribe of Benjamin. <a href="/acts/22-3.htm">Acts 22:3</a> “I am a Jew, born in Tarsus of Cilicia, but raised in this city. I was educated at the feet of Gamaliel in strict conformity to the law of our fathers. I was just as zealous for God as any of you are today. <a href="/acts/26-4.htm">Acts 26:4-5</a> Surely all the Jews know how I have lived from my earliest childhood among my own people, and also in Jerusalem. / They have known me for a long time and can testify, if they are willing, that I lived as a Pharisee, adhering to the strictest sect of our religion. <a href="/1_corinthians/9-1.htm">1 Corinthians 9:1-2</a> Am I not free? Am I not an apostle? Have I not seen Jesus our Lord? Are you yourselves not my workmanship in the Lord? / Even if I am not an apostle to others, surely I am to you. For you are the seal of my apostleship in the Lord. <a href="/1_corinthians/15-10.htm">1 Corinthians 15:10</a> But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not in vain. No, I worked harder than all of them—yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me. <a href="/galatians/2-15.htm">Galatians 2:15</a> We who are Jews by birth and not Gentile “sinners” <a href="/romans/9-3.htm">Romans 9:3-4</a> For I could wish that I myself were cursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my brothers, my own flesh and blood, / the people of Israel. Theirs is the adoption as sons; theirs the divine glory and the covenants; theirs the giving of the law, the temple worship, and the promises. <a href="/romans/15-18.htm">Romans 15:18-19</a> I will not presume to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me in leading the Gentiles to obedience by word and deed, / by the power of signs and wonders, and by the power of the Spirit of God. So from Jerusalem all the way around to Illyricum, I have fully proclaimed the gospel of Christ. <a href="/1_timothy/1-12.htm">1 Timothy 1:12-13</a> I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, that He considered me faithful and appointed me to service. / I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and a violent man; yet because I had acted in ignorance and unbelief, I was shown mercy. <a href="/2_corinthians/10-7.htm">2 Corinthians 10:7-8</a> You are looking at outward appearances. If anyone is confident that he belongs to Christ, he should remind himself that we belong to Christ just as much as he does. / For even if I boast somewhat excessively about the authority the Lord gave us for building you up rather than tearing you down, I will not be ashamed. <a href="/2_corinthians/12-11.htm">2 Corinthians 12:11</a> I have become a fool, but you drove me to it. In fact, you should have commended me, since I am in no way inferior to those “super-apostles,” even though I am nothing. <a href="/philippians/1-12.htm">Philippians 1:12-14</a> Now I want you to know, brothers, that my circumstances have actually served to advance the gospel. / As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. / And most of the brothers, confident in the Lord by my chains, now dare more greatly to speak the word without fear. <a href="/acts/21-39.htm">Acts 21:39</a> But Paul answered, “I am a Jew from Tarsus in Cilicia, a citizen of no ordinary city. Now I beg you to allow me to speak to the people.”</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>I speak as concerning reproach, as though we had been weak. However, when ever any is bold, (I speak foolishly,) I am bold also.as though.<a href="/2_corinthians/10-1.htm">2 Corinthians 10:1,2,10</a> Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence am base among you, but being absent am bold toward you: … <a href="/2_corinthians/13-10.htm">2 Corinthians 13:10</a> Therefore I write these things being absent, lest being present I should use sharpness, according to the power which the Lord hath given me to edification, and not to destruction.whereinsoever.<a href="/2_corinthians/11-22.htm">2 Corinthians 11:22-27</a> Are they Hebrews? so am I. Are they Israelites? so am I. Are they the seed of Abraham? so am I… <a href="/philippians/3-3.htm">Philippians 3:3-6</a> For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh… I speak.<a href="/2_corinthians/11-17.htm">2 Corinthians 11:17,23</a> That which I speak, I speak it not after the Lord, but as it were foolishly, in this confidence of boasting… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/romans/7-16.htm">Admit</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-18.htm">Boast</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-12.htm">Bold</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-12.htm">Comparison</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/16-13.htm">Courageous</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-12.htm">Dare</a> <a