Paul writes about bragging in chapters 11 and 12 of his second letter to the church at Corinth.
Most people believe all bragging is bad.
But Paul says, “Boasting is necessary” 2 Corinthians 12:1. That’s unexpected: BOASTING IS NECESSARY.
But the next words are, “It is not profitable.”
This is a complicated subject. But understand Paul’s purpose: He “boasts” about his ministry in order to steer Corinthians away from false teachers and back to him. Paul recounts his resume so they will listen to him—because his teaching will draw them closer to Jesus.
Paul elaborates on his record of suffering persecution and seeing visions. In fact, the man has witnessed so much in Heaven that God sent an affliction to keep him “from exalting himself.”
God sent what many believe was an eye disease to keep him humble. Never let it be said that God is not concerned about the humility in your heart. Never believe that God will tolerate your sin of pride.
Paul explains that he has seen amazing things, “extraordinary revelations” and heard “inexpressible words a man is not allowed to speak.”
“Therefore, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me, to keep me from exalting myself. Concerning this, three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But He said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness’” 2 Corinthians 12:7-9.
Paul complains about his eyes, admits his health was a burden for some of the churches, and notes that critics complain Paul’s “physical presence is weak and his public speaking is despicable” 2 Corinthians 10:10. However, there is no record of Paul becoming prideful about the visions and causing God to punish him. Instead, the Lord gave him the thorn IN ADVANCE to ensure the apostle would not become arrogant AT SOME FUTURE TIME.
IF GOD BROUGHT THIS THORN TO PAUL, WE NEED TO GUARD AGAINST PRIDE IN OUR OWN HEARTS!
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