Paul's Vision and His Thorn
2 Corinthians 12:1-21
- What did it mean to the original reader or original audience?
Summarize the main story: Describe the events and context of the chapter in your own words.
Review and retell the story.
INITIAL SUMMARY:
2 Corinthians Chapter 12: Paul discusses his spiritual experiences, including a vision of the third heaven, emphasizing that he will only boast about his weaknesses to highlight Christ's power. He received a "thorn in the flesh" to prevent pride, and despite pleading for its removal, he accepted God's assurance that His grace is sufficient. Paul expresses concern for the Corinthians, feeling he has been treated foolishly despite his efforts to demonstrate true apostolic signs. He plans to visit them again, emphasizing that he seeks their well-being rather than their possessions. Paul worries about potential discord and unrepentant sin among them, fearing he may be humbled upon his return. He desires their spiritual growth and unity, urging them to reflect on their behavior and relationships.
OUTLINE
2 CORINTHIANS 12
Paul describes his experience of being “caught up into the third heaven” and talks about his thorn in the flesh, which God allowed to keep him humble. He writes about some of his concerns for the Corinthians.
I. Paul and the Third Heaven (12:1–10)
A. The vision of the apostle (12:1–6)
1. Where he went (12:1–3): He was suddenly transported to paradise.
2. What he heard (12:4–6): He heard things so astounding that he cannot describe them in earthly language.
B. The vexation of the apostle (12:7)
1. What he received (12:7a): Satan inflicted Paul with a thorn in the flesh to torment him.
2. Why he received it (12:7b): God permitted the Devil to do this to keep Paul from pride.
C. The victory of the apostle (12:8–10)
1. Paul’s request (12:8): Three times he begged the Lord to take the thorn in his flesh away.
2. God’s refusal (12:9): Each time the Lord responded, “My gracious favor is all you need.”
3. Paul’s realization (12:10): “When I am weak, then I am strong.”
II. Paul and the Third Trip (12:11–21): Paul talks about his planned third visit to the Corinthian church.
A. His reminder (12:11–13): Contrary to what his enemies say, Paul reminds the Corinthians that his previous miracles performed among them demonstrate that he is a true apostle.
B. His relationship (12:14–19): Paul likens himself to a loving father and the Corinthian believers to unloving children.
C. His regret (12:20–21): Paul is apprehensive that he will find the church still filled with pride, gossip, division, and disorder upon his arrival.
- God is ... What do we learn about God in this passage?
- We are ... What do we learn about people in this passage?
- I will ... What has the Holy Spirit revealed to us in this passage? How can I apply it to my life this week?
- What transformative move needs to be made?
- You can ... Who do you know who needs to hear this? Feel free to share with others by social media links at the bottom of this.
Take Away Challenges
What has the Holy Spirit revealed to you in this passage? How will you apply it to your life this week?
Whom do you know who needs to hear this?
What is God bringing to your attention in this discussion? What beliefs, thoughts, or actions need to be addressed or changed?
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