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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 12:6 Even if I wanted to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be speaking the truth. But I refrain, so no one will credit me with more than he sees in me or hears from me,</title><link rel="canonical" href="https://biblehub.com/2_corinthians/12-6.htm" /><link rel="stylesheet" href="/new9.css" type="text/css" media="Screen" /><meta property="og:image" content="https://biblehub.com/visuals/15/47_2Co_12_06.jpg" /><meta property="og:title" content="2 Corinthians 12:6 - Paul's Thorn and God's Grace" /><meta property="og:site_name" content="Bible Hub" /><meta property="og:description" content="Even if I wanted to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be speaking the truth. But I refrain, so no one will credit me with more than he sees in me or hears from me," /><script type="application/javascript" src="https://scripts.webcontentassessor.com/scripts/8a2459b64f9cac8122fc7f2eac4409c8555fac9383016db59c4c26e3d5b8b157"></script><script src='https://qd.admetricspro.com/js/biblehub/biblehub-layout-loader.js'></script><script id='HyDgbd_1s' src='https://prebidads.revcatch.com/ads.js' type='text/javascript' async></script> <script src='https://app.protectsubrev.com/biblehub.js' type='text/javascript'></script></head><body><div id="fx"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx2"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="30" scrolling="no" src="/vmenus/2_corinthians/12-6.htm" align="left" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div><div id="blnk"></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable"><tr><td><div id="fx5"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" id="fx6"><tr><td><iframe width="100%" height="245" scrolling="no" src="/bmc/2_corinthians/12-6.htm" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table></div><div align="center"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" class="maintable3"><tr><td><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center" id="announce"><tr><td><div id="l1"><div id="breadcrumbs"><a href="/">Bible</a> > <a href="/2_corinthians/">2 Corinthians</a> > <a href="/2_corinthians/12.htm">Chapter 12</a> > Verse 6</div><div id="anc"><iframe src="/anc.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></div><div id="anc2"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/anc2.htm" width="100%" height="27" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></div><div id="ad1"><table width="100%" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><iframe src="/ad1.htm" width="100%" height="48" scrolling="no" frameborder="0"></iframe></td></tr></table></div></td></tr></table><div id="movebox2"><table border="0" align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tr><td><div id="topheading"><a href="/2_corinthians/12-5.htm" title="2 Corinthians 12:5">◄</a> 2 Corinthians 12:6 <a href="/2_corinthians/12-7.htm" title="2 Corinthians 12:7">►</a></div></tr></table></div><div align="center" class="maintable2"><table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" align="center"><tr><td><div id="topverse"> <a href="#study" class="clickchap2" title="Context and Study Bible"> Audio </a> <a href="#crossref" class="clickchap2" title="Cross References"> Crossref </a> <a href="#commentary" class="clickchap2" title="Commentary"> Comment </a> <a href="#lexicon" class="clickchap2" title="Lexicon"> Greek </a> </div><div id="leftbox"><div class="padleft"><div class="vheadingv">Verse<a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/12.htm" class="clickchap" style="color:#001320" title="Click any translation name for full chapter">  (Click for Chapter)</a></div><div id="par"><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/12.htm">New International Version</a> Even if I should choose to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be speaking the truth. But I refrain, so no one will think more of me than is warranted by what I do or say, <a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/12.htm">New Living Translation</a> If I wanted to boast, I would be no fool in doing so, because I would be telling the truth. But I won’t do it, because I don’t want anyone to give me credit beyond what they can see in my life or hear in my message, <a href="/esv/2_corinthians/12.htm">English Standard Version</a> though if I should wish to boast, I would not be a fool, for I would be speaking the truth; but I refrain from it, so that no one may think more of me than he sees in me or hears from me. <a href="/bsb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Berean Standard Bible</a> Even if I wanted to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be speaking the truth. But I refrain, so no one will credit me with more than he sees in me or hears from me, <a href="/blb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For if I should desire to boast, I will not be a fool, for I will be speaking the truth. But I refrain, lest anyone should credit to me more than what he sees in me, or anyone hears of