FocusGrace sufficient in weakness
Connection to the wholePaul refuses to rest his standing on extraordinary revelation and describes the Lord's answer concerning weakness and sufficient grace.
interpretation 2 Corinthians 12:7
KJVAnd lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.
Read it in context
Revelation and the thorn
Start reading at 2 Corinthians 12:1 (2 Corinthians 12:1 to 2 Corinthians 12:10).
An editorial reading unit, not a claim that the surrounding context stops here. Book background below applies to the shared passage; individual verses may need more specific explanation.
Paul refuses to rest his standing on extraordinary revelation and describes the Lord's answer concerning weakness and sufficient grace.
- 12:1 It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord.
- 12:2 I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven.
- 12:3 And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;)
- 12:4 How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.
- 12:5 Of such an one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine infirmities.
- 12:6 For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me.
- 12:7 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.
- 12:8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.
- 12:9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
- 12:10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.
Who
- Who wrote the book? Paul the apostle is the principal author; Timothy is named with him in the greeting. Biblical references: 2 Corinthians 1:1. stated in the text
- Who was present or being addressed in this passage? In the surrounding chapter context (2 Corinthians 10:1–13:14): Paul answers challenges to his ministry among the Corinthians and warns the church before his next visit. stated in the text
- Who was the book written to? The church of God at Corinth and all the saints throughout Achaia. Biblical references: 2 Corinthians 1:1. stated in the text
What
- What is the topic of this reading unit? Revelation and the thorn. Read 2 Corinthians 12:1 through 2 Corinthians 12:10 as a connected unit. interpretation
- How does it contribute to the book? Paul refuses to rest his standing on extraordinary revelation and describes the Lord's answer concerning weakness and sufficient grace. interpretation
When
- When are the events or message set? The letter reflects earlier exchanges, changed travel plans, and a collection in progress. A precise date requires reconstruction beyond a dated statement in the letter. book background
Where
- What is the book’s geographic setting? Corinth and the saints in Achaia are addressed; Macedonia and other ministry locations appear in the account. book background
- Where does the context start? This passage sits in Revelation and the thorn (2 Corinthians 12:1 to 2 Corinthians 12:10). Start reading at 2 Corinthians 12:1. An editorial reading unit, not a claim that the surrounding context stops here. Book background below applies to the shared passage; individual verses may need more specific explanation.
How
- How does this book connect with Jesus Christ? Paul explains ministry through the death and life of Jesus, reconciliation in Christ, and power displayed in weakness. These themes do not make suffering proof that every minister's claim is valid. See 2 Corinthians 4:5, 2 Corinthians 4:10, 2 Corinthians 5:19, 2 Corinthians 12:9. interpretation
- How should this book guide our response? Practice integrity, generosity, and openness to correction. Assess ministry by faithfulness to Christ rather than outward impressiveness alone. interpretation
Cited: 2 Corinthians 12:1, 2 Corinthians 12:10, 2 Corinthians 4:5, 2 Corinthians 4:10, 2 Corinthians 5:19, 2 Corinthians 12:9
Who wrote it, and how we know
Paul the apostle
Named in Scripture
What Scripture saysPaul names himself in the opening verse.
2 Corinthians 1:1
Early traditionUniform tradition names Paul.
Related passages
- lest 2 Cor 10:5 2 Cor 11:20 Deut 8:14 Deut 17:20 2 Chr 26:16 2 Chr 32:25-26,31 Dan 5:20 1 Tim 3:6
- a thorn Gen 32:25,31 Judg 2:3 Ezek 28:24 Gal 4:13
- the messenger Job 2:7 Luke 13:16 1 Cor 5:5
- to buffet Matt 26:67 1 Cor 4:11
Cross references from CrossReferences-org (CC BY 4.0).
Macro-Structure
See how this passage fits the chapter and the book.
2 Corinthians 12
Paul and Timothy address the church of God at Corinth and the saints in Achaia. The letter explains Paul's ministry and suffering, appeals for reconciliation and generosity, and confronts challenges to his apostolic service.
2 Corinthians 1:1 2 Corinthians 1:3 2 Corinthians 5:20
Care for the Corinthians
2 Corinthians 12:11–18FocusService without exploitation
Connection to the wholePaul defends the sincerity of his and Titus' conduct and explains that he seeks the people themselves rather than their possessions.
interpretation Concern before the visit
2 Corinthians 12:19–21FocusRepentance and the church's condition
Connection to the wholeThe defense ends with anxiety over unresolved sin, preparing the warnings and examination of the final chapter.
interpretation Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.
2 Corinthians
Paul and Timothy address the church of God at Corinth and the saints in Achaia. The letter explains Paul's ministry and suffering, appeals for reconciliation and generosity, and confronts challenges to his apostolic service.
2 Corinthians 1:1 2 Corinthians 1:3 2 Corinthians 5:20
Comfort and Paul's relationship to the church
2 Corinthians 1:1–2:13FocusSuffering, plans, and restoration
Connection to the wholePaul describes comfort in affliction and explains his dealings with Corinth, including forgiveness and his concern over the church's response.
interpretation The ministry entrusted to Paul
2 Corinthians 2:14–7:16FocusNew covenant, weakness, and reconciliation
Connection to the wholePaul explains the character of his ministry and appeals to the Corinthians, ending with relief over their response to his correction.
interpretation The collection
2 Corinthians 8:1–9:15FocusWilling generosity
Connection to the wholeThe example of other believers and of Christ supports an appeal for willing, responsible giving that supplies need and results in thanksgiving.
interpretation FocusDiscernment, weakness, and examination
Connection to the wholePaul answers his opponents, explains strength in weakness, and prepares the church for a visit marked by accountability and restoration.
interpretation Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.