2 Corinthians 12:1
“It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord.”
Context:To understand the verse better, it’s important to consider the context of the passage. In the preceding chapters of 2 Corinthians, Paul defends his authority and apostleship against false teachers who were challenging his credibility. Paul wanted to set the record straight and remind the Corinthians of his genuine calling and experiences as an apostle of Christ.
The reluctance to boast:Paul begins verse 1 by saying, “It is not expedient for me doubtless to glory.” Here, “glory” refers to boasting or bragging about spiritual experiences. Paul acknowledges that it is not beneficial or necessary for him to boast about the extraordinary visions and revelations he had received from the Lord. He didn’t want to draw attention to himself or elevate his own importance. Instead, he wanted to direct the focus on the Lord and the truth of the Gospel.
Visions and revelations of the Lord:Paul then states, “I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord.” He indicates that he will now proceed to speak about the visions and revelations he received from the Lord. By mentioning this, Paul acknowledges that he has had extraordinary encounters with the Lord and has been entrusted with divine revelations.
The purpose of sharing visions and revelations:In the subsequent verses (2 Corinthians 12:2-6), Paul describes one specific vision in which he was caught up to the third heaven and heard “unspeakable words.” He shares this account not to boast but to validate his apostleship and authenticate the message he preaches. His aim is to demonstrate that he is not inferior to the false teachers who were challenging him.
Humility and dependence on God’s grace:Throughout the passage, Paul maintains a humble and dependent attitude. In verses 7-10, he speaks of a thorn in the flesh, a weakness or affliction that he was given to keep him from becoming conceited. This thorn served as a reminder of his dependence on God’s grace and power. Paul concludes by stating, “Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ’s sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong” (2 Corinthians 12:10, KJV).
