A Thorn in the Flesh (2Cor 12:7) Intro: What was Paul's "thorn in the flesh?" "I generally find that each expositor has selected that particular thorn which had pierced his own bosom" (Charles Spurgeon).
Exposition 1. What was it like? Painful; hard for him to bear; drove him to several urgent prayers; left him weak.
2. Where did it come from? "A messenger of Satan." Also from the Lord, as Paul says twice that it was given "lest I should be exalted above measure."
3. Why was it given? Gen 50:20
Application: Are we subject to the same temptations and weaknesses as Paul? 1. His danger is also our danger. Calvin: "Other vices have a connection with evil deeds, but this [pride] is to be dreaded in connection with the best actions."
2. Paul's need is also our need. Barnes: "Of this sin, he who lives nearest to God may be in most special danger; and he who is most eminent in piety should feel that he also occupies a position where the enemy will approach him in a sly and subtle manner, and where he is in peculiar danger of a fall" (on 2Cor 12:7).
3. Paul's experience will also be our experience. Even though we pray for strength, God desires weakness. Verse 9, "My strength is made perfect in weakness."
Conclusion 1. The painful discipline that I endure is intended by God for my good. 2. The painful discipline must be necessary (see Lam 3:33, Heb 12:6-11). 3. Each of us can say, in the meantime, there is grace.
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