12 For we would not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some of those who recommend themselves. But when they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are without understanding. 13 But we will not boast beyond certain limits, but will confine our boasting according to the limits of the work to which God has appointed us, that reaches even as far as you. 14 For we were not overextending ourselves, as though we did not reach as far as you, because we were the first to reach as far as you with the gospel about Christ. 15 Nor do we boast beyond certain limits in the work done by others, but we hope that as your faith continues to grow, our work may be greatly expanded among you according to our limits, 16 so that we may preach the gospel in the regions that lie beyond you, and not boast of work already done in another person’s area. 17 But the one who boasts must boast in the Lord. 18 For it is not the person who commends himself who is approved, but the person the Lord commends.

REFLECTIONS

Written by Ken Wong

As humans, we are prone to compare ourselves to others. We compare our homes, cars, jobs and even church ministries. In this passage, Paul is responding to boastful teachers who had arrived in the church in Corinth and who were comparing themselves to Paul and commending themselves over him. But what does God say about this, and what can we do about it?

The first thing to see is that any measure of success that doesn't come from God is foolishness. A common problem with commending ourselves according to worldly measures is that it leads to pride. In ministry, pride can lead to both over-estimating our own abilities and not relying on God – and reliance on God is essential for fruitful service.

Paul's concern was not how other people viewed him but how to expand the gospel in the sphere that God had placed him. His focus was not on himself but on how to build others up in Christ. His reward was not in people praising him but in seeing the gospel go out through those he ministered to.

Paul sums this all up by encouraging the Corinthians to boast in the Lord only and to seek his approval. Ultimately God's approval is all that matters.

When we follow God rightly, we free ourselves from the tyranny of human comparisons, because we are all saved by God’s grace in Christ. Willingly accepting this enables us to serve freely without judgement and joyfully proclaim his name as we are called to.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ken is a member of our Fairfield Morning congregation.