2 Corinthians 12:1–21 (2 of 3)
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:: Paul’s Visions and His Thorn ::
8 Three times I pleaded with the Lord about this, that it should leave me. 9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 11 I have been a fool! You forced me to it, for I ought to have been commended by you. For I was not at all inferior to these super-apostles, even though I am nothing. 12 The signs of a true apostle were performed among you with utmost patience, with signs and wonders and mighty works. 13 For in what were you less favored than the rest of the churches, except that I myself did not burden you? Forgive me this wrong! 14 Here for the third time I am ready to come to you. And I will not be a burden, for I seek not what is yours but you. For children are not obligated to save up for their parents, but parents for their children.
:: Parallel ::
:: 2 Corinthians 12:8–14 :: James 1:2-4 ::
James 1:2-4 aligns with 2 Corinthians 12:8-14 in its call to embrace trials for spiritual growth. Paul’s “thorn in the flesh” demonstrates God’s grace is sufficient, teaching humility and reliance on divine strength. James similarly emphasizes that trials produce steadfastness—spiritual endurance—refining believers’ faith. Challenges are not punishments but tools for perfection, maturing character into Christ-likeness. Both passages highlight God’s transformative power in weakness and struggle, urging believers to view suffering as a gateway to spiritual wholeness and deeper reliance on Him. In trials, God’s strength, not ours, carries us.
:: 2 Corinthians 12:9 ::
:: Q&A ::
1. What does Paul mean by his willingness to "spend and be spent" for the Corinthians, and why is this significant?
(2 Corinthians 12:15)
(2 Corinthians 12:15)
Answer: Paul expresses his deep love and commitment to the Corinthians. He is willing to sacrifice his own resources and energy for their well-being, demonstrating the selfless nature of his ministry.
2. Why does Paul stress that he will not be a burden to the Corinthians, and what does this reflect about his attitude toward their support?
(2 Corinthians 12:16)
(2 Corinthians 12:16)
Answer: Paul clarifies that he does not seek financial gain or personal advantage from the Corinthians, showing his desire to serve them out of love rather than for self-interest. This reflects his integrity and his focus on their spiritual growth.
3. How does Paul’s statement that he "urged Titus" to help the Corinthians reflect his concern for their spiritual well-being?
(2 Corinthians 12:18)
(2 Corinthians 12:18)
Answer: Paul’s action in sending Titus reflects his deep concern for the Corinthians’ spiritual health. By urging Titus to visit, he ensures they are guided in the right direction, emphasizing his commitment to their well-being.
4. What does Paul mean when he expresses fear that he may find the Corinthians in sin when he arrives, and why does he worry about it?
(2 Corinthians 12:20)
(2 Corinthians 12:20)
Answer: Paul is concerned that the Corinthians may still be living in sin, despite his efforts to teach and guide them. This worry stems from his responsibility as their apostle and his desire to see them spiritually mature and reconciled to God.
5. How does Paul’s desire to avoid grief and bring joy in his relationship with the Corinthians reflect his understanding of leadership and responsibility?
(2 Corinthians 12:21)
(2 Corinthians 12:21)
Answer: Paul’s desire to bring joy rather than grief reflects his pastoral heart. As a leader, he understands the weight of guiding people toward righteousness and wishes to see them grow in their faith, avoiding disappointment or sorrow in his role as their spiritual guide.
6. What do Paul’s concerns about the Corinthians’ behavior suggest about his perception of their spiritual maturity?
(2 Corinthians 12:21)
(2 Corinthians 12:21)
Answer: Paul’s concerns indicate that he is aware of the Corinthians’ ongoing struggles with sin. He hopes for their growth but fears that they may still be immature spiritually, which might lead to disappointment or grief upon his return.
7. Why might Paul be "afraid" that his visit could result in sorrow rather than joy, and how does this affect his pastoral heart?
(2 Corinthians 12:21)
(2 Corinthians 12:21)
Answer: Paul is afraid because he wants his relationship with the Corinthians to be a source of joy, not sorrow. His pastoral heart is sensitive to the spiritual state of those he shepherds, and he fears that unresolved sin might cause him to be disappointed in them, affecting his ability to rejoice with them.
:: 2 Corinthians 12:9 ::
Remember
“...My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”
Never forget
“For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
Amen
“I will not be a burden, for I seek not what is yours but you. For children are not obligated to save up for their parents, but parents for their children.”
Ask 2 Corinthians 12 Questions of Your Own
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:: 2 Corinthians 12:9 ::
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