He Who Boasts Is to Boast in the Lord (2 Corinthians 9-10)

2 Corinthians 11

This is a recap of our Bible Caller Club meeting on May 28th, 2026 over this passage. If you want to join the club and attend future meetings and study with us via phone, click here.

Context:

In our study on May 28, 2026, we covered two chapters. In the previous section of the book, Paul had been encouraging the Corinthian church. In these chapters, he continues that encouragement regarding a financial contribution they promised, but then he transitions to defending his ministry against criticisms from within the church.

1. What’s happening in this passage?

In our study tonight, we took a bird's-eye view of two chapters, 2 Corinthians 9 and 10. The first chapter is an encouragement for the Corinthian church to follow through on a promise they made a year earlier to collect money for needy saints (9:1-2). As one member pointed out, the Corinthians' initial zeal had inspired others, but their failure to act made their original boast "empty" (9:3). Paul urges them to give, not as a "begrudging obligation," but as a cheerful blessing, assuring them that God will provide for them abundantly in return (9:5-8). He explains that their generosity will prove their character and result in many giving thanks to God (9:13-15). Then, in chapter 10, Paul's tone shifts. He begins to defend his apostolic authority against those in Corinth who were criticizing him. They claimed he was bold in his letters but weak and unimpressive in person (10:10). Paul counters this by stating that his authority and power come not from the flesh but from God, and they are powerful enough to tear down the "strongholds" of false arguments and pride (10:4-5). He warns them against comparing themselves to each other by worldly standards, reminding them that the only approval that matters comes from the Lord (10:12, 18).

2. What is God revealing about humanity?

Our discussion highlighted several truths about human nature found in these chapters. We noted that people, like the Corinthians, can have good intentions but often fail to follow through, and without spiritual growth, we can easily go backward (9:2). A key takeaway was that our "actions speak louder than words." The Corinthians' follow-through on their promise would be the ultimate proof of their obedience and would cause others to glorify God (9:13). We also discussed our human tendency to build up "strongholds" of self-reliance and pride that prevent us from submitting to God and His servants (10:4). Several members mentioned our habit of boasting in ourselves and measuring ourselves against other people—judging by outward appearances and worldly standards. Paul calls this being "without understanding" (10:12). We also tend to give grudgingly or out of a sense of compulsion, which is the opposite of the cheerful giving that God desires (9:7).

3. What is God revealing about Himself?

In our study, we saw a clear picture of God's character. One of the most prominent themes was God’s abundant and "surpassing grace" (9:8, 14). We discussed how God promises to provide for us and enrich us when we give generously and sacrificially. As one person said, God gives us so much more than we could ever give up. Another member pointed out that God is always giving us room for growth; He is patient and doesn't give up on us, even when we fall short, as the Corinthians did. This passage also makes it clear that God "loves a cheerful giver" (9:7); He desires our hearts to be in the right place, giving freely rather than from obligation. Finally, we were reminded that God is the only one worthy of our boasts (10:17). He is the one who ultimately approves and commends us, not ourselves or other people (10:18).

4. How should our lives change?

This study provided us with several direct applications for our lives. First and foremost, we must be people who follow through on our commitments. We, like the Corinthians, can get distracted, but we need to finish what we start for God's glory. Secondly, we should be generous, giving cheerfully from a pure heart and trusting that God will take care of our needs (9:7-8). It was also pointed out that even when we fail, it is never too late to start again because of God's surpassing grace. Another member powerfully summarized that we need to stop boasting in ourselves and judging others by outward appearances. Instead of comparing ourselves with others, which Paul says is "without understanding," we should focus only on what God thinks (10:12). Our focus should be on boasting in the Lord and using our gifts for His kingdom (10:17). Finally, we must live with an attitude of thankfulness for God's "indescribable gift" (9:15), letting that gratitude fuel our service and sacrifice.