2 Corinthians 12:11-18

Continuation of the Defence

11. I am become a fool in glorying Or perhaps, with some, HaveI become a fool? The words in gloryingare not in the best MSS. and versions. Thus Wiclif, following the Vulgate, translates, I am made unwitti, ye constreineden me.

ye have compelled me Literally, ye compelled me, as Wiclif above. The word yeis emphatic. It was not mydesire, but yourconduct that led me to boast. See notes on ch. 11.

for I ought to have been commended of you See ch. 2 Corinthians 3:1 2 Corinthians 5:12, 2 Corinthians 10:12; 2 Corinthians 10:18. The word Iis emphatic. The reason is given in the next verse. They had had abundant evidences of his true Apostleship, and yet they needed that he should himself recal them to their minds.

the very chiefest apostles See note on ch. 2 Corinthians 11:5.

though I be nothing Cf. 1 Corinthians 15:8-10. Chrysostom connects these words with what follows, and the meaning certainly then comes nearer to the passage just cited from the First Epistle. The Apostle arrogates no greatness to himself, but nevertheless that mighty deeds had been wrought by his means was undeniable.