But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. His own work - not merely his own opinion of himself.
Have rejoicing in himself alone. Translate, 'have his matter for glorying [to kaucheema (G2745); distinct from kaucheesis (G2746), the act of glorying] in regard to himself х eis (G1519) heauton (G1438)] alone, and not in regard to the other'-namely, his neighbour-by comparing himself with whom he fancied he has matter for boasting as superior (1 Corinthians 4:5). Not that really a man by looking to "himself alone" is likely to find cause for glorying. Nay, in Galatians 6:5 he speaks of a "burden," not of matter for glorying, as what really belongs to each. But he refers to the idea those whom he censures had of themselves: they thought they had cause for 'glorying' in themselves; but it arose from self-conceited comparison of themselves with others, instead of looking at home. The only true glorying is in the Lord, the Giver of a good conscience, through the cross of Christ; and in our weaknesses, which enlist for us His omnipotence (2 Corinthians 10:17; 2 Corinthians 11:30; 2 Corinthians 12:9).