me, <a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/12.htm">King James Bible</a> 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. <a href="/nkjv/2_corinthians/12.htm">New King James Version</a> For though I might desire to boast, I will not be a fool; for I will speak the truth. But I refrain, lest anyone should think of me above what he sees me to be or hears from me. <a href="/nasb_/2_corinthians/12.htm">New American Standard Bible</a> For if I do wish to boast I will not be foolish, for I will be speaking the truth; but I refrain from this, so that no one will credit me with more than he sees in me or hears from me. <a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/12.htm">NASB 1995</a> For if I do wish to boast I will not be foolish, for I will be speaking the truth; but I refrain from this, so that no one will credit me with more than he sees in me or hears from me. <a href="/nasb77/2_corinthians/12.htm">NASB 1977 </a> For if I do wish to boast I shall not be foolish, for I shall be speaking the truth; but I refrain from this, so that no one may credit me with more than he sees in me or hears from me. <a href="/lsb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Legacy Standard Bible </a> For if I do wish to boast I will not be foolish, for I will be speaking the truth; but I refrain from this, so that no one will consider me beyond what he sees in me or hears from me. <a href="/amp/2_corinthians/12.htm">Amplified Bible</a> If I wish to boast, I will not be foolish, because I will be speaking the truth. But I abstain [from it], so that no one will credit me with more than [is justified by what] he sees in me or hears from me. <a href="/csb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Christian Standard Bible</a> For if I want to boast, I wouldn’t be a fool, because I would be telling the truth. But I will spare you, so that no one can credit me with something beyond what he sees in me or hears from me, <a href="/hcsb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Holman Christian Standard Bible</a> For if I want to boast, I will not be a fool, because I will be telling the truth. But I will spare you, so that no one can credit me with something beyond what he sees in me or hears from me, <a href="/asv/2_corinthians/12.htm">American Standard Version</a> For if I should desire to glory, I shall not be foolish; for I shall speak the truth: but I forbear, lest any man should account of me above that which he seeth me to be, or heareth from me. <a href="/cev/2_corinthians/12.htm">Contemporary English Version</a> Yet even if I did brag, I would not be foolish. I would simply be speaking the truth. But I will try not to say too much. That way, none of you will think more highly of me than you should because of what you have seen me do and say. <a href="/erv/2_corinthians/12.htm">English Revised Version</a> For if I should desire to glory, I shall not be foolish; for I shall speak the truth: but I forbear, lest any man should account of me above that which he seeth me to be, or heareth from me. <a href="/gwt/2_corinthians/12.htm">GOD'S WORD® Translation</a> If I ever wanted to brag, I wouldn't be a fool. Instead, I would be telling the truth. But I'm going to spare you so that no one may think more of me than what he sees or hears about me, <a href="/gnt/2_corinthians/12.htm">Good News Translation</a> If I wanted to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be telling the truth. But I will not boast, because I do not want any of you to have a higher opinion of me than you have as a result of what you have seen me do and heard me say. <a href="/isv/2_corinthians/12.htm">International Standard Version</a> However, if I did want to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be telling the truth. But I am not going to do it in order to keep anyone from thinking more of me than what he sees and hears about me. <a href="/msb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Majority Standard Bible</a> Even if I wanted to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be speaking the truth. But I refrain, so no one will credit me with more than he sees in me or hears from me, <a href="/net/2_corinthians/12.htm">NET Bible</a> For even if I wish to boast, I will not be a fool, for I would be telling the truth, but I refrain from this so that no one may regard me beyond what he sees in me or what he hears from me, <a href="/nheb/2_corinthians/12.htm">New Heart English Bible</a> For if I would desire to boast, I will not be foolish; for I will speak the truth. But I refrain, so that no one may think more of me than that which he sees in me, or hears from me. <a href="/wbt/2_corinthians/12.htm">Webster's Bible Translation</a> 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 what he heareth from me. <a href="/wey/2_corinthians/12.