2 Corinthians 12:7
And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.
2 Corinthians 12:7 (KJV)
Context
In 2 Corinthians, Paul defends his apostleship against false teachers who question his authority and ministry. In this section, Paul speaks of a remarkable vision or revelation he received from God. However, to prevent him from becoming prideful due to these extraordinary revelations, God allowed a “thorn in the flesh,” which Paul describes as a messenger of Satan.
Paul mentions that he received an abundance of revelations from God. These revelations likely refer to mystical encounters or divine insights granted to Paul, which were extraordinary and surpassing what others had experienced.
Meaning
The phrase “exalted above measure” means being overmuch elated in his mind, and swelled with a vain conceit of himself. Paul had not only one or two, or a few, but an abundance of revelations; and these, as everything does but grace, tended to lift up his mind, to stir up the pride of his heart.
The “thorn in the flesh” is described as “the messenger of Satan to buffet me.” The Greek word for “buffet” (colaphizet in the Latin Vulgate) means to strike with the fist, to torment, or to harass. The exact nature of this thorn is not explicitly mentioned, leading to various interpretations. Some scholars suggest it could have been a physical ailment, a persistent temptation, opposition from adversaries, or any form of personal weakness or limitation.
Paul describes the thorn in the flesh as a “messenger of Satan.” This indicates that the affliction he faced was allowed by God, but its origin was ultimately from Satan. It serves as a reminder that even though Satan may attempt to harm or hinder believers, God can still work through such circumstances for His purposes.
The primary purpose of the thorn in the flesh was to keep Paul humble. It prevented him from becoming overly proud or boasting in his spiritual experiences and revelations. The thorn served as a reminder of his human weakness and the need to rely on God’s strength.
Biblical connections
The immediate context continues in verse 8, where Paul pleads with the Lord three times to remove this thorn, and in verse 9, where God responds that His grace is sufficient. The verse shows a divine paradox: the abundance of revelations could have led to pride, so a painful affliction was given to keep Paul humble.
Application
This verse highlights important spiritual principles:
Humility before God: Despite receiving extraordinary revelations, Paul acknowledges his limitations and the need to remain humble. It is a reminder that pride can hinder one’s spiritual growth and relationship with God.
God’s sovereignty: This verse illustrates God’s sovereignty over both blessings and challenges in a believer’s life. He allowed the thorn in Paul’s flesh for a specific purpose, highlighting His ultimate control over all circumstances.
God’s power in weakness: The thorn in the flesh served as a reminder that Paul’s strength came from God. In his weakness, Paul found an opportunity to experience God’s power and grace more profoundly.
God’s purposes in suffering: While suffering is not pleasant, God can use it to refine our character, deepen our dependence on Him, and bring about His purposes. In Paul’s case, the thorn in the flesh served a redemptive purpose.
Reflection
The verse teaches that God may use painful circumstances, even those involving Satan’s opposition, to accomplish His purposes of keeping believers humble and dependent on His grace.
