Bible Strands
2 Corinthians 11:30
If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — Paul addresses the Corinthian congregation while defending his apostolic authority against competing teachers who demand visible proof of leadership. He speaks this in the midst of his reluctant "fool's speech," directly following his declaration that he shares in the community's sufferings and grief.
The words — The verb καυχᾶσθαι (kauchasthai) translates literally as "to boast," while ἀσθενείας (astheneias) means "weaknesses." Paul binds these concepts with δεῖ (dei), indicating "it behooves" or "must," establishing that boasting in weakness is a necessary response to his circumstances.
The thread — The motif of boasting in weakness appears again in 2 Corinthians 12:5 and stands in direct contrast to the warnings against self-seeking glory in Proverbs 25:27 and Jeremiah 9:23. Paul consistently redirects the cultural practice of boasting away from human achievement and toward the reality of suffering and divine support.
Why it lands — The text requires readers to abandon the pursuit of human approval and instead recognize vulnerability as the legitimate ground of spiritual authority. It demands a practical reckoning with suffering rather than a defensive performance of strength.
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
If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities.
Cross-references
- 2 Corinthians 12:5 I will boast about such a man, but I will not boast about myself, except in my weaknesses.
- Proverbs 25:27 It is not good to eat too much honey or to search out one’s own glory.
- Jeremiah 9:23 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.
- 1 Corinthians 2:3 I came to you in weakness and fear, and with much trembling.
- Proverbs 27:2 Let another praise you, and not your own mouth—a stranger, and not your own lips.
- 2 Corinthians 11:16 I repeat: Let no one take me for a fool. But if you do, then receive me as a fool, so that I too may boast a little.
- 2 Corinthians 12:1 I must go on boasting. Although there is nothing to gain, I will go on to visions and revelations from the Lord.
- Colossians 1:24 Now I rejoice in my sufferings for you, and I fill up in my flesh what is lacking in regard to Christ’s afflictions for the sake of His body, which is the church.