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> If however I should choose to boast, I should not be a fool for so doing, for I should be speaking the truth. But I forbear, lest any one should be led to estimate me more highly than what his own eyes attest, or more highly than what he hears from my lips. <a href="/web/2_corinthians/12.htm">World English Bible</a> For if I would desire to boast, I will not be foolish; for I will speak the truth. But I refrain, so that no man may think more of me than that which he sees in me or hears from me. <div class="vheading2">Literal Translations</div><a href="/lsv/2_corinthians/12.htm">Literal Standard Version</a> for if I may wish to boast, I will not be a fool, for I will say truth; but I refrain, lest in regard to me anyone may think anything above what he sees me, or hears anything of me; <a href="/blb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Berean Literal Bible</a> For if I should desire to boast, I will not be a fool, for I will be speaking the truth. But I refrain, lest anyone should credit to me more than what he sees in me, or anyone hears of me, <a href="/ylt/2_corinthians/12.htm">Young's Literal Translation</a> for if I may wish to boast, I shall not be a fool, for truth I will say; but I forebear, lest any one in regard to me may think anything above what he doth see me, or doth hear anything of me; <a href="/slt/2_corinthians/12.htm">Smith's Literal Translation</a> For if I be willing to boast, I shall not be mad; for the truth will I say: and I spare, lest any reckon for me above what he sees me, or what he hears of me.<div class="vheading2">Catholic Translations</div><a href="/drb/2_corinthians/12.htm">Douay-Rheims Bible</a> For though I should have a mind to glory, I shall not be foolish; for I will say the truth. But I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth in me, or any thing he heareth from me. <a href="/cpdv/2_corinthians/12.htm">Catholic Public Domain Version</a> For even though I am willing to glory, I will not be foolish. But I will speak the truth. Yet I will do so sparingly, lest anyone may consider me to be anything more than what he sees in me, or anything more than what he hears from me. <a href="/nabre/2_corinthians/12.htm">New American Bible</a> Although if I should wish to boast, I would not be foolish, for I would be telling the truth. But I refrain, so that no one may think more of me than what he sees in me or hears from me <a href="/nrsvce/2_corinthians/12.htm">New Revised Standard Version</a> But if I wish to boast, I will not be a fool, for I will be speaking the truth. But I refrain from it, so that no one may think better of me than what is seen in me or heard from me,<div class="vheading2">Translations from Aramaic</div><a href="/lamsa/2_corinthians/12.htm">Lamsa Bible</a> But even if I would desire to boast, I shall not be a fool; for I will tell the truth: but now I refrain, lest any one should think more of me than what he sees me to be and what he hears from me. <a href="/aramaic-plain-english/2_corinthians/12.htm">Aramaic Bible in Plain English</a> For if I have wished to boast, I have not been misbehaving, for I speak the truth; but I abstain, lest a man think of me more than what he sees in me and hears from me.<div class="vheading2">NT Translations</div><a href="/anderson/2_corinthians/12.htm">Anderson New Testament</a> For though I should choose to boast, I would not be void of understanding: for I will speak the truth. But I forbear, lest any one should think of me more than what he sees me to be, or what he hears of me.<CM> <a href="/godbey/2_corinthians/12.htm">Godbey New Testament</a> For if I shall wish to glory, I will not be a fool; for I speak the truth: but I fear, lest some one may consider with reference to me above what he sees me, or hears from me. <a href="/haweis/2_corinthians/12.htm">Haweis New Testament</a> For though I should be disposed to boast, I shall not be a fool; for I shall speak truth: but I desist, lest any man think of me above what he seeth me to be, or what he heareth of me. <a href="/mace/2_corinthians/12.htm">Mace New Testament</a> tho' if I had a mind to glory, I might do it without vanity, for I should say nothing but what is true: but now I forbear, lest any man should ascribe more to me than my actions, or my preaching can justify. <a href="/wey/2_corinthians/12.htm">Weymouth New Testament</a> If however I should choose to boast, I should not be a fool for so doing, for I should be speaking the truth. But I forbear, lest any one should be led to estimate me more highly than what his own eyes attest, or more highly than what he hears from my lips. <a href="/worrell/2_corinthians/12.htm">Worrell New Testament</a> For, if I should desire to glory, I would not be foolish, for I shall be speaking truth; but I forbear, lest some one should think, in regard to me, above what he sees me to be, or hears from me. <a href="/worsley/2_corinthians/12.htm">Worsley New Testament</a> For though I should incline to boast, I shall not be a fool; for I should speak truth. But I forbear least any one should think of me above what he seeth me to be, or heareth from me. <a href="/parallel/2_corinthians/12-6.htm">Additional Translations ...