href="/lamentations/4-14.htm">Dares</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/6-8.htm">Dishonour</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-10.htm">Feeble</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/2-3.htm">Feebleness</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-17.htm">Folly</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-17.htm">Fool</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-19.htm">Foolish</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-17.htm">Foolishly</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-17.htm">Foolishness</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-17.htm">Forward</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/15-46.htm">Howbeit</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-13.htm">However</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/4-13.htm">Mere</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-14.htm">Ourselves</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-20.htm">Puts</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-8.htm">Reason</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-8.htm">Reproach</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-5.htm">Respect</a> <a href="/habakkuk/2-10.htm">Shaming</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-17.htm">Speak</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-6.htm">Speaking</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-17.htm">Talking</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-2.htm">Use</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-18.htm">Way</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/10-10.htm">Weak</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-9.htm">Whatever</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-12.htm">Wherein</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/1_timothy/5-19.htm">Admit</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-30.htm">Boast</a> <a href="/ephesians/3-12.htm">Bold</a> <a href="/genesis/32-10.htm">Comparison</a> <a href="/deuteronomy/31-6.htm">Courageous</a> <a href="/philippians/1-14.htm">Dare</a> <a href="/genesis/49-9.htm">Dares</a> <a href="/2_timothy/2-20.htm">Dishonour</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-29.htm">Feeble</a> <a href="/jeremiah/47-3.htm">Feebleness</a> <a href="/2_timothy/3-9.htm">Folly</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-23.htm">Fool</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-6.htm">Foolish</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-23.htm">Foolishly</a> <a href="/2_samuel/15-31.htm">Foolishness</a> <a href="/galatians/2-10.htm">Forward</a> <a href="/galatians/4-8.htm">Howbeit</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-6.htm">However</a> <a href="/ephesians/2-19.htm">Mere</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-18.htm">Ourselves</a> <a href="/galatians/6-7.htm">Puts</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-7.htm">Reason</a> <a href="/philippians/2-15.htm">Reproach</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-11.htm">Respect</a> <a href="/hebrews/6-6.htm">Shaming</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-23.htm">Speak</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-31.htm">Speaking</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-23.htm">Talking</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-10.htm">Use</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-11.htm">Way</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-29.htm">Weak</a> <a href="/galatians/2-6.htm">Whatever</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-13.htm">Wherein</a><div class="vheading2">2 Corinthians 11</div>1. <a href="/2_corinthians/11-1.htm">Out of his jealousy over the Corinthians, he enters into a forced commendation of himself,</a> 5. <a href="/2_corinthians/11-5.htm">of his equality with the chief apostles,</a> 7. <a href="/2_corinthians/11-7.htm">of his preaching the gospel to them freely, and without any charge to them;</a> 13. <a href="/2_corinthians/11-13.htm">showing that he was not inferior to those deceitful workers in any legal prerogative;</a> 23. <a href="/2_corinthians/11-23.htm">and in the service of Christ, and in all kinds of sufferings for his ministry, far superior.</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/11.