BETHEL SUNDAY SCHOOL 26 SEPT 2021
Text: 2 Corinthians 11:16 – 21

THE FOLLY OF BOASTING
(2 Corinthians 11:17 – 18)

1. To Paul it is foolish to boast of self

2. The problem was the Corinthian Church saw the opposite as true!

a. They think it was wise to boast!

b. They had a high regard for people who boast of themselves!

c. They were drawn to the false apostles who boasted of themselves!

d. There were many who like to boast of themselves

e. They felt confident in their boasting

PAUL NEEDED TO BE VERY CLEAR

1. He is not a fool! (2 Corinthians 11:16a)

a. To boast of himself

b. To stoop to the level of the false apostles and deceitful workers

2. Then why he is boasting if he was against it? (2 Corinthians 11:16b)

a. That the Corinthians would receive him!
Since they would receive such people gladly!

b. That they would at least listen to him!
(Some sarcasm here)

3. Putting up with fools gladly

a. How the Corinthians could put up with these arrogant people bewilders Paul!

b. They gladly accepted these so-called “apostles” who were arrogant and boastful!

c. The Corinthians see themselves as wise and discerning people!



VERY DEEP CONCERNS EXPRESSED
(2 Corinthians 11:20)

1. The problem was more than boasting with words

2. They were arrogant in the way they treated people!

3. The Corinthians put up with such a person:

a. Who brings people into bondage and control them

b. Who is vicious and nasty (Devours you)

c. Who takes from them

d. Who exalts himself and put others down

e. Who strikes them in the face (Abusive)

4. Such a person was regarded as strong and bold man! (2 Corinthians 11:21)

a. If this was the case, then Paul says that to his shame that he is too weak to be like them!

b. Paul declares that he is bold too

c. But Paul feels foolish to even have to say this!

CHALLENGES AND APPLICATION

1. To not be afraid to read about difficult passages like this

2. To determine to cultivate our faith even more!

3. To bear good spiritual fruits!