READING: 2 Corinthians 12
Turning his attention to the unrepentant minority who continued to challenge his authority, Paul defends his apostolic calling and credentials (10–13). His meekness in their presence does not minimize his authority (10), and though he is loath to boast about them, his knowledge, honesty, achievements, persecutions, visions, and miraculous signs all vindicate his apostolic claims (11:1–12:13). He concludes by telling of his plans for a third visit and warns the Corinthians to repent before he comes (12:14–13:14).
Paul’s vision of being caught up into Paradise led to his thorn in the flesh as God’s means of keeping him weak so that he could minister out of Christ’s power rather than his own.
Prayer
Lord, Your grace is sufficient for me, for power is perfected in weakness. May I walk and serve through dependence on Your power rather than on my own resources.
Meditation passage: verses 9–10, 19