William Burkitt Notes and Observations - 2 Corinthians 10:18 - 10:18

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William Burkitt Notes and Observations - 2 Corinthians 10:18 - 10:18


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This Chapter Verse Commentaries:

Three things are here observable, 1. The proneness which is in human nature to admire, applaud and commend itself. Man is a proud piece of flesh, and a little apprehended excellency in himself presently puffs him up, and he looks big with conceit: "Tis rare to see a man rich in gifts, and poor in spirit; poverty of spirit is better than all the riches of gifts: yea, it is the truest riches of grace.

Observe, 2. Though a man is prone to commend and admire himself, yet self-commendation is no just prize, but rather disparagement, a shameful indication both of pride and folly. He that commendeth himself, is not approved either of God or wise men; the same word in Hebrew, signifies to praise ourselves and to be foolish because there is no greater evidence of folly than self-commendation; yet sometimes, a wise man is forced to boast of his own performances, rather in a way of self-vindication, than by way of self-commendation.

Observe, 3. That it is God's approbation, and not our own commendation, which is matter of true praise and real honour. When God and conscience bear witness to our sincerity, we need neither our own nor other's commendation; the open testimongy of God, and the silent applause of our own conscience, is above all commendations whatsoever.