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
And said, Remember now, O Lord, I beseech thee, how I have walked before thee in truth and with a …
Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe:
The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the …
Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely …
And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing …
And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him.
Now therefore fear the Lord, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your …
But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was …
Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with …
For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord.