What happensPermalink
Continuing his “foolish” boasting, Paul speaks of a man—clearly himself—who was caught up to the third heaven and saw what words cannot describe. Yet to keep him from pride, God gave him a “thorn in the flesh” and would not remove it. Paul now boasts gladly in his weaknesses so that Christ’s power may rest on him. The “signs and wonders” done among the Corinthians confirm that God’s power truly worked through him. Like a father for his children, he refuses to burden them.
Why it mattersPermalink
Paul’s vision and thorn reveal the heart of his gospel: divine strength shines most brightly through human frailty. True apostleship is measured not by triumph but by grace.
Key versePermalink
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.