Boasting In Weakness

2 Corinthians 12:1-10

Boasting In Weakness

2 Corinthians 12:1-10

Context:

Immediate

Larger

Future

2 Cor 12:1; 2 Cor 11:19

The issues in the Corinthian church

2 Tim 3:16,17; 2 Tim 4:3

Boasting In Weakness

2 Corinthians 12:1-10

Fame- Power- Health- Wealth- Beauty

Grace- Humility- Love- Servanthood- Generosity

I. Paul in the 3rd Person. 2 Cor 12:1-5

Boasting In Weakness

2 Corinthians 12:1-10

I. Paul in the 3rd Person. 2 Cor 12:1-5

Scripture encourages us to live with eternity in clear view—its values and prospects.

Realizing that we are “Stepping Heavenward.”

For Paul this perspective was important because…

Boasting In Weakness

2 Corinthians 12:1-10

I. Paul in the 3rd Person. 2 Cor 12:1-5

For Paul this perspective was important because…

His suffering — staggering.

His opposition — formidable.

His challenges — incredible.

Boasting In Weakness

2 Corinthians 12:1-10

II. Bridge from self to God. 2 Cor 12:6,7

Paul refused to let his reputation rest on personal experience—which is un-verifiable.

v. 7 Paul’s perspective

Paul sees this thorn as the work of God to build him up.

Also sees Satan at work to destroy him.

Boasting In Weakness

2 Corinthians 12:1-10

III. Paul’s request & God’s response. 2 Cor 12:8-10

God provided relief not by removal but by providing more grace.

Only the convinced believer can be joyful in suffering—for when suffering is endured “for Christ's’ sake” he/she has tapped into the divine secret that when I am weak then I am strong.

1. When I am helpless—God teaches me trust—By meeting my needs (not wants).

2. When God makes me wait –He is teaching me Patience.

3. By taking me out of my comfort zone—He is teaching me to walk by faith.

4. By letting consequences occur due to my choices (poor/wrong)—He is teaching biblical values.

5. By letting me fail and stumble—He teaches me wisdom.

6. By permitting pain and suffering—He teaches me humility.

7. By introducing challenging people into my life—He teaches me to be unselfish.