2 Corinthians 11:17 net — What I am saying with this boastful confidence I do not say the way the Lord would. Instead it is, as it were, foolishn…

NET Bible

"What I am saying with this boastful confidence I do not say the way the Lord would. Instead it is, as it were, foolishness."

— 2 Corinthians 11:17, NET Bible

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2 Corinthians 11:17 in Other Translations

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2 Corinthians 11 — Context

14

And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light.

15

Therefore it is not surprising his servants also disguise themselves as servants of righteousness, whose end will correspond to their actions.

16

Paul’s Sufferings for Christ I say again, let no one think that I am a fool. But if you do, then at least accept me as a fool, so that I too may boast a little.

17

What I am saying with this boastful confidence I do not say the way the Lord would. Instead it is, as it were, foolishness.

18

Since many are boasting according to human standards, I too will boast.

19

For since you are so wise, you put up with fools gladly.

20

For you put up with it if someone makes slaves of you, if someone exploits you, if someone takes advantage of you, if someone behaves arrogantly toward you, if someone strikes you in the face.

2 Corinthians 11:17 — Frequently Asked Questions

7 questions
What does 2 Corinthians 11:17 say?
2 Corinthians 11:17 in the NET Bible reads: “What I am saying with this boastful confidence I do not say the way the Lord would. Instead it is, as it were, foolishness.”
Where is 2 Corinthians 11:17 in the Bible?
2 Corinthians 11:17 is found in the New Testament, in the book of 2 Corinthians, chapter 11, verse 17.
Who wrote 2 Corinthians?
2 Corinthians is traditionally attributed to Paul the Apostle. It was written c. AD 55–56.
What is the book of 2 Corinthians about?
Paul's most personal letter — a defense of his ministry against "false apostles" and a window into the suffering, comfort, weakness, and strength of a true servant of Christ. It contains some of the New Testament's most striking words on generosity, reconciliation, and the new creation.
What are the major themes of 2 Corinthians?
2 Corinthians explores themes including Ministry, Suffering, Comfort, Reconciliation, Generosity, New Creation. These themes shape the meaning and context of 2 Corinthians 11:17.
What translation should I read 2 Corinthians 11:17 in?
2 Corinthians 11:17 is available on GodsGoodBook in the King James Version (KJV), American Standard Version (ASV), World English Bible (WEB), NET Bible, Young's Literal Translation, Darby Bible, Douay-Rheims Bible, and the Bible in Basic English. Each translation reflects different translation philosophies — use the translation picker on this page to compare them, or browse our full translations directory.
How can I memorize 2 Corinthians 11:17?
2 Corinthians 11:17 reads (NET): “What I am saying with this boastful confidence I do not say the way the Lord would. Instead it is, as it were, foolishness.” Read it aloud, break it into short phrases, repeat each phrase three times before adding the next, then put the phrases together. Reading it in multiple translations (above) often helps the meaning settle.
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