2 Corinthians 5:12

12 For we do not commend ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf that ye may have something to answer those who glory in appearance, and not in heart.

2 Corinthians 5:12 Meaning and Commentary

2 Corinthians 5:12

For we commend not ourselves again to you
We have no need to do so, being well known to you; nor do we intend it when we thus speak of ourselves, and of our ministrations:

but give you occasion to glory on our behalf;
suggest some things to you which you may make use of in our favour, for the vindicating of our characters and conduct:

that you may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance,
and not in heart;
by whom are meant the false apostles who gloried in an outward show, in their learning, eloquence, and popular applause they had acquired, and not in the sincerity of their hearts, and the testimony of a good conscience, things which the true apostles of Christ were most ambitious of.

2 Corinthians 5:12 In-Context

10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ that each one may receive according to that which they have done in the body, good or evil.

11 Therefore being certain of that terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God, and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.

12 For we do not commend ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf that ye may have something to answer those who glory in appearance, and not in heart.

13 For whether we are fools, it is unto God; or whether we are sane, it is for your cause.

14 For the charity of the Christ constrains us because we judge thus: that if one died for all, then all are dead: