Bible Strands
2 Corinthians 10:18
For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — Paul addresses the Corinthian believers to correct their reliance on human validation during a period of ministerial conflict. He speaks to a community comparing apostolic credentials to redirect their standard of approval.
The words — συνιστῶν (sunistōn) literally means "commending" or "introducing," and δόκιμος (dokimos) means "approved" or "tested after examination." The verse states that self-commendation yields no divine approval, but only the Lord's commendation counts.
The thread — This contrast between human self-justification and divine evaluation runs through Proverbs 21:2, Luke 16:15, and Romans 2:29. Each passage notes that human claims of righteousness are measured against God's inward assessment.
Why it lands — The text requires readers to stop measuring their worth by personal promotion and seek validation solely from God. It demands a practical shift in ambition from seeking human recognition to pursuing faithful obedience.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.
Cross-references
- Proverbs 21:2 All a man’s ways seem right to him, but the LORD weighs the heart.
- Luke 16:15 So He said to them, “You are the ones who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is prized among men is detestable before God.
- Romans 2:29 No, a man is a Jew because he is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a man’s praise does not come from men, but from God.
- 1 Corinthians 4:5 Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men’s hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God.
- 2 Corinthians 10:12 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.
- John 12:43 For they loved praise from men more than praise from God.
- Luke 18:10 “Two men went up to the temple to pray. One was a Pharisee and the other a tax collector.
- Proverbs 27:2 Let another praise you, and not your own mouth—a stranger, and not your own lips.
- John 5:42 but I know you, that you do not have the love of God within you.
- Romans 14:18 For whoever serves Christ in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men.