Verse 12
For we are not bold to number or compare ourselves with certain of them that commend themselves: but they themselves, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves with themselves, are without understanding.
The dramatically repeated plurals in this verse compel the understanding of several false apostles, rather than some special "ringleader." As Farrar pointed out, this verse ties in with what Paul had already written "in 2Cor. 3:1,2 Corinthians 4:12."[12]
"The value of a comparison depends on the standard";[13] and, as for the standard itself, in this case, and for them that used it, Paul had a single estimate. They were "without understanding"!
[12] Ibid.
[13] John William Russell, Compact Commentary on the New Testament (Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker Book Rouse, 1964), p. 452.
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