2 Corinthians 10:15-18 (WEL) We are not bragging beyond God’s boundaries about other men’s diligent work, but having hope to greatly increase our sphere of influence among you, even as yours increases. 16 To preach the Good News in areas beyond yours, but not to brag about work done in another person’s sphere of activity. 17 Now the one who glories, let him glory in the Lord. [Jeremiah 9:24] 18 The one who brags about himself is not approved, only he whom the Lord approves.
V15 We are not bragging beyond God’s boundaries about other men’s diligent work, but having hope to greatly increase our sphere of influence among you, even as yours increases.
God has boundaries for us according to His character and His words (Bible). We are not to go beyond when we talk about ourselves and what we have accomplished. God’s boundaries are the boundaries of truth. If we speak of what we have done and what gifts God has given, it must be true and without any personal grandeur.
What others have done, we must give them credit for what they have done.
When the truth is spoken with a sincere attitude, then we are meeting God’s standard.
Paul’s wish is to have even greater ministry, blessings to others, and to glorify God.
He also wishes for the Corinthian believers to have a greater ministry.
V16 To preach the Good News in areas beyond yours, but not to brag about work done in another person’s sphere of activity.
Paul doesn’t want to brag about God’s work through him if another was doing the ministry.
This is a principle. Give everyone the credit for what they have done. Be fair, honest, and consistent.
V17 Now the one who glories, let him glory in the Lord. [Jeremiah 9:24]
Whatever, we must always be ready to glorify God in what we say and do in public or private.
The source of the quote is worth reading: Jeremiah 9:23-24 (EHV). This is what the LORD says. The wise man should not boast in his wisdom. The strong man should not boast in his strength, nor the rich man in his riches. 24 Instead, let those who boast boast about this: that they have understanding, and that they know me. They know that I am the LORD, who shows mercy, justice, and righteousness on earth, for I delight in these things, declares the LORD.
V18 The one who brags about himself is not approved, only he whom the Lord approves.
God does not approve of people bragging about something that God has commissioned, given, or done. All glory goes to God who gives the gifts and ministry. Compare Matthew 5:16 and 1 Corinthians 6:20.
We learn:
- To always speak the truth.
- To always give others their due and especially praise what God has done and is doing.
Questions:
- How honest are you about yourself?
- Are you consistent in giving God credit for what He has done?