2 Corinthians 1:12
For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly sincerity, not with fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.
Study Note
Study Note
Paul grounds his ministry's integrity not in worldly wisdom but in 'the grace of God' — his conduct in simplicity and godly sincerity was the outward evidence of inward transformation. The verse functions as Paul's defense against accusations in Corinth that his ministry was inconsistent or manipulative, and it introduces the extended passage on his travel plans (1:15-2:4) as a test case of his transparent dealing. The 'testimony of our conscience' anticipates 2 Corinthians 5:11's 'manifest to your consciences' and suggests that Paul sees his own inner court as a secondary confirmation of what God's judgment will ultimately vindicate.
Other Translations
For our glorying is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in holiness and sincerity of God, not in fleshly wisdom but in the grace of God, we behaved ourselves in the world, and more abundantly to you-ward.
For our glorying is this: the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and sincerity of God, not in fleshly wisdom, but in the grace of God, we did conduct ourselves in the world, and more abundantly toward you;
For our glory is in this, in the knowledge which we have that our way of life in the world, and most of all in relation to you, has been holy and true in the eyes of God; not in the wisdom of the flesh, but in the grace of God.
Cross References
Now therefore fear the Lord, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your …
Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him.
But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.
Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more …
God forbid that I should justify you: till I die I will not remove mine integrity from me.
My righteousness I hold fast, and will not let it go: my heart shall not reproach me so long as …
I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?
Let thistles grow instead of wheat, and cockle instead of barley. The words of Job are ended.
O Lord my God, if I have done this; if there be iniquity in my hands;
Let the enemy persecute my soul, and take it; yea, let him tread down my life upon the earth, and …