Definition: I am become a fool in glorying; ye have compelled me: for I ought to have been commended of you: for in nothing am I behind the very chiefest apostles, though I be nothing.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from 2 Corinthians 12:11. It’s a really complex passage, but we can understand it as a vulnerable moment for Paul. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: Paul is admitting that he's feeling overwhelmed and perhaps even foolish because of the attention he’s received – and maybe even the expectation of attention – surrounding his ministry. He’s acknowledging that he’s been pushed to a point where he feels inadequate and doesn't feel worthy of praise. Let’s unpack it word by word: “I am become a fool in glorying…” This is the core of the issue. Paul isn’t saying he completely lost his mind; he's saying he’s been tricked or misled into thinking he's more important than he actually is. He’s admitting to being fooled by the situation. “Fool” here doesn’t necessarily mean a crazy person, but someone who’s misinterpreting things or focusing on the wrong things. “ye have compelled me: for I ought to have been commended of you…” This part emphasizes that they – his listeners – are the ones pushing him and making him feel this way. He's recognizing that people are influencing his perception and encouraging him to believe he deserves praise. “though I be nothing” This is the crucial part. He’s admitting that, despite being a strong and capable apostle (a messenger of God), he feels like he isn’t worthy of praise. He's acknowledging a feeling of insignificance. What it means in bigger picture: This verse speaks to several things: The Pressure of Ministry: Paul is recognizing that being a missionary and an apostle – essentially, spreading God’s message - can be incredibly demanding and put a lot of pressure on him. He's feeling the weight of expectation. Self-Doubt: It shows a moment of self-doubt and perhaps even a bit of despair. He's struggling with his own worthiness. A Plea for Understanding: Paul is asking for understanding and perhaps forgiveness from his listeners. He’s admitting he was misled, and he wants them to see him as more than just what they think he is. In essence, the verse is a moment of vulnerability where Paul acknowledges that he's been influenced by others to feel less worthy than he should be. --- Important Note: This is a challenging passage for many people because it deals with themes of pride and self-doubt. It’s often seen as a reminder to not let external opinions define our worth or importance. Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific biblical story or figure?