</a></div></div></div><div id="centbox"><div class="padcent"><a name="study" id="study"></a><div class="vheadingv">Audio Bible</div><iframe width="100%" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ddheG4hMg28?start=2236" 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/12.htm">Paul's Thorn and God's Grace</a> …5I will boast about such a man, but I will not boast about myself, except in my weaknesses. 6<a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason.">Even</a> <a href="/greek/1437.htm" title="1437: ean (Conj) -- If. From ei and an; a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.">if</a> <a href="/greek/2309.htm" title="2309: thelēsō (V-ASA-1S) -- To will, wish, desire, be willing, intend, design. ">I wanted</a> <a href="/greek/2744.htm" title="2744: kauchēsasthai (V-ANM) -- To boast; I glory (exult) proudly. From some base akin to that of aucheo and euchomai; to vaunt.">to boast,</a> <a href="/greek/3756.htm" title="3756: ouk (Adv) -- No, not. Also ouk, and ouch a primary word; the absolute negative adverb; no or not."></a> <a href="/greek/1510.htm" title="1510: esomai (V-FIM-1S) -- I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist.">I would not be</a> <a href="/greek/878.htm" title="878: aphrōn (Adj-NMS) -- Senseless, foolish, inconsiderate. Properly, mindless, i.e. Stupid, ignorant, egotistic, rash, or unbelieving.">a fool,</a> <a href="/greek/1063.htm" title="1063: gar (Conj) -- For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason.">because</a> <a href="/greek/2046.htm" title="2046: erō (V-FIA-1S) -- Probably a fuller form of rheo; an alternate for epo in certain tenses; to utter, i.e. Speak or say.">I would be speaking</a> <a href="/greek/225.htm" title="225: alētheian (N-AFS) -- From alethes; truth.">the truth.</a> <a href="/greek/1161.htm" title="1161: de (Conj) -- A primary particle; but, and, etc.">But</a> <a href="/greek/5339.htm" title="5339: pheidomai (V-PIM/P-1S) -- To spare, abstain, forbear. Of uncertain affinity; to be chary of, i.e. to abstain or to treat leniently.">I refrain,</a> <a href="/greek/3361.htm" title="3361: mē (Adv) -- Not, lest. A primary particle of qualified negation; not, lest; also (whereas ou expects an affirmative one) whether.">so</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.">no one</a> <a href="/greek/3049.htm" title="3049: logisētai (V-ASM-3S) -- To reckon, count, charge with; reason, decide, conclude; think, suppose. ">will credit</a> <a href="/greek/1519.htm" title="1519: eis (Prep) -- A primary preposition; to or into, of place, time, or purpose; also in adverbial phrases."></a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: eme (PPro-A1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">me</a> <a href="/greek/5228.htm" title="5228: hyper (Prep) -- Gen: in behalf of; acc: above. ">with more than</a> <a href="/greek/3739.htm" title="3739: ho (RelPro-ANS) -- Who, which, what, that. "></a> <a href="/greek/991.htm" title="991: blepei (V-PIA-3S) -- (primarily physical), I look, see, perceive, discern. A primary verb; to look at.">he sees</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: me (PPro-A1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">in me</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/5100.htm" title="5100: ti (IPro-ANS) -- Any one, some one, a certain one or thing. An enclitic indefinite pronoun; some or any person or object."></a> <a href="/greek/191.htm" title="191: akouei (V-PIA-3S) -- To hear, listen, comprehend by hearing; pass: is heard, reported. A primary verb; to hear.">hears</a> <a href="/greek/1537.htm" title="1537: ex (Prep) -- From out, out from among, from, suggesting from the interior outwards. A primary preposition denoting origin, from, out.">from</a> <a href="/greek/1473.htm" title="1473: emou (PPro-G1S) -- I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I.">me,</a> 7or because of these surpassingly great revelations. So to keep me from becoming conceited, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me.…<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 3:4-7</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/6-14.htm">Galatians 6:14</a> But as for me, may I never boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. <a href="/1_corinthians/1-31.htm">1 Corinthians 1:31</a> Therefore, as it is written: “Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.” <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="/1_corinthians/4-6.htm">1 Corinthians 4:6-7</a> Brothers, I have applied these things to myself and Apollos for your benefit, so that you may learn from us not to go beyond what is written. Then you will not take pride in one man over another. / For who makes you so superior? What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not? <a href="/1_corinthians/13-4.htm">1 Corinthians 13:4</a> Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. <a href="/1_corinthians/9-16.htm">1 Corinthians 9:16</a> Yet when I preach the gospel, I have no reason to boast, because I am obligated to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel! <a href="/1_timothy/1-15.htm">1 Timothy 1:15-16</a> This is a trustworthy saying, worthy of full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the worst. / But for this very reason I was shown