NT Text: 2 Corinthians 10:17
OT Source(s):
Source: Treasury of Scripture Knowledge
Reference Type: Direct Quotation
Connection Method(s): Analogy
Significance: Paul quotes Jeremiah 9:23-24 (also used in 1 Corinthians 1:31), making this a foundational principle across his Corinthian correspondence. Jeremiah's judgment context warns against boasting in wisdom, might, or riches - true boasting is knowing the Lord who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness. Paul applies this against "super-apostles" boasting in eloquence, credentials, and visions. Instead, Paul boasts in weaknesses (11:30; 12:5, 9), sufferings (11:23-29), and divine commission (10:13-16), radically subverting worldly standards. The quotation establishes that authentic ministry flows from knowing God, not self-promotion. Christ's power is perfected in apostolic weakness (12:9-10), demonstrating that only God's commendation matters (10:18).
NT Use Pattern: Proverbial — Let him who boasts boast in the Lord. Paul cites the same wisdom maxim a second time — its proverbial weight is the warrant.