S. Michael Houdmann Supporter Got Questions Ministries

The phrase "boast in the Lord" is found in 1 Corinthians 1:31, where Paul, quoting Jeremiah 9:24, says, "Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord." It may seem strange to think of boasting as good;...

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July 01 2013 • 2 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jeffrey Johnson Supporter

What does it mean to boast in the Lord?

Boasting in the Lord means shifting focus from self-accomplishment to God's greatness, acknowledging Him as the source of all strength, wisdom, and righteousness. Rooted in Jeremiah 9:23-24 and 1 Corinthians 1:31, it is the act of giving God glory for His attributes, works, and promises rather than bragging on personal achievements, wealth, or power.

Some aspects of boasting in the Lord include:

Shifting Focus from Self to God: It is the opposite of pride. It means admitting personal weakness and relying on God's strength, rather than self-sufficiency.

Celebrating His Attributes: Instead of boasting in personal wisdom or strength, one boasts in knowing and understanding God—specifically His steadfast love, justice, and righteousness.

Recognising His Work: It involves giving credit to God for what He has done, is currently doing, and has promised to do in one's life, such as salvation and spiritual growth.

Some Meanings of Boasting in the Lord

Redirecting Glory: It means acknowledging that your talents, successes, and even your salvation are gifts of grace rather than personal achievements.

Identifying with Christ: It involves finding your primary identity and worth in your relationship with God rather than in social status or worldly accomplishments.

Boasting in Weakness: Following the Apostle Paul's example means being open about your limitations so that God's power is more clearly displayed through them.

A Joyful Exaltation: It is a "happy act of the soul" in which a person's joy in God overflows into vocal praise and into sharing His "wonderful works" with others.

Boast in the Lord" Bible Verses:

Psalm 34:2 (KJV/NIV): "My soul shall make her boast in the LORD; the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad."

1 Corinthians 1:31 (NIV): "Therefore, as it is written: 'Let the one who boasts boast in the Lord.'"

Jeremiah 9:24 (ESV): "...but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the LORD who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth..."

2 Corinthians 12:9: Focuses on boasting in weakness so that Christ's power may rest on the believer. 

Conclusion

Meaning of 2 Corinthians 12:9:

God promises to give the apostle Paul the strength he needs to cope with his trials and limitations.

"My undeserved kindness is sufficient for you." God's answer to Paul's repeated prayers can also be rendered "My kindness is all you need." In other words, God's undeserved kindness would be enough to help Paul cope with his trials. How so? The word translated "undeserved kindness," or "grace," describes a free and unmerited gift given generously by God. Paul's writings show that he benefited greatly from God's undeserved kindness. Although Paul was a former persecutor, God gave him the strength to change his behaviour and help others become Christians. (1 Corinthians 15:9, 10; 1 Timothy 1:12-14) 

The apostle Paul severely reproved the Corinthian congregation, showing that there was no room for them to be boasting in anyone but God and what he had done for them. (1Co 1:28, 29; 4:6, 7) 

Jesus' half-brother James went even further in condemning those who boasted about certain worldly projects they were intending to carry out, telling them:

James 4:16: But now ye glory in your vauntings: all such glorying is evil.

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