mercy, so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display His perfect patience as an example to those who would believe in Him for eternal life. <a href="/2_corinthians/10-17.htm">2 Corinthians 10:17-18</a> Rather, “Let him who boasts boast in the Lord.” / For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends. <a href="/1_peter/5-5.htm">1 Peter 5:5-6</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.” / Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, so that in due time He may exalt you. <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="/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="/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. <a href="/proverbs/16-18.htm">Proverbs 16:18</a> Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. <a href="/isaiah/42-8.htm">Isaiah 42:8</a> I am the LORD; that is My name! I will not yield My glory to another or My praise to idols.</div> <a name="tsk" id="tsk"><div class="vheading">Treasury of Scripture</div>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 sees me to be, or that he hears of me.I would.<a href="/2_corinthians/10-8.htm">2 Corinthians 10:8</a> For though I should boast somewhat more of our authority, which the Lord hath given us for edification, and not for your destruction, I should not be ashamed:<a href="/2_corinthians/11-16.htm">2 Corinthians 11:16</a> I say again, Let no man think me a fool; if otherwise, yet as a fool receive me, that I may boast myself a little.<a href="/1_corinthians/3-5.htm">1 Corinthians 3:5,9,10</a> Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? … I will.<a href="/2_corinthians/1-18.htm">2 Corinthians 1:18</a> But as God is true, our word toward you was not yea and nay.<a href="/2_corinthians/11-31.htm">2 Corinthians 11:31</a> The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not.<a href="/job/24-25.htm">Job 24:25</a> And if it be not so now, who will make me a liar, and make my speech nothing worth?above that.<a href="/2_corinthians/12-7.htm">2 Corinthians 12:7</a> And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.<a href="/2_corinthians/10-9.htm">2 Corinthians 10:9,10</a> That I may not seem as if I would terrify you by letters… <div class="vheading">Jump to Previous</div><a href="/2_corinthians/12-5.htm">Account</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-5.htm">Boast</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/1-28.htm">Choose</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-12.htm">Desire</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/11-29.htm">Estimate</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/8-21.htm">Eyes</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-3.htm">Fear</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-23.htm">Fool</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-21.htm">Foolish</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/9-6.htm">Forbear</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-5.htm">Glory</a> <a href="/john/18-37.htm">Heareth</a> <a href="/1_corinthians/14-2.htm">Hears</a> <a href="/romans/14-18.htm">Highly</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-21.htm">However</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-9.htm">Refrain</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-4.htm">Speak</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-2.htm">Speaking</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-16.htm">Think</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-10.htm">True.</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-31.htm">Truth</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/11-10.htm">Word</a><div class="vheading2">Jump to Next</div><a href="/2_corinthians/12-10.htm">Account</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-9.htm">Boast</a> <a href="/philippians/1-22.htm">Choose</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-14.htm">Desire</a> <a href="/1_timothy/5-24.htm">Estimate</a> <a href="/galatians/3-1.htm">Eyes</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-20.htm">Fear</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-11.htm">Fool</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-11.htm">Foolish</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-9.htm">Forbear</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-9.htm">Glory</a> <a href="/1_john/4-5.htm">Heareth</a> <a href="/1_john/4-5.htm">Hears</a> <a href="/philippians/2-9.htm">Highly</a> <a href="/galatians/3-12.htm">However</a> <a href="/ephesians/6-9.htm">Refrain</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-19.htm">Speak</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-3.htm">Speaking</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-19.htm">Think</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-12.htm">True.</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-8.htm">Truth</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/13-1.htm">Word</a><div class="vheading2">2 Corinthians 12</div>1. <a href="/2_corinthians/12-1.htm">For commending of his apostleship, though he might glory of his wonderful revelations,</a> 9. <a href="/2_corinthians/12-9.htm">yet he rather chooses to glory of his infirmities;</a> 11. <a href="/2_corinthians/12-11.htm">blaming the Corinthians for forcing him to this vain boasting.