©2002 Pastor Tom Miles

2 Corinthians Chapter Twelve

Chapter 12 is a carry-over of the two previous chapters dealing with the same general subject matter. The apostle continues to defend against charges from the Corinthians.  These charges it seems have to deal with his being an apostle.  This chapter helps to show us or give us understanding as to why Paul suffered so much persecution.  We will also get an understanding as to why Paul seemed to take pleasure in his afflictions suffered in the name of Christ.  This chapter also looks at Paul's revelations and visions.

2 Corinthians 12:1-6 Paul begins telling about visions and revelations even though he deems it not profitable and boastful to do so.  He begins by talking of someone, most likely himself from when he was stoned and left for dead (Acts 14:19-20) who was caught up to the third heaven or Paradise.  Paul says he heard words that were inexpressible and not permissible by man to speak.  He goes on to say that the only way he would boast would be to boast of this one and his infirmities but not of himself.  Paul is greatly concerned that people might look upon him too highly and this is why he does not want to boast of himself.

2 Corinthians 12:7 Verse seven talks about the ‘thorn in the flesh’.  Paul says that he was given a ‘thorn in the flesh’ so he would not become lifted up above what he should be.  He calls the ‘thorn in the flesh’ a messenger of Satan intended to overwhelm or humble him so he would not exalt himself because of the greatness of his revelations.  Father, keep me humble at all times.  Let my words be words that exalt and lift You up -- not lift me up!

2 Corinthians 12:8-10 Paul pleads with the Lord for the removal of this ‘thorn in the flesh’ three times so that it might depart from him.  The Lord replies to Paul saying, “My grace is sufficient for you” and “my strength is made perfect in weakness.”  Because of this revelation from the Lord Paul boasted in his infirmities believing that in his weakness Christ's power would make him strong.  When I am weak dear Lord make me strong let me boast in my infirmities for it is only You that I desire to exalt and glorify!

2 Corinthians 12:11-13 Here in the next few verses we see that he was duty-bound to participate in foolish boasting with the ones that should be commending him for he was just as worthy as the most eminent apostles.  Paul says while with them he accomplished signs, wonders, and great works, which are the signs of an apostle.  The only mistake he seems to have made was in not being a financial burden to them.  The only complaint that could be levied against him that he could think of was his failure to seek support from them like he did the other churches.  And for this he said he was wrong.

2 Corinthians 12:14-15 Paul's love for the Corinthians is shown in this being his third time to come to them.  And in doing so he again says he will not be a burden to them.  He tells them that he does not seek their possessions and material goods but instead he seeks their hearts and souls.  It is their Spiritual life that Paul is most concerned with and like a parent will take care of their child--Paul will gladly take care of them by giving of self to reach their souls.  Paul says that in all he has done it is has been for the edification of their souls unto the Lord.  Father, let me love the people in a manner that cares so deeply for their souls and hearts.  Give me constantly a burden for the lost and hurting, and a burden also for the continuing growth of the Believer!

2 Corinthians 12:16-19 As Paul expresses his love in the last few verses of this chapter it burdens him that some have looked upon him as being one of deceitfulness and trickery.  Paul questions whether any of the brethren he sent to visit them caused disadvantage to come to them.  All things that he does is for their edification and it is because of his great love for them that he continues to write and send others to them.  If he didn't care so much for them he would not give so much of his love and time to them risking even life for them.

2 Corinthians 12:20-21 Paul boldly tells them he is worried that when he comes to visit there will be dissension amongst the Believers and all types of strife and bickering will abound.  He says his fears are that many will not have repented or be repentant of their sins and this hurts his heart.  His greatest fear is for the welfare of their souls, which shows his great love for them.

Father, in all I do let me do it for the glorification of Your kingdom and for the edification of the Believers.  Keep within me a love for all people--Believers and non-believers.  Let me find joy in sharing the Gospel at all times.  Father, touch the heart of the people with Your truth and love.  Pour out Your grace unto us showing us that YOUR GRACE is sufficient and YOUR POWER gives us strength in our weakness in Jesus name Amen!

Where Jesus is Lord!
Living Vine Ministries
Pastor Thomas Miles

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