16 Again I say, may no one think me to be a fool; and if otherwise, even as a fool receive me, that I also a little may boast. 17 That which I speak, I speak not according to the Lord, but as in foolishness, in this the confidence of boasting; 18 since many boast according to the flesh, I also will boast: 19 for gladly do ye bear with the fools—being wise, 20 for ye bear, if any one is bringing you under bondage, if any one doth devour, if any one doth take away, if any one doth exalt himself, if any one on the face doth smite you; 21 in reference to dishonour I speak, how that we were weak, and in whatever any one is bold—in foolishness I say 'it'—I also am bold.
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.