</a> 14. <a href="/2_corinthians/12-14.htm">He promises to come to them again; but yet altogether in the affection of a father;</a> 20. <a href="/2_corinthians/12-20.htm">although he fears he shall to his grief find many offenders, and public disorders there.</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> <script type="text/javascript"> </script> <script type="text/javascript" src="//pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js"> </script> </div> </td></tr></table></div></div></div><div id="combox"><div class="padcom"><a name="commentary" id="commentary"></a><div class="vheading"><a href="/study/2_corinthians/12.htm">Berean Study Bible</a></div>Even if I wanted to boast The phrase "wanted to boast" reflects the Greek word "καυχάομαι" (kauchaomai), which means to glory or to take pride in something. In the context of 2 Corinthians, Paul is addressing the issue of boasting, which was prevalent among the false apostles in Corinth. Paul acknowledges that he has reasons to boast, particularly about his spiritual experiences and revelations. However, he chooses not to, emphasizing humility and the importance of glorifying God rather than oneself. This sets a precedent for Christians to focus on God's work in their lives rather than their own achievements.I would not be a fool The term "fool" comes from the Greek "ἄφρων" (aphron), meaning senseless or unwise. In the Greco-Roman world, wisdom and rhetoric were highly valued, and boasting without substance was considered foolish. Paul contrasts himself with those who boast without merit, asserting that his potential boasting would be grounded in truth. This highlights the Christian virtue of wisdom, which is rooted in truth and humility, rather than in self-aggrandizement.because I would be speaking the truth "Truth" here is translated from the Greek "ἀλήθεια" (aletheia), which signifies reality or that which is genuine. Paul emphasizes that any boasting he might do would be based on factual experiences and divine revelations. This underscores the importance of truth in the Christian faith, where believers are called to live and speak truthfully, reflecting the character of God who is the ultimate truth.But I refrain The word "refrain" is derived from the Greek "φείδομαι" (pheidomai), meaning to spare or to hold back. Paul exercises self-control, choosing not to boast despite having legitimate reasons to do so. This act of restraint is a demonstration of the fruit of the Spirit, particularly self-control, and serves as a model for Christians to prioritize the edification of others over personal recognition.so no one will credit me The phrase "credit me" involves the Greek "λογίζομαι" (logizomai), which means to reckon or to consider. Paul is concerned that others might attribute to him more than is warranted. This reflects his desire to ensure that any recognition he receives is based on genuine observation rather than exaggerated claims. It teaches Christians the value of integrity and the importance of being perceived accurately by others.with more than he sees in me or hears from me This final phrase emphasizes the importance of authentic witness. Paul wants others to judge him based on what they observe and hear directly, not on inflated reports. This aligns with the biblical principle that one's life and testimony should be consistent and transparent. For Christians, it is a call to live lives that are open and honest, allowing others to see the work of God in them without the need for embellishment.<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/ellicott/2_corinthians/12.htm">Ellicott's Commentary for English Readers</a></div>(6) For though I would desire to glory . . . He had said in the preceding verse that he will glory only in his infirmities. He is about to lay bare to their gaze the greatest of all those infirmities. "If I should boast of that," he says, "I shall not be acting as a madman does" (the thought of insanity is throughout dominant in the words "fool" and "folly"), "for I will confine myself to a simple statement of fact."<div class="vheading2"><a href="/commentaries/pulpit/2_corinthians/12.htm">Pulpit Commentary</a></div>Verse 6. - I forbear; literally, I spare; i.e. I refrain from boasting. Should think of me; literally, that no man should estimate concerning me beyond what he sees me (to be), or hears at all from my own lips. If he were to tell them more of his revelations, he might encourage them to think more of him than he deserves or wishes. <a href="/commentaries/2_corinthians/12-6.htm">Parallel Commentaries ...