16 Again I say , let no one think me foolish ; but if you do, receive me even as foolish , so that I also may boast a little . 17 What I am saying , I am not saying as the Lord would, but as in foolishness , in this confidence of boasting . 18 Since many boast according to the flesh , I will boast also . 19 For you, being so wise , tolerate the foolish gladly . 20 For you tolerate it if anyone enslaves you, anyone devours you, anyone takes advantage of you, anyone exalts himself, anyone hits you in the face . 21 To my shame I must say that we have been weak by comparison. But in whatever e respect anyone else is bold -I speak in foolishness -I am just as bold myself .
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 11:16-21
Commentary on 2 Corinthians 11:16-21
(Read 2 Corinthians 11:16-21)
It is the duty and practice of Christians to humble themselves, in obedience to the command and example of the Lord; yet prudence must direct in what it is needful to do things which we may do lawfully, even the speaking of what God has wrought for us, and in us, and by us. Doubtless here is reference to facts in which the character of the false apostles had been shown. It is astonishing to see how such men bring their followers into bondage, and how they take from them and insult them.