Interviewer: Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Today we have the privilege of sitting down with the esteemed author of the Book of 2 Corinthians, believed to be the apostle Paul. Thank you for joining us, Paul.

Paul: Thank you for having me. It is a pleasure to be here.

Interviewer: Let’s dive right into it. In 2 Corinthians 10:17-18, you specifically mention, “But, ‘Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.’ For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.” Could you share a little about the context and motivation behind these verses?

Paul: Absolutely. At the time of writing, there were certain individuals in the Corinthian church who were opposing me and undermining my authority as an apostle. They boasted about their own achievements, wisdom, and skills, looking to gain approval and commendation from others.

Within the Corinthian culture, self-promotion and seeking honor from others was prevalent. It had started to influence some within the church, causing division and a focus on worldly standards rather than spiritual values. My aim with these verses was to redirect their attention to the true source of boasting and commendation, which is the Lord.

Interviewer: So, you were addressing the issue of boasting and self-promotion in the Corinthian church?

Paul: Indeed, I was. I wanted to remind the Corinthians, and any readers thereafter, that true commendation lies not in our own achievements, but in God’s approval. It is the Lord who uplifts, confirms, and commends us. It is only through Him that we find true worth and validation.

Interviewer: How did you go about expressing this message to the Corinthians?

Paul: I used a quotation from the book of Jeremiah, “Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.” This phrase highlights the importance of redirecting our focus to the One who deserves all the glory and honor. I hoped that by emphasizing the significance of boasting in the Lord, the Corinthians would understand that our worth and true commendation come from our relationship with Him.

Interviewer: That’s fascinating. One final question for you, Paul. What lasting message would you like readers to take away from these verses?

Paul: My main point was that we should find our worth, purpose, and commendation in the Lord alone. True success, significance, and validation do not come from human recognition or worldly achievements. Instead, we must humbly rely on the Lord’s commendation, seeking to magnify His grace, power, and love in our lives. Let our boasting be directed towards Him, who is the source of all that is good and praiseworthy.

Interviewer: Thank you, Paul, for sharing your insights on 2 Corinthians 10:17-18. It has been a pleasure speaking with you.

Paul: The pleasure is mine. Thank you for discussing these verses with me.