</a> <a name="lexicon" id="lexicon"></a><div class="vheading">Greek</div>Even γὰρ (gar) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1063.htm">Strong's 1063: </a> For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason. if ἐὰν (ean) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1437.htm">Strong's 1437: </a> If. From ei and an; a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc. I wanted θελήσω (thelēsō) Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Active - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2309.htm">Strong's 2309: </a> To will, wish, desire, be willing, intend, design. to boast, καυχήσασθαι (kauchēsasthai) Verb - Aorist Infinitive Middle <a href="/greek/strongs_2744.htm">Strong's 2744: </a> To boast; I glory (exult) proudly. From some base akin to that of aucheo and euchomai; to vaunt. I would not be ἔσομαι (esomai) Verb - Future Indicative Middle - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1510.htm">Strong's 1510: </a> I am, exist. The first person singular present indicative; a prolonged form of a primary and defective verb; I exist. a fool, ἄφρων (aphrōn) Adjective - Nominative Masculine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_878.htm">Strong's 878: </a> Senseless, foolish, inconsiderate. Properly, mindless, i.e. Stupid, ignorant, egotistic, rash, or unbelieving. because γὰρ (gar) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1063.htm">Strong's 1063: </a> For. A primary particle; properly, assigning a reason. I would be speaking ἐρῶ (erō) Verb - Future Indicative Active - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_2046.htm">Strong's 2046: </a> Probably a fuller form of rheo; an alternate for epo in certain tenses; to utter, i.e. Speak or say. [the] truth. ἀλήθειαν (alētheian) Noun - Accusative Feminine Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_225.htm">Strong's 225: </a> From alethes; truth. But δέ (de) Conjunction <a href="/greek/strongs_1161.htm">Strong's 1161: </a> A primary particle; but, and, etc. I refrain, φείδομαι (pheidomai) Verb - Present Indicative Middle or Passive - 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_5339.htm">Strong's 5339: </a> To spare, abstain, forbear. Of uncertain affinity; to be chary of, i.e. to abstain or to treat leniently. [so] μή (mē) Adverb <a href="/greek/strongs_3361.htm">Strong's 3361: </a> Not, lest. A primary particle of qualified negation; not, lest; also (whereas ou expects an affirmative one) whether. [no one] 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. will credit λογίσηται (logisētai) Verb - Aorist Subjunctive Middle - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_3049.htm">Strong's 3049: </a> To reckon, count, charge with; reason, decide, conclude; think, suppose. me ἐμὲ (eme) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. with more than ὑπὲρ (hyper) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_5228.htm">Strong's 5228: </a> Gen: in behalf of; acc: above. he sees βλέπει (blepei) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_991.htm">Strong's 991: </a> (primarily physical), I look, see, perceive, discern. A primary verb; to look at. in me με (me) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Accusative 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. 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. hears ἀκούει (akouei) Verb - Present Indicative Active - 3rd Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_191.htm">Strong's 191: </a> To hear, listen, comprehend by hearing; pass: is heard, reported. A primary verb; to hear. from ἐξ (ex) Preposition <a href="/greek/strongs_1537.htm">Strong's 1537: </a> From out, out from among, from, suggesting from the interior outwards. A primary preposition denoting origin, from, out. me, ἐμοῦ (emou) Personal / Possessive Pronoun - Genitive 1st Person Singular <a href="/greek/strongs_1473.htm">Strong's 1473: </a> I, the first-person pronoun. A primary pronoun of the first person I. <div class="vheading">Links</div><a href="/niv/2_corinthians/12-6.htm">2 Corinthians 12:6 NIV</a> <a href="/nlt/2_corinthians/12-6.htm">2 Corinthians 12:6 NLT</a> <a href="/esv/2_corinthians/12-6.htm">2 Corinthians 12:6 ESV</a> <a href="/nasb/2_corinthians/12-6.htm">2 Corinthians 12:6 NASB</a> <a href="/kjv/2_corinthians/12-6.htm">2 Corinthians 12:6 KJV</a> <a href="//bibleapps.com/2_corinthians/12-6.htm">2 Corinthians 12:6 BibleApps.com</a> <a href="//bibliaparalela.com/2_corinthians/12-6.htm">2 Corinthians 12:6 Biblia Paralela</a> <a href="//holybible.com.cn/2_corinthians/12-6.htm">2 Corinthians 12:6 Chinese Bible</a> <a href="//saintebible.com/2_corinthians/12-6.htm">2 Corinthians 12:6 French Bible</a> <a href="/catholic/2_corinthians/12-6.htm">2 Corinthians 12:6 Catholic Bible</a> <a href="/2_corinthians/12-6.htm">NT Letters: 2 Corinthians 12:6 For if I would desire to boast (2 Cor. 2C iiC 2Cor ii cor iicor) </a></div></div></td></tr></table></div><div id="left"><a href="/2_corinthians/12-5.htm" onmouseover='lft.src="/leftgif.png"' onmouseout='lft.src="/left.png"' title="2 Corinthians 12:5"><img src="/left.png" name="lft" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 12:5" /></a></div><div id="right"><a href="/2_corinthians/12-7.htm" onmouseover='rght.src="/rightgif.png"' onmouseout='rght.src="/right.png"' title="2 Corinthians 12:7"><img src="/right.png" name="rght" border="0" alt="2 Corinthians 12:7" /></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>