Seeing that many boast after the flesh, I will boast also.
Read Chapter 11
Ambrosiaster
AD 400
Paul is saying this because some Jewish believers were claiming superiority as children of Israel. To glorify oneself according to the flesh is to claim nobility of the flesh. The Jews claimed this because they are the children of Abraham, who believed in God. Commentary on Paul’s Epistles.
Seeing that many glory after the flesh. In things merely outward and carnal, as, e.g, in birth, riches, Wisdom of Solomon , circumcision, having Hebrew parents—of all which these false apostles boast. Hence I too will glory in them (Chrysostom). Cf. x2 , note
What is, after the flesh? Of things external, of high birth, of wealth, of wisdom, of being circumcised, of Hebrew ancestry, of popular renown. And behold wisdom. He sets down those things which he shows to be nothings , and then, folly also. For if to glory in what are really good things be folly, much more is it so [to glory in] those that are nothing. And this is what he calls, not after the Lord. For it is no advantage to be a Hebrew, or any such like things soever. 'Think not, therefore, that I set these down as a virtue; no; but because those men boast I also am compelled to institute my comparison on these points.' Which he does also in another place, saying, If any man thinks that he may trust in the flesh, I more: Philippians 3:4 and there, it is on their account that trusted in this. Just as if one who had come of an illustrious race but had chosen a philosophic life, should see others priding themselves greatly on being well-born; and being desirious of taking down their van...
What are these worldly things Paul will boast of? His birth, his wealth, his wisdom, his being circumcised, his Hebrew ancestry and his popular reputation. Of course he knew that none of these things mattered in the slightest, which is why he called this way of speaking foolish.
