2 Corinthians 10:11-18

Let such people realize that what we say by word in letters when we are absent, is the same as what we are in action when present. We do not have the audacity to put ourselves in the same class or compare ourselves with some who [supply testimonials to] commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they lack wisdom and behave like fools. We, on the other hand, will not boast beyond our proper limit, but [will keep] within the limits of our commission (territory, authority) which God has granted to us as a measure, which reaches and includes even you. We are not overstepping the limits of our province, as if we did not [legitimately] reach to you, for we were the [very] first to come even as far as you with the good news of Christ. We do not go beyond our proper limit, boasting in the work of other men, but we have the hope that as your faith [in Christ and His divine power] continues to grow, our field among you may be greatly expanded [but still within the limits of our commission], so that we may preach the gospel even in the lands beyond you, but not to boast in work already accomplished in another one’s field of activity. However, “LET HIM WHO BOASTS BOAST IN THE LORD.” [Jer 9:24] For it is not he who commends and praises himself who is approved [by God], but it is the one whom the Lord commends and praises.