Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary 2 Corinthians 10:12

"For we are not bold to number or compare ourselves with certain of them that commend themselves: but they themselves, measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves with themselves, are without understanding." — 2 Corinthians 10:12 (ASV)

In one aspect of his conduct, Paul admits his timidity (cf. v.1). He lacked the boldness and temerity to compare himself with those who indulged in selfpraise. Writing ironically, he asserts that in their folly his opponents were establishing their own conduct as normative and then finding great satisfaction in always measuring up to the standard. The implication is clear. If the Corinthians try to assess Paul’s credentials against the artificial and subjective criteria established by his detractors, they will be just as foolish.