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/11.htm" title="Chapter summary and Study">Chapter </a></tr></table></div>To my shame I concede that we were too weak for that! Paul expresses a sense of irony and sarcasm here. In the context of 2 Corinthians, Paul is addressing the criticisms and comparisons made by the so-called "super-apostles" who boasted of their credentials and achievements. Paul’s admission of "weakness" is a rhetorical device to highlight the true nature of Christian strength, which is found in humility and reliance on God (<a href="/2_corinthians/12-9.htm">2 Corinthians 12:9-10</a>). This phrase also reflects the cultural context of honor and shame in Greco-Roman society, where strength and power were highly valued. Paul turns this cultural expectation on its head by embracing what the world sees as weakness.Speaking as a fool, however, Paul uses the term "fool" to describe his boasting, which he considers foolishness. This is a deliberate contrast to the wisdom of the world, which values self-promotion and pride. In <a href="/1_corinthians/1-18.htm">1 Corinthians 1:18-25</a>, Paul discusses the foolishness of the cross, which is the power of God. By speaking as a fool, Paul aligns himself with the wisdom of God rather than the wisdom of the world. This also connects to the biblical theme of God using the weak and foolish things of the world to shame the wise (<a href="/1_corinthians/1-27.htm">1 Corinthians 1:27</a>).I can match what anyone else dares to boast about. Here, Paul asserts that he can match the boasts of the "super-apostles" if he chooses to engage in such folly. This statement is not an endorsement of boasting but rather a critique of the false apostles who rely on human credentials and achievements. Paul’s true boast is in his sufferings for Christ and his weaknesses, which demonstrate the power of God (<a href="/2_corinthians/11-23.htm">2 Corinthians 11:23-30</a>). This reflects the biblical principle that true strength and authority come from God, not human accomplishments. Paul’s life and ministry serve as a type of Christ, who, though He was in the form of God, took on the form of a servant and humbled Himself (<a href="/philippians/2-5.htm">Philippians 2:5-8</a>).<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, Paul is addressing the church in Corinth, defending his apostleship and contrasting his ministry with that of false apostles. 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 false teachings and divisions. 3. <a href="/topical/f/false_apostles.htm">False Apostles</a> Individuals who were misleading the Corinthian church, boasting of their credentials and undermining Paul's authority. 4. <a href="/topical/t/the_corinthian_church.htm">The Corinthian Church</a> The recipients of Paul's letter, struggling with issues of leadership, morality, and doctrinal purity. 5. <a href="/topical/b/boasting.htm">Boasting</a> A central theme in this passage, where Paul uses irony to highlight the foolishness of boasting in human achievements rather than in Christ.<div class="vheading2">Teaching Points</div><a href="/topical/t/the_folly_of_worldly_boasting.htm">The Folly of Worldly Boasting</a> Paul uses irony to show the foolishness of boasting in human achievements. As believers, our confidence should be in Christ alone. <a href="/topical/s/strength_in_weakness.htm">Strength in Weakness</a> Paul acknowledges his own weaknesses, which highlights the power of God working through him. This teaches us to rely on God's strength rather than our own. <a href="/topical/d/discernment_against_false_teachings.htm">Discernment Against False Teachings</a> The Corinthian church was swayed by false apostles. We must be vigilant and discerning, testing teachings against the truth of Scripture. <a href="/topical/h/humility_in_leadership.htm">Humility in Leadership</a> Paul models humility by admitting his weaknesses. Christian leaders should lead with humility, pointing others to Christ rather than themselves.<div class="vheading2">Lists and Questions</div><a href="/top10/lessons_from_2_corinthians_11.htm">Top 10 Lessons from 2 Corinthians 11</a> <a href="/q/why_does_paul_prioritize_faith_over_teachings.htm">Why does Paul focus on faith over Jesus' actual teachings?</a> <a href="/q/what_makes_someone_a_fake_christian.htm">What defines someone as a fake Christian?</a> <a href="/q/what_is_vicarious_atonement.htm">What is the concept of vicarious atonement?</a> <a href="/q/what's_narnia's_final_battle's_meaning.htm">What is the significance of Narnia's final battle?</a><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_corinthians/11.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(21) I speak as concerning reproach, as though we had been weak.--Better, I speak it as a matter of reproach to myself, as though we were weak. The irony becomes more intense than ever. He has named these acts of outrage, he says, as though by way of self-disparagement. "We" (the pronoun is strongly emphasised) "were too infirm to venture on such things." The taunt flung at his bodily infirmities is still present to his thoughts, and he assumes, in the bitterness of his irony, that it was through them he had been kept from like acts of self-asserting authority. Then he resumes his contrast, still dwelling on the offensive words, "folly" or "insanity," which had been used of him: "Yes, but on every ground of daring--I know you will see my insanity again in this--I have as much right to dare as they."<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_corinthians/11.