2 Corinthians 5:12

For we commend not ourselves -For" is omitted by the best editors, and its omission clears the sense. "We are not endeavouring once more to recommend ourselves to you by what we have said. (For -again" see note on ch. 2 Corinthians 3:1.) That is quite needless (ch. 2 Corinthians 3:2-3). We simply give you an opportunity of -answering the fool according to his folly," of shewing to those who judge by the appearance only, that we, too, have some fruits at least of our ministry to shew."

occasion to glory The word here translated -to glory" means, here as elsewhere in the N. T. (see note on ch. 2 Corinthians 1:14 and on 1 Corinthians 5:6), cause of glorying or boasting. According to its strict meaning (which probably ought not to be pressed here) it should be rendered -supplying you with a source whence you may find a cause of boasting on our behalf."

in appearance Literally, in face, i.e. in that which is visible. See ch. 2 Corinthians 10:7.

and not in heart Who have no ground for boasting in the purity of their motives, because self-interest is the only spring of their actions. Cf. 1 Corinthians 3. throughout, and ch. 2 Corinthians 11:12-13; Galatians 4:17.