2 Corinthians 10:18

For not he that commendeth himself is approved, but whom the Lord commendeth.

2 Corinthians 10:18 (KJV)

Context

Paul writes this verse while defending his apostolic authority against false apostles in Corinth who promoted themselves and sought human recognition. The preceding verse, 2 Corinthians 10:17, quotes Jeremiah 9:24, establishing the true rule of boasting: “But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.” Verse 18 then grounds that rule: because self-commendation is not approved, but the Lord’s commendation is.

Meaning

The Greek word translated “approved” (dokimos) means tested, tried, and found genuine, as opposed to mere outward appearance. The verse teaches that a person is not judged by the estimate they place on themselves, but by the estimate God forms and expresses. Self-commendation involves ascribing to oneself what does not belong to one, boasting of gifts one does not have, or claiming service that is the fruit of others’ labor. Such self-promotion is ultimately self-flattery and self-deceit. God is the one who passes judgment, and His judgment is according to His estimate of character, not according to one’s own. If the Lord approves, that approval is what matters; if He does not, all empty boasting—whether of wealth, eloquence, learning, or earthly honors—is vain.

Biblical connections

The principle of divine approval over self-commendation appears elsewhere in Scripture. In Proverbs 27:2, the wise man is told, “Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips.” Paul’s words also echo the Lord’s teaching in John 5:44, where Jesus asks how believers can believe who receive glory from one another and do not seek the glory that comes from the only God. These passages reinforce the same truth: human praise is fleeting and unreliable, but God’s approval is enduring and true.

Application

Believers should strive to approve themselves to God rather than praise themselves, letting their works and lives speak rather than their lips. This applies to all disciples, not only to those in ministry. The verse is a warning against the pride of self-promotion and a call to seek God’s approval as the only approval that ultimately counts. In daily life, this means serving faithfully without needing to draw attention to one’s own achievements, and trusting that God sees and rewards what is done in sincerity.

Reflection

Consider your own habits of self-commendation. Do you find yourself seeking the praise of others more than the approval of God? Let this verse redirect your heart toward the only commendation that truly matters—the commendation of the Lord, who sees all and judges rightly.