King James Version

What Does 2 Corinthians 10:18 Mean?

2 Corinthians 10:18 in the King James Version says “For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.” — study this verse from 2 Corinthians chapter 10 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.”

2 Corinthians 10:18 · KJV

Context

16

To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man's line of things made ready to our hand. line: or, rule

17

But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.

18

For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.

Read 2 Corinthians 10 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth (οὐ γὰρ ὁ ἑαυτὸν συνιστάνων, ἐκεῖνός ἐστιν δόκιμος, ἀλλ' ὃν ὁ κύριος συνίστησιν)—Synistanōn (συνιστάνων, "commending") ties back to the self-commendation throughout the chapter (vv. 12, 13, 18). Dokimos (δόκιμος, "approved/tested") denotes what passes scrutiny—genuine versus counterfeit. Self-commendation proves nothing; only divine approval validates ministry.

Whom the Lord commendeth (ὃν ὁ κύριος συνίστησιν)—Christ's commendation manifests through effective gospel ministry, transformed lives, Spirit-empowered preaching, and Christlike character. Paul's "letters of recommendation" are the converted Corinthians themselves (3:2-3). Divine approval doesn't require human credentials—God's work speaks for itself. This principle will govern chapters 11-12: Paul's sufferings, visions, and weakness all demonstrate God's approving power, not human impressiveness.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Letters of recommendation were standard in the ancient world, establishing one's credentials and character. Paul's opponents likely brought impressive letters from Jerusalem or other churches. Paul refuses this game: God's commendation through gospel fruit matters, not human endorsements. The Jerusalem apostles recognized Paul's calling (Gal 2:7-9)—he needed no other credential.

Reflection Questions

  1. What human commendation are you seeking—praise, credentials, titles, recognition—that distracts from pursuing God's approval alone?
  2. How does God's commendation manifest in ministry—and how can you recognize counterfeit ministry that lacks divine approval despite human impressiveness?
  3. What does it reveal about your heart when you're more concerned with others' opinions than with God's evaluation of your faithfulness?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 13 words
οὐ1 of 13

“not”

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

γὰρ2 of 13

“For”

G1063

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

ὁ3 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἑαυτὸν4 of 13

“himself”

G1438

(him- her-, it-, them-, my-, thy-, our-, your-)self (selves), etc

συνίστησιν5 of 13

“commendeth”

G4921

to set together, i.e., (by implication) to introduce (favorably), or (figuratively) to exhibit; intransitively, to stand near, or (figuratively) to co

ἐκεῖνός6 of 13

“he”

G1565

that one (or (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed

ἐστιν7 of 13

“is”

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

δόκιμος8 of 13

“approved”

G1384

properly, acceptable (current after assayal), i.e., approved

ἀλλ'9 of 13

“but”

G235

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

ὃν10 of 13

“whom”

G3739

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

ὁ11 of 13
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

κύριος12 of 13

“the Lord”

G2962

supreme in authority, i.e., (as noun) controller; by implication, master (as a respectful title)

συνίστησιν13 of 13

“commendeth”

G4921

to set together, i.e., (by implication) to introduce (favorably), or (figuratively) to exhibit; intransitively, to stand near, or (figuratively) to co

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of 2 Corinthians. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

2 Corinthians 10:18 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to 2 Corinthians 10:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Proverbs 21:2Luke 16:15Romans 2:291 Corinthians 4:52 Corinthians 10:12John 12:43

Test Your Knowledge

2 Corinthians 10 QuizTest your knowledge of this chapter2 Corinthians Book QuizComprehensive quiz for the entire book

Continue Your Study

Read 2 Corinthians 10 with CommentaryAll 2 Corinthians ChaptersComplete 2 Corinthians QuizBible CharactersNave's Topical BibleAll Bible Quizzes