18 Since many are boasting in the way the world does, I too will boast.
18 Seeing that many glory after the flesh, I will glory also.
18 Since many boast according to the flesh, I too will boast.
18 Oh, no, it's a bad habit I picked up from the three-ring preachers that are so popular these days.
18 Seeing that many boast according to the flesh, I also will boast.
18 And since others boast about their human achievements, I will, too.
21 For everyone looks out for their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.
21 For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's.
21 For they all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ.
21 Most people around here are looking out for themselves, with little concern for the things of Jesus.
21 For all seek their own, not the things which are of Christ Jesus.
21 All the others care only for themselves and not for what matters to Jesus Christ.
(Read Philippians 2:19-30)
It is best with us, when our duty becomes natural to us. Naturally, that is, sincerely, and not in pretence only; with a willing heart and upright views. We are apt to prefer our own credit, ease, and safety, before truth, holiness, and duty; but Timothy did not so. Paul desired liberty, not that he might take pleasure, but that he might do good. Epaphroditus was willing to go to the Philippians, that he might be comforted with those who had sorrowed for him when he was sick. It seems, his illness was caused by the work of God. The apostle urges them to love him the more on that account. It is doubly pleasant to have our mercies restored by God, after great danger of their removal; and this should make them more valued. What is given in answer to prayer, should be received with great thankfulness and joy.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on 2 Corinthians 11:18
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.