Keraia
2 Corinthians 12

2 Corinthians 12:6

Paul’s Thorn and God’s Grace · 2 Corinthians 12:5–10
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Translations

Modern
Even if I wanted to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be speaking the truth. But I refrain, so no one will credit me with more than he sees in me or hears from me,
Traditional
For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me.
Literal
For if I should want to boast, I will not be a fool, for I will be speaking the truth. But I refrain, lest anyone should reckon to me above what he sees in me or anything he hears of me,
Latin
Nam etsi voluero gloriari, non ero insipiens: veritatem enim dicam: parco autem, ne quis me existimet supra id quod videt in me, aut aliquid audit ex me.

Original

Greek
English
Even if I wanted to boast, I would not be a fool, because I would be speaking the truth. But I refrain, so no one will credit me with more than he sees in me or hears from me,

Notes

2 Corinthians 12:5–7

Paul could talk about his experience (12:2–4), but it did not give him confidence in his ministry. He never uses mystical experiences to prove his apostolic authority. His life and message must be the proof. Instead, he talks about his weaknesses (11:23–33).

2 Corinthians 12:1–7

Paul's accusers in Corinth claimed he lacked ecstatic spiritual experiences. They said he was not a mystic, just an ordinary person without impressive gifts (see 10:10). Although Paul's authority did not rely on visions and revelations from the Lord, he disclosed that he did have such experiences.

2 Corinthians 10:1–13:13

  • In this section, Paul defends his role as an apostle.

  • These chapters present several issues due to a noticeable change in tone and style. Chapters 1–9 express joy from sinners reconciling with God and the Corinthians reconciling with Paul. However, from this point, Paul becomes defensive. These chapters contain harsh words, bitter accusations, passionate irony, and rebuke. The significant shift at 10:1 has led to various explanations:

    1. These chapters might be a separate letter, possibly the “severe letter” sent earlier to Corinth (2:3–4; 7:8–9).

    2. It could be that while most church members obeyed the call for reconciliation, a rebellious minority remained, and Paul addressed these four chapters to them.

    3. More likely, a new situation arose after Titus reported restored harmony (7:5–16). In this case, some anti-Paul missionaries arrived in Corinth and started a strong campaign against the apostolic message of good news (see 11:4, 13–15). They claimed Paul was not a true apostle or even a true Christian (10:7) and that he had no right to bring the gospel message to Corinth, as it was their territory (10:15–16). They brought a foreign message (11:4) and had a domineering attitude. In short, they were doing Satan’s work (11:13–15). Paul, worried about this new situation, reasserts his apostolic authority and writes in a way he dislikes (11:1, 16–17; 12:1) by boasting about his weaknesses and trials. Paul’s apostolic authority is genuine and powerful, yet it is guided by the love shown by the crucified Jesus (10:1; 13:4–10).

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Paul the Apostle Pride Second Letter to the Corinthians Spirit of God

Topics

Humility: General Scriptures Concerning Tact in Preaching Truth: God's Servants should Speak Truth: Ministers should Speak