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 21. - I steak as concerning reproach, as though we had been weak. The sense is uncertain, but if with the Revised Version we render it, "I speak by way of disparagement," the verse may be understood as an ironical admission that, if absence from these violent and self-assertive proceedings be a sign of weakness, he has been weak. He proceeds to correct the ironical admission in the next clause. The meaning can hardly be, "I admit the disgraces I have suffered" (comp. <a href="/2_corinthians/6-8.htm">2 Corinthians 6:8</a>), because he is speaking of the Corinthians, not of himself. I am bold also. If they derive their right to this audacious and overweening line of conduct from any privileges of theirs, there is not one of these privileges which I too may not claim. <a href="/commentaries/2_corinthians/11-21.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>To κατὰ (kata) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_2596.htm">Strong's 2596: </a> A primary particle; down, in varied relations (genitive, dative or accusative) with which it is joined). [my] shame ἀτιμίαν (atimian) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_819.htm">Strong's 819: </a> Disgrace, dishonor; a dishonorable use. From atimos; infamy, i.e. comparative indignity, disgrace. I concede λέγω (legō) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3004.htm">Strong's 3004: </a> (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. that ὅτι (hoti) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_3754.htm">Strong's 3754: </a> Neuter of hostis as conjunction; demonstrative, that; causative, because. we ἡμεῖς (hēmeis) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Nominative 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. were too weak [for that]! ἠσθενήκαμεν (ēsthenēkamen) Verb - Perfect Indicative Active - 1st Person Plural <a href="/greek/strongs_770.htm">Strong's 770: </a> To be weak (physically: then morally), To be sick. From asthenes; to be feeble. Speaking λέγω (legō) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3004.htm">Strong's 3004: </a> (a) I say, speak; I mean, mention, tell, (b) I call, name, especially in the pass., (c) I tell, command. as a fool, ἀφροσύνῃ (aphrosynē) Noun - Dative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_877.htm">Strong's 877: </a> Want of sense, foolishness, impiety, wickedness. From aphron; senselessness, i.e. egotism; recklessness. however, δ’ (d’) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. I can κἀγώ (kagō) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Nominative 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2504.htm">Strong's 2504: </a> To also, I too, but I. From kai and ego; so also the dative case kamoi, and accusative case kame and I, me. [match] τολμῶ (tolmō) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular <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. what ᾧ (hō) Personal / Relative Pronoun - Dative Neuter Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3739.htm">Strong's 3739: </a> Who, which, what, that. anyone else τις (tis) Interrogative / Indefinite Pronoun - Nominative Masculine Singular <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. dares [to boast about]. τολμᾷ (tolma) Verb - Present Subjunctive Active - 3rd Person Singular <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. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/11-21.htm">2 Corinthians 11:21 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/11-21.htm">2 Corinthians 11:21 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/2_corinthians/11-21.htm">2 Corinthians 11:21 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/11-21.htm">2 Corinthians 11:21 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/11-21.htm">2 Corinthians 11:21 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/2_corinthians/11-21.htm">2 Corinthians 11:21 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_corinthians/11-21.htm">2 Corinthians 11:21 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_corinthians/11-21.htm">2 Corinthians 11:21 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/2_corinthians/11-21.htm">2 Corinthians 11:21 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/2_corinthians/11-21.htm">2 Corinthians 11:21 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-21.htm">NT Letters: 2 Corinthians 11:21 I speak by way of disparagement as (2 Cor. 2C iiC 2Cor ii cor iicor) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_corinthians/11-20.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Corinthians 11:20"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 11:20" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_corinthians/11-22.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Corinthians 11:22"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